Why Porsche Discontinued The Legendary Carrera GT

Porsche used forged magnesium wheels instead of aluminum to further reduce weight, meaning the Carrera GT boasted a curb weight of only 3,050 pounds. However, the automaker used aluminum for the upper control arms, pistons, and 10 titanium connecting rods. The oil tank was cast directly into the transmission housing, eliminating the need for external oil lines (via Car and Driver). That might not seem slim and trim by today’s standards, but there was a reason. Porsche designers had to stiffen the chassis by adding extra carbon fiber to accommodate the open-top Targa concept. It came with two removable roof panels made from — what else? — carbon fiber.

The body was designed to direct airflow to optimize aerodynamics and funnel air into one of the car’s more noticeable features. Sitting toward the back is a massive aluminum air intake, which Porsche claims — along with three radiators — had an area five times bigger than those found in the Porsche 911 Turbos of the same era. So, why does it need all that air? Keep in mind this car was initially created as a Le Man’s prototype. The GT powerplant is an aluminum 350 cubic inch (5,733cc), naturally aspirated, DOHC 40-valve V10 able to kick out 604 horsepower at 435 lb-ft. It could go from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 3.9 seconds and on to 124 miles per hour in another six seconds. Porsche listed the “official” top speed at 205 miles per hour.