With a clear focus on motorsport, the Porsche Motorsport department will present its latest project at the Geneva Motor Show, the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Following in the revered tradition of RS derivatives of the 911 coupe, the new model combines a race car chassis with a track-proven, high-revving, naturally-aspirated, 4-litre engine to set a new benchmark for performance driving enthusiasts.
The new model is based on the 911 GT3 but with increased performance thanks to its further-optimised 520bhp rear-mounted, flat-6 engine offering acceleration from 0 to 62mph in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 193mph. This is paired with suspension tuned for maximum feel and precision. Hence, the 911 GT3 RS features recalibrated rear axle steering and revised suspension for quicker reactions to driver input and enhanced overall agility.
Aerodynamics
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-fibre reinforced plastic with a carbon-weave finish.
The consistency of the material choices throughout the car emphasise 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.
520bhp naturally-aspirated engine
The 4-litre, flat-6, naturally-aspirated engine in the new 911 GT3 RS pushes the sports car to new limits, delivering 20bhp more than the power unit in the previous RS model (and also the 911 GT3). Offering an engine rev speed range reaching up to 9000rpm, 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.
Chassis and Clubsport package
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 elasto-kinematic bearings. Twenty-inch diameter lightweight, forged alloy wheels with newly-developed 265/35 sports tyres on the front axle enhance steering behaviour, while 21-inch diameter wheels with 325/30 tyres 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.
Weissach Package and magnesium wheels
For particularly ambitious drivers, the Porsche Motorsport department has created an optional Weissach Package delivering further weight reductions. It features additional carbon-fibre reinforced plastic 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 1430kg.
Note: Availability of the optional Weissach Package is to be confirmed.
Market launch and prices
The new 911 GT3 RS is available to order now from Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland. The recommended retail price is £141,346.00 incl VAT. First deliveries begin in early summer.
Edited by: Glen Smale
Images by: Porsche
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