Porsche 911 GT3 R Takes the Win in LMGT3 Debut at Le Mans LMGT3
24 hours. Three-Drivers. One car.
In the world of automotive racing, there is no more grueling test of man and machine than Le Mans. Held every June at Circuit De La Sarthe in central France, the storied endurance race is a showcase for manufacturers like Ferrari, Ford, and, of course, Porsche.
Porsche has been a fixture of Le Mans for decades, winning a staggering 19 times, making them one of the most successful manufacturers ever to compete at Le Mans.
All-New LMGT3 Class
For 2024, Le Mans debuted an all-new class based on the existing FIA GT3 program.
Replacing the LMGTE class of previous years, the all-new LMGT3 class includes versions of road-ready vehicles from various manufacturers. This year, eleven cars representing five different manufacturers, including Porsche, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Aston Martin, and Ford, competed in this all-new, highly competitive class.
This class is unique because manufacturers must produce a certain number of cars that are available for sale to customers, ensuring that the race car is based on a road-going model.
Porsche’s entry? The mighty 911 GT3 R: a race-ready version of the Porsche 911 that HOUSE Porsche services daily.
Unleashing the Beast:
The Porsche 911 GT3 R
For Porsche owners and enthusiasts, the 911 GT3 R epitomizes performance and engineering excellence. Derived from the legendary 911 GT3, the GT3 R takes everything to the next level, designed specifically for endurance racing.
At the heart of the 911 GT3 R is a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine that delivers the sound and power you expect from Porsche. With around 550 horsepower, hooked up to a race-ready version of Porsche’s PDK transmission, this beast is built to dominate the racetrack.
The GT3 R isn’t just about raw power; it’s also a masterpiece of aerodynamics. The extensive use of lightweight materials like carbon fiber helps keep the weight down, enhancing speed and handling. The wide stance and aggressive aero package, including a prominent rear wing, ensure maximum downforce, keeping the car glued to the track even at high speeds.
Inside, the 911 GT3 R is all about business. The cockpit is stripped down to essentials, focusing on driver engagement and control. With a full roll cage, racing seats, and a state-of-the-art digital dashboard, every element is designed to enhance the racing experience.
Straight out of the factory, few cars are out there better on a track than the GT3 R.
2024 Le Mans:
Porsche Scores Big
The 2024 edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans was a race defined by extreme weather conditions and intense competition. A record crowd of 329,000 spectators witnessed the endurance classic, which saw torrential rain leading to multiple safety car deployments and significant challenges for all teams.
Tough Weather Conditions
From the outset, the weather played a pivotal role.
Heavy rain began shortly after the start, forcing the race director to deploy safety cars and neutralize the field to ensure driver safety. This pattern of intermittent heavy showers and brief dry spells continued throughout the night, creating a dynamic and unpredictable race environment.
With just two hours remaining, another deluge struck, pushing the teams and drivers to their limits as they battled for position in the race’s final moments.
Porsche Brings It Home
While Porsche faced numerous challenges in the Hypercar class, their performance in the LMGT3 class was exceptional.
LMGT3 Class Victory
In the LMGT3 class, Porsche fared significantly better, with the Manthey EMA team clinching the first-ever LMGT3 class victory. The team, featuring drivers Yasser Shahin, Morris Schuring, and Richard Lietz, demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy throughout the race. Their Porsche 911 GT3 R finished a lap ahead of the nearest competitors, showcasing their superior preparation and execution.
This victory was particularly meaningful given the broader context of Porsche’s performance at this year’s Le Mans. While the Hypercar class entries struggled with technical issues, the success of the Manthey EMA team provided a bright spot for the brand. The combination of Shahin’s steady consistency, Schuring’s aggressive pace, and Lietz’s experienced finesse proved unbeatable under the challenging conditions.
The Manthey EMA team maintained a strong presence at the front of the field from the early stages, navigating the treacherous weather and avoiding major incidents. Their triumph was a testament to the team’s resilience and strategic acumen, allowing them to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the chaotic race conditions.
For all of us Porsche fans, this was a huge victory!
Best Porsche Service Near Los Angeles
When it comes to Porsche service and repair in Los Angeles, HOUSE Automotive is the go-to spot for Porsche enthusiasts.
At HOUSE Automotive, you’ll be welcomed by a team of certified Porsche technicians who are genuinely passionate about these iconic cars. Their expertise and dedication ensure your Porsche gets the top-notch care and attention it deserves. One of the best parts about HOUSE Automotive is that they offer significant cost savings—up to 30% compared to dealerships—without skimping on quality.
Plus, HOUSE Automotive stands behind their work with an impressive 2-year, unlimited-mile warranty. Knowing your car is in good hands, you can drive away with peace of mind. Whether routine maintenance, complex repairs, or performance upgrades, HOUSE Automotive is your reliable partner in Porsche ownership.
Road & Track. We Do it All.
Whether you own a dedicated track-spec Porsche, daily-driver or a weekend cruiser, HOUSE Automotive is staffed with certified Porsche technicians and equipped with the latest diagnostics tool to service your Porsche.