After nearly 50 years in production, the Porsche 911 seems to have as many racing variants as production models. The newest one announced is the 911 GT3 R, which, as the name implies, is targeted at GT3 class racing worldwide. The GT3 R is the followup to the GT3 Cup S model and Porsche has put effort into making the new racer both faster and easier to drive.

The GT3 R is based on the same platform as the most recent Cup car that was launched in September. It uses a larger naturally aspirated 4.0-litre version of the classic flat-six that cranks out 480 horsepower. Like other road racing 911s, this one is rear-wheel drive only and makes use of a six-speed gearbox. The GT3 will be unveiled publicly in January at the Birmingham Motor Show in the UK before deliveries to teams start a few months later.