The Porsche Motorsport department presented its latest project, the most powerful naturally-aspirated Porsche – Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Following in the revered tradition of RS (RennSport) derivatives of the 911 coupe, the new model combines a race car chassis and a track-proven, high-revving, naturally-aspirated, four-liter engine to set a new benchmark for performance driving enthusiasts.
The new sports car from the expert engineers in Weissach, Germany, is based on the 911 GT3 and raises its abilities higher courtesy of a further-optimized, 520 hp (383 kW) rear-mounted, flat-six engine offering acceleration from 0 to 62 mph in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 193 mph. This is paired with suspension tuned for maximum tactility and precision. Hence, the 911 GT3 RS features recalibrated rear axle steering and revised suspension for quicker reactions to driver input and enhanced agility overall.
Aerodynamics have determined the design of the wide, lightweight body – most obviously with its distinctive rear wing – but detail changes have also been applied throughout the car. The principle of form following function continues inside the cabin, with deeply-sculpted sports seats made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) with a carbon-weave finish, and which provide secure lateral support through bends.
The consistency of the material choices throughout the car emphasizes the lightweight RS concept. This is demonstrated by the door panels with storage nets and door opening loops, reduced sound absorption materials and a new, lighter rear engine cover.
The four-liter, flat-six, naturally-aspirated engine in the new 911 GT3 RS pushes the sports car to new limits, delivering 20 hp (15 kW) more than the power unit in the previous RS model (and also the 911 GT3). Offering an engine rev speed range reaching up to 9,000 rpm, it was the ideal choice as a thoroughbred sports engine. In combination with the specially-calibrated seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) double-clutch transmission, the focus on high performance guarantees outstanding driving characteristics.
Technology straight from motorsport ensures that the chassis provides exceptional responses. Solid ball joints on all suspension arms provide more accurate control compared with conventional elastic-kinematic bearings. Twenty-inch diameter lightweight, forged alloy wheels with newly developed 265/35 sports tires on the front axle enhance steering behavior, while 21-inch diameter wheels with 325/30 tires at the rear axle improve traction.
As with all current 911 GT models, a Clubsport package is also available for the 911 GT3 RS at no extra cost. The package includes a roll-over bar, a manual fire extinguisher, preparation for a battery disconnect switch and a six-point harness on the driver’s seat for a comprehensive track day set-up.
For particularly ambitious drivers, the Porsche Motorsport department has created an optional Weissach Package delivering further weight reductions. It features additional carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components for the chassis, interior, and exterior, as well as optional magnesium wheels. In its lightest configuration, this package reduces the weight of the 911 GT3 RS to 1,430 kg. NB Availability for the optional Weissach Package is to be confirmed.
Customers will be invited to explore the potential of their new car, and further develop their own skills behind the wheel, by participating in a bespoke driving experience around the unique tracks at the Porsche Experience Centre.
