Porsche 911 GT3 R (2010) first pictures

This is the Porsche 911 GT3 R, a hardcore racer powered by a 4.0-litre flat six and designed to compete in international FIA GT3 race series come 2010.

Yes. First there was the GT3, then the more powerful and wider-bodied GT3 RS, and then a Cup race version of that car. And now we have the R, also based on the GT3 RS but with massively flared bodywork - and more power.

While the GT3, RS and Cup make do with a production-spec 3.8-litre flat six, the R has a 4.0-litre boxer engine, meaning the output goes up from the RS and Cup’s 444bhp to 473bhp. That power is sent to the rear wheels by a six-speed sequential gearbox, and with no interior trim to speak of the kerbweight is kept down to just 1200kg.

There’s also ABS, traction control, and a system to blip the throttle to make R easier to drive than its Cup S predecessor. And for the vain race teams that must have the latest car, the R also has the LED rear lights fitted to all facelifted 997-generation 911s, just so everyone knows who has got the newest, nicest car in the pitlane.

The GT3 R will be built by Porsche’s motorsport department in Weissach, deliveries start in spring 2010, and the base price - without local taxes and VAT - is €279,000, or £249k.

By Ben Pulman