nberry:
We would the magazine fudge the numbers? It is Italian and both cars are recent Porsche models. The difference in time between the TTS and GT3 on the Ring was a mere 2 seconds over a course of 14 miles. The Italian course is 2 miles or so and on a shorter course the GT3 is much more competitive.
IMO there is absolutely no reason for them to fudge the numbers. What I do like about this test is that both cars appear to have been tested together - same day, same driver. The Turbo S' figures do seem a 'bit' weak to me.
Don't forget, the GT3's gear ratios for 4th, 5th & 6th gears are significantly shorter (& better) than the Turbo's - even more than the chart shows since it revs much higher allowing for even shorter gear ratios. It might not have the low end torque of the Turbo but once in its power range, look out.
As for track times, since both cars weren't equipped with the same rubber IMO one must be careful comparing times. I will say that while the Ring is a magical track, I now have concluded that too much time is left on the table because of the risk factor required. While on more normal tracks with proper (read - safe) runoff areas, test drivers can take a car to its limits without risking their lives!
The GT3 is proving to be Porsche's best performance value.