The Porsche Carrera GT

Porsche Carrera GT

Chassis and modular frame form a closely-knit team

The Carrera GT is the first production car in the world with a monocoque chassis and modular frame made from carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFP): Porsche has applied for a patent to cover the technique. CFP, a material developed for the most sophisticated aerospace applications, provides the foundation for the minimum weight and maximum strength vital to the Carrera GT’s supreme performance and driving dynamics. Once again, Porsche’s engineers have transferred the unique demands made on a racing car to a road-going sports car for regular use, giving the Carrera GT not only outstanding performance but also supreme safety.

Race car underfloor

With a top speed of 330km/h (205mph), aerodynamics obviously play a crucial role. To maximise the downforces acting on the Carrera GT, the car features underfloor geometry similar to that of a racing car. Interacting with the rear diffuser and airflow channels, the fully covered carbon underfloor generates a suction ’ground effect’ seldom found on a road-going vehicle.

Forged magnesium wheels

Measuring 19ins at the front and 20ins at the rear, the Carrera GT’s five-spoke forged magnesium wheels underline the car’s motorsport heritage and bear testimony to the exclusivity of this high-performance sports car. This is the first time forged magnesium wheels – which are more than 25 per cent lighter than cast aluminium wheels and offer an excellent service life – have been used on a production car.

Sensitive suspension set-up

Maintining optimum stability at ultra high speeds requires unique spring and damper settings. Once again, the solution came straight from motorsport with spring/damper units operated by stainless-steel pushrods and pivot levers fitted inside the chassis structure. This positive connection to the chassis promotes exact responses from the springs and dampers, ensuring safe and secure driving behaviour in the process.