Overview

The 996 GT3 RS was a harsh, unforgiving vehicle that was only really at home on smooth racetracks, not bumpy public roads. However, Porsche surprised everyone by making the 997 GT3 RS a more useable and refined machine, without compromising its sporting credentials.

The RS was based closely on the standard GT3 but used the wider rear bodyshell of the Carrera S. Weight was kept down by using a carbonfibre engine cover and spoiler, and a plastic rear window. All this saved 20kg compared to the standard GT3, despite the wider rear arches.

The drivetrain was as per GT3 but instead of a heavy dual-mass flywheel, there was a lightweight single-mass item that saved 8kg in weight and also improved throttle response.

Springs and dampers were uprated compared to those of the standard GT3, but the RS still offered a better ride than its predecessor, thanks in part to the inclusion of PASM which gave a choice of Normal and Sports damper settings.

Inside, the RS was very like the standard GT3 with the Clubsport package. There was a rear rollcage, carbonfibre bucket seats (weighing just 10kg each), black Alcantara trim and simple door panels. The steering wheel had a racy yellow stripe to mark the straight ahead position.

The RS was available in a limited range of colours; Arctic Silver Metallic and Black were standard, while Orange or Green (yes, they were called simply that) were special colours. Depending on which shade you chose, there was a contrasting colour of black or orange for the wheels, side-stripes and mirror housings. It was not a car for shy and retiring types!

How to spot

• Fixed rollcage
• Colour-coded wheels and decals
• GT3 RS badging
• Large carbonfibre rear spoiler

Specification

Capacity: 3600cc

Compression ratio: 12.0:1

Maximum Power: 415bhp @ 7600rpm

Maximum Torque: 404Nm @ 5500rpm

Brakes: Front: 380mm discs; rear: 340mm discs. Servo assisted with ABS and PSM. PCCB optional

Suspension: Front: Lower wishbones and MacPherson struts with combined coil springs and dampers, plus anti-roll bar Rear: Multilink with combined coil springs and dampers, plus anti-roll bar PASM

Wheels & Tyres: Front: 19×8.5J with 235/35ZR19 tyres. Rear: 19x12J with 305/30ZR19 tyres

Length: 4445mm

Width: 1808mm

Weight: >1375kg

Did you Know?

The RS badge has long been revered on sporting 911s, the most famous perhaps being the Carrera 2.7RS of 1973. RS stands for Rennsport which is German for motorsport.

0-62mph: 4.2 sec; top speed: 187mph