Porsche 911 GT3 vs B747

Have you ever thought of racing the speed with an aeroplane? Sounds impossible? Sounds crazy? Well, this is what creative people have came up with - A Porsche 911 GT3 versus the Jumbo Jet, B747. An event was organized in Changi International Airport, Singapore in conjunction with the Singapore GT 2009, of course this most awaited race was the main attraction. For your information, the Porsche 911 GT3 will start at a certain distance behind the B747 to give Jumbo Jet a sufficient time to pick up the acceleration to move forward. Before you watch the video below, here are some facts on the Sport Car and B747 ...

Let's compare ...

Name: Porsche 911 GT3
Engine: 3.6L 360 hp H6
(H6 refers to a six cylinders arranged horizontally in two banks of three cylinders on each sides of the central crankcase)
Country of Origin: Germany
Transmission: 6 Speed, Manual
Average Performance: Acceleration from 0-60mph in approximately 4.3s
Maximum speed: 190mph (305 km/h)


Name: Boeing 747
Engine: PW 4062
GE CF6
RR RB211-524, depending on aircraft's configuration
Country of Origin: USA
Engine Rating: Average 62,000 lbs (2.76 MNewton) per Engine
Number of Engines: 4
Maximun speed: Average 614 mph (988 km/h)
Take off Speed: Average 160 Knots IAS (184 mph or 296 km/h)

After making the comparison, can you guess who's faster now?
Let's watch the video, enjoy!

Based on the calculation, it is undeniable that the Porsche 911 GT3 will win the race, considering its maximum speed can reach up to 190 mph, in contrast of B747 of 184 mph at take off configuration withs flaps lowered down at certain angle. However, based on a single race, we can hardly judge the winner, as the take-off speed of the aircraft is largely dependant on the weather condition of the day. Let's say: On a dry day with high humidity, the aircraft will require a shorter runway for take-off, hence, achieving lower take-off as compares to a wet day. The result could be different if the race is repeated on a different conditions. At the same time, this Jumbo Jet B747 is operated by JAL Cargo Japan, so you expect this heavy aeroplane to overcome its huge inertia to accelerate that fast? No, right? Nevertheless, it does answer some question marks on your head, yeah?

Have a great weekend,
Always,
KeithK :)