Perhaps it wasn’t such a good idea to go automatic-transmission-only with the 911 GT3, the version of the 911 that, above all others, embodies the traditional essence of the iconic model: lightweight technology and ultimate driving pleasure. While the current GT3 is available solely with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, Porsche aims to offer its successor with both types of transmissions: country and western manual and automatic.

Despite a weight penalty of around 45 pounds, the automatic PDK (Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe) certainly enables quicker laps, as its shift times are significantly quicker than those achievable by any driver using a traditional manual. And so, with the PDK, Porsche caters to the racers and track-day enthusiasts among its customers.

But down the road, Porsche will adjust its strategy. Having neglected the purists in favor of the racers is a mistake Porsche doesn’t want to repeat, and therefore, the next generation of the GT3 almost certainly will be offered with both a six-speed manual and a seven-speed PDK. Note that the seven-speed manual of the entry-level Carrera models won’t be used in the GT3. Says Preuninger: “It is our long-term goal to have the customer decide between the two approaches.” Hear, hear.

(source: caranddriver.com)