We test drive Karim Al Azhari’s Porsche 996 GT2 with which he raced during the 2007-2008-2009 UAE GT Championship, we also discuss the car’s history, its list of modifications and its overall performance with Karim. Here’s what he had to say:
The Porsche is a 2003 996 GT2 originally pumping out 475 hp from a 3.6L twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, with a kerb weight of 1430 kg.
This car was purchased for the sole purpose of racing for Al Nabooda Racing in the UAE GT Championship in 2007. Although in winter 2007 the newer 997 GT2 would be ready for delivery it would miss the start of the Championship, so the team had to source a 996 GT2 in the summer of 2007 and spent 2 months preparing it in time for the UAE race season. The modifications were totally done in-house at the Porsche Center Dubai workshop in Al-Quoz.
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Safety modifications included installation of a Porsche Motorsport FIA-approved full roll cage, Fire-extinguishing system for cockpit and engine compartments, an FIA-approved Hans compatible fire-proof race seat, internal and external battery-kill switches, quick release steering wheel, hood and bonnet pins and tow hooks.
Handling modifications included 3-way adjustable top level racing suspensions with external oil-reservoirs for consistency of the operation of the shock absorbers, a track alignment and corner-weight balance, and Porsche GT3 Cup brake pads and discs.
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On the performance side, there were specially designed high-level turbos, custom engine mapping designed for low range torque suitable for powerful and smooth exists from turns, instead of high-end power for top speed, a methanol injection system for the cold-air intake and a sport exhaust.
Weight reductions included carbon fiber doors, bonnet and wing, perplex windows all around, a partially stripped interior. Results were a total power output of approximately 550hp, and a kerb weight of 1330kg.
The car was commissioned by Al Nabooda racing from 2007 to 2009 and won each championship entered successfully!
Since the car was retired from racing, Al Nabooda have modified it to make it more appropriate for public roads and the track, at my request, instead of the full race purpose. So the interior is more comfortable now, the methanol-injection system has been removed since it occupied the area of the passenger seat, original doors and glass have been refitted.
The car now functions as my Circuit training car, and I have asked for some exciting and suitable modifications which include:
– Larger wheels from the 997 GT2/ GT2 RS, 19 inch diameter with a rear width of 12 inches to fit the latest Pirelli Trofeo R tires.
– ORZ Performance has sourced and fitted the brilliant Brembo GT Kit front and rear giving the car incredible and consistent stopping power.
– Porsche Motorsport Chassis/Suspension links tightening up the handling of the car, making my training more similar to the race car behavior. A carbon fiber roof, and a lower center of gravity in order to improve handling.
It can sprint from 0-100km in 3.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 335 km/h. I raced it for 2 years from 2007 to 2009 and won the championships both years!
Special thanks to Karim Al Azhari and Porsche Club UAE.
