The full field of 22 Porsche GT3 Cup cars that have reached Australian shores in readiness for the 2011 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia series return.
The German thoughbreds, worth a combined total of AUD$5 million, have been moved to secure storage awaiting customs clearance later this week.
With the vast majority of the GT3 Cup cars in the maximum grid of 22 already sold, Porsche Cars Australia expects the remaining cars to be snapped up prior to the cars’ release to customers on January 29 – a day before an all-in test at Winton Motor Raceway. CLICK HERE for Speedcafe.com.au’s previous story.
Porsche Cars Australian motorsport manager Jamey Blaikie says that interest has been extremely high, but there are no plans to bring more of the GT3 Cup cars to the country.
“The momentum has built. There is no doubt about that,” Blaikie said.
“Now that the cars have arrived it is only a matter of time before the entire grid is accounted for.
“And despite enquiries as to whether PCA would bring in more cars if the demand is there – the answer is a firm “No.” We will cap the grid to a maximum of 22 cars to maximise the competitors’ investment.”
According to Porsche, the new Cup cars promise to be faster and better to drive. Power is up 50hp to 450 hp, handling and grip are enhanced with a wider front and rear track, race-bred suspension and gains to front and rear down force.
Official tyre supplier and Porsche Motorsport partner Michelin has also designed a brand-new tyre for the 2011 Cup car which will also contribute to faster lap times.
The first round of the reborn Australian Carrera Cup Championship will be held at the Albert Park street circuit, supporting the Qantas Australian Formula One Grand Prix.
