Overview
The 964 Carrera RS was not sold in the USA because of the cost of homologation. Instead, that country was given its own unique model, the RS America.
This was based on a standard 964 Carrera 2 and used the standard bodyshell and glazing, as well as the standard engine, transmission (manual only) brakes and even twin airbags.
Where it differed, was in terms of specification. The RS America retained the standard front seats but these were trimmed in corduroy instead of leather. In RS style, there were no rear seats (although some of the very last cars were so equipped); instead Porsche had to fin twin storage bins other, said the US Department of Transport, someone could conceivably sit in there.
Electric windows remained but the door panels were simple RS-style ones. Mirrors were manually operated and there was the facility for an optional two-speaker cassette-radio.
Ride height remained unchanged for legal reasons, but suspension came from the 964 Turbo, while wheels were 17-inch Cup items.
The RS America came in three colours; Guards Red, Black and Grand Prix White. Two metallics, Polar Silver and Midnight Blue, were $1030 extra. At the back of the car was a fixed whaletail spoiler.
Unlike the European RS, the America was some $10,000 less expensive than the standard Carrera 2.
How to spot
- ‘RS’ decals in front of rear wheels
- Fixed ‘whaletail’ rear spoiler
- ‘RS America’ rear badge
Specification
Capacity: 3600cc
Compression ratio: 10.3:1
Maximum Power: 250bhp @ 6100rpm
Maximum Torque: 310Nm @ 4800rpm
Brakes: Front: 298mm discs; rear: 299mm discs; servo assisted with ABS
Suspension: Front: Lower wishbones and MacPherson struts with combined coil springs and dampers, plus anti-roll bar Rear: Semi-trailing arms with combined coil springs and dampers, plus anti-roll bar
Wheels & Tyres: Front: 17x7J with 205/50ZR17 tyres. Rear: 17x8J with 255/40ZR17
Length: 4250mm
Width: 1650mm
Weight: >1340kg
Did you Know?
The 964 Carrera RS was not sold in the USA because of the cost of homologation. Instead, that country was given its own unique model: the RS America.