News emerge that Porsche motorsport division is pondering a new PDK transmission for the new 911 GT3. That means the GT3 will no longer be available with a manual ‘box.

That is a bold move that could cause serious emotional damage to the die hard Porsche GT3 fans. The car always had a manual, it’s part of its character. The PDK might make it faster, but it won’t be just as fun.

It’s not yet official, mind you. Porsche is considering both the PDK and the manual, but eventually only one transmission will be offered, because there’s no personalization or options for a car like the GT3.

Porsche 911 project chief August Achleitner tries to justify this case: “When we launched the 911 Turbo S, we did not offer a manual, but we have not had a single complaint,”.

True that, but the Turbo S is a mid-life crisis sort of car, and it’s aimed at the rich middle-aged man who thinks driving a fast sports car will make him look cool.

The GT3, however, is a full-blooded track car and it’s only bought by enthusiasts and people who care about driving. It’s not fair forcing them to have the PDK and change gear with some buttons. It kills most of the fun.

Source: InsideLine