Porsche is adding to its GT range with something many fans have requested: a more engaging, roof-down version of the GT3. This is the new 911 GT3 S/C, a light convertible that combines a naturally aspirated flat-six engine with a six-speed manual gearbox, offering a very pure driving experience within the 911 family.
This GT3 S/C isn’t a limited edition, unlike previous open-top GT 911s; it’s a fully produced car intended to give you the uncompromising nature of the GT3 along with the pleasure of driving a convertible.
The 911 GT3 S/C has a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine delivering 510 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. It’s only available with a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, really emphasizing it as a car for the driver.
Performance is what you’d anticipate from a GT3: 0 to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds, and a 194 mph top speed. However, the numbers aren’t the point here; it’s the feeling of driving. Porsche states the sound of the revving engine is even more noticeable with the roof down, and is especially noticeable as it approaches its 9,000 rpm limit.
For the first time, a GT3 has a fully automatic soft top, opening or closing in approximately 12 seconds while travelling at speeds up to 31 mph. Despite this extra complication, the GT3 S/C is still impressively light at 1,497 kg (around 3,300 lbs) because of extensive use of carbon fibre and magnesium parts.
This attention to weight reduction continues from the Porsche 911 S/T, with carbon fiber used for the hood, doors and wings, magnesium wheels and a light lithium-ion battery. Even the roof frame uses magnesium to keep the weight down.
The interior of the GT3 S/C stays with a simple, performance-oriented design. It’s strictly a two-seater, with sports seats as standard and carbon-fibre bucket seats available. Porsche has also retained some old-fashioned appeal with a proper rotary ignition key instead of a start button.
The digital dashboard includes a special “Track Screen” which removes unnecessary information and shows important performance data such as tyre pressures, oil temperatures, and gear-change lights.
The GT3 S/C borrows a lot from the standard GT3 and Touring versions, including its double-wishbone front suspension. This, along with wider tyres (255 at the front, 315 at the rear) and a lightweight chassis, gives the car a rare degree of agility and feel for a convertible, according to Porsche.
Aerodynamic improvements include a rear wing with a Gurney flap and improved airflow at the front thanks to integrated matrix LED headlights.
For those who want to be a little different, Porsche is offering a new Street Style Package with unique graphics, contrasting interior colours, and special interior finishes. And there’s even a Porsche Design chronograph watch only available to owners.
And in a slightly odd but sensible addition, Porsche has made a light 80-litre storage box for the rear of the cabin, giving this otherwise track-focused GT3 a little more practicality.
You can order the 2027 Porsche 911 GT3 S/C now, giving enthusiasts a new way to enjoy one of Porsche’s most famous performance cars, with the added enjoyment of driving in the open air.
For those who really love a car, this might be perfect: all the untamed, high-revving character of a GT3, and now with nothing separating you from the sound of that flat-six engine.
