2017 911 GTS Laps Nurburgring in Amazing Time

Porsche’s New 911 GTS Blows Away its Predecessor — and the Competition at the Famed ‘Ring

We didn’t exactly expect the 2017 911 GTS to be slow. But the newest iteration of the 911 has already blown away everyone’s expectations at the famed 73 turn, 12.9 mile Nurburgring. Official word from Porsche is that the GTS navigated those turns in a stunning 7 minutes and 26 seconds. That’s a whopping 12 seconds faster than the last 911 GTS. It’s also a full four seconds faster than the new 911 Carrera S.

But wait, there’s more. Following that stunning performance, Porsche fitted a set of Pirelli P-Zero Corsa N0 tires to the GTS and headed out for another try. The racier tire helped it manage an even better time of 7 minutes 22 seconds. And before you decry those results, know that these tires will be a factory option on 911s with 20-inch wheels.

That time is a mere two seconds slower than the GT3 RS. And as far as the competition goes? That 7:22 run places the new 911 GTS smack in the top 20, in front of the Nissan GT-R and Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4. For a car that “only” produces 450 hp from a twin-turbo 3.0 inline six, that’s extremely impressive.

Of course, horsepower isn’t the only thing cars like the 911 GTS need to dominate the ‘Ring. The new GTS sports goodies like the Carrera 4’s wide body and 20 inch wheels. The Sport Chrono package is standard equipment. And the coupe (used in this particular test) comes standard with Porsche’s Active Suspension Management.

Porsche used an all wheel drive model for this test, but the 911 GTS will also be available in rear wheel drive when it goes on sale in April. Targa and Cabriolet versions are also available in addition to the Coupe. But no matter which configuration you choose, rest assured – you’re getting a damn fast car no matter what.