Porsche’s new 911 GT4 R brings iconic 911 DNA to global GT4 racing
Porsche has officially unveiled the all-new 911 GT4 R, marking a major shift in the brand’s customer racing programme. For the first time, a Porsche built specifically for international GT4 competition is based on the legendary 911 platform, replacing the long-serving Cayman-based GT4 race cars.
The new machine is set to make its competition debut during the 2027 racing season and represents the next evolution of Porsche Motorsport’s customer racing ladder.
A new era for GT4
For nearly a decade, the 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport has been the weapon of choice for countless customer teams around the world. Now, Porsche is taking the GT4 category to the next level by combining the proven GT4 formula with the unmistakable character of the 911.
Built on the foundation of the current 992.2-generation 911 GT3 Cup car, the 911 GT4 R delivers more power, wider tracks and updated motorsport electronics compared with its Cayman predecessor. The goal is simple: improve drivability, consistency and outright pace while maintaining the accessibility that has made GT4 racing so popular.
Naturally aspirated power
Power comes from a high-revving 4.0-litre naturally aspirated flat-six derived from the 911 GT3. In unrestricted form, the engine produces up to 520 PS (382 kW) and 470 Nm of torque.
As with all GT4 machinery, final output will depend on each championship’s Balance of Performance regulations. The car is delivered with intake restrictors installed, reducing output to approximately 430 PS before BoP adjustments are applied.
A sequential six-speed dog gearbox with paddle shifters and a four-plate racing clutch handles power delivery, bringing the GT4 R closer than ever to Porsche’s Cup racing machinery.
Footage Porsche 911 GT4R on track
Developed specifically for GT4
Although it shares its DNA with the 911 GT3 Cup, the GT4 R has been engineered specifically to meet GT4 regulations. These modifications are designed to give customer teams greater flexibility while complying with GT4 technical regulations.
Key changes include:
- Five-bolt wheels instead of center-lock hubs
- Narrower wheel widths compared with the Cup car
- Dual-adjustable dampers
- Three selectable spring rates for easier circuit setup
Lightweight construction
Porsche has also focused heavily on weight reduction. The 911 GT4 R makes extensive use of natural-fibre reinforced composite materials throughout the bodywork and cockpit. Doors, aerodynamic components, the engine cover and several interior panels all utilise the sustainable composite material bonded with epoxy resin.
Aerodynamics remain closely related to the 911 Cup, with an adjustable rear wing offering 11 different settings. Inside, drivers are greeted by a modern motorsport cockpit featuring a 10.3-inch colour display, integrated GPS and data logging systems, giving teams everything they need for performance analysis during race weekends.
Porsche’s customer racing success continues
GT4 has become one of the fastest-growing categories in global motorsport, providing an important stepping stone between club racing and GT3 competition.Since entering the GT4 category in 2016, Porsche has built more than 1,500 Cayman-based customer race cars that have competed in championships across Europe, North America and Asia. The new 911 GT4 R now expands that successful customer racing portfolio with a platform many Porsche fans have long hoped to see in GT4 competition.
For aspiring drivers, it also creates a more seamless progression through Porsche Motorsport, from one-make racing into international GT4 championships while remaining behind the wheel of a 911. With its naturally aspirated flat-six, proven 911 underpinnings and race-developed technology, the new 911 GT4 R looks set to become one of the most exciting customer race cars Porsche has ever produced.
The countdown to its first competitive appearance in 2027 has officially begun.
Picture gallery Porsche 911 GT4R
Pictures courtesy Porsche AG
