Top Gear takes a few back-to-basics 911s for a spin.
Porsche has been doing some interesting things over the last few years. The company has released special editions, which are not solely focused on GT models that have the fastest lap times. The Cayman GT4 was first, followed by the 911R and then finally, the GT3 which featured a traditional manual gearbox with three pedals and a traditional manual transmission. Porsche recently released two models with similar themes to its 911 lineup: the 911 GT3 Touring (and the 911 Carrera T).
GT3 Touring, a new package that was added to the GT3 this year, doesn’t soften the GT3’s intimidating demeanor but simplifies the driving experience for those who want to enjoy the ride more than losing a few seconds off their lap times. The GT3 Touring has a smaller rear wing than the base GT3. This is a major difference. The Touring model comes with only a 6-speed manual transmission. The Touring Pack still includes the 500 horsepower flat-six 4.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that revs at an incredible 9,000 rpm. Although it may appear a little more hidden, it is still a GT3 at heart.
The 911 Carrera T, on the other hand, is the same model name as the original 911 from the 1960s. The Carrera T, which is the lighter version of the base 911, follows the same pattern. The T eliminates the rear seats and has thinner rear glass. It is standard to remove the radio and navigation, but it is possible to put them back in as an option. The Carrera T comes with a lower ride height, a mechanical differential and a sports exhaust. Because of its lighter weight, acceleration times can be accelerated faster even with the base Carrera’s turbocharged 3.0-liter engine.
Porsche continues to make cars that are more about the journey and less about the destination, even though new sports cars are getting more powerful and smarter. The GT3 Touring is not available with the PDK. PDK is an option on the Carrera T. But do you really want to shift with flappy paddles instead of a stick? Pick your poison.