Porsche 911 GT3 RS breaks cover

Porsche has finally taken the wraps off the new 911 GT3 RS. Probably a swansong for the current generation 991.2, the new GT3 RS is the third GT road-approved car within a year after the standard GT3 and the ‘Ring record holder, the GT2 RS. The GT3 RS also packs the most powerful naturally-aspirated motor from Porsche till date.

The same high-revving 4.0-litre six-cylinder naturally aspirated boxer engine from the GT3 has been boosted by 20bhp to produce 520bhp. The glorious engine redlines at a stratospheric 9000rpm and comes mated to Porsche’s specially calibrated seven-speed PDK transmission. The 911 GT3 RS can do a 0-100kmph sprint in 3.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 312kmph (That’s 2kmph more than the GT3). Although the internals of the engine remains the same, the power bump is a result of new intake and exhaust systems. The tweaks to Porsche’s DME (Digital Motor Electronics) engine management further helps the go-fast cause. 

Aero bits include a massive, weight-optimised, rigid rear wing which is more in-your-face compared to the subtle one on the GT3. The GT2 RS inspiration can be seen on the fenders while underneath them are the same spring rates as well. The springs at the rear are increased by 40 per cent meanwhile the overall is double that of the current 911 GT3 or the previous GT3 RS. The conventional elastokinematic bearings are ditched for ball joints on all suspension arms for increased precision, says Porsche. 

The GT3 RS also gets a recalibrated rear-axle steering with 21-inch lightweight wheels wrapped in 325/30-section Michelin rubber at the rear and 20-inch 265/35-section wheels up front. There are a lot of weight saving measures such as magnesium roof and bonnet, carbon-fibre bucket seats, lightweight door panels with storage nets and opening loops, reduced sound absorption and the new lightweight rear lid. Porsche hasn’t disclose how much weight has been shaved off from the crash diet. 

The GT3 RS can be had in the Clubsport package at no extra cost. The package includes roll-over bar, a manual fire extinguisher, preparation for a battery disconnect switch and a six-point belt for a sporty driving experience. For the hardcore purists, there is a Weissach package developed by Porsche Motorsport department with additional weight saving. It uses additional carbon components for the chassis, interior and exterior, as well as optional magnesium wheels bringing the weight down to 1,430 kilograms.

The GT3 RS will make its public debut at the Geneva stage next month. Although it is available to order now it will hit the roads in Germany only in mid-April. The GT3 RS completes the current 911 generation family and marks the end of the 991 era. The new 992 is expected to come in later this year.