Porsche has announced the all-new 911 GT3 RS, which borrows heavily from its track-only sibling, the 911 GT3 R. A bit more extreme than its predecessor, the 992 generation GT3 RS certainly isn't here to mess about.
Right on the cusp of road legality, the 911 GT3 RS sports a ton of performance and aerodynamic enhancements and makes it hard to imagine the direction Porsche will be taking with future iterations of the road-legal performance car.
Engine and Performance
The new GT3 RS comes powered by a 4.0L naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine producing 525hp. Porsche says the GT3 RS does 0-62mph in 3.2 seconds and should max out at a top speed of 184mph in seventh gear. And speaking of gears, Porsche's in-house PDK seven-speed gearbox is on duty and comes with shorter gear ratios than the 911 GT3.
In line with the increase in performance, larger and thicker aluminum monobloc fixed-caliper brakes ensure that the GT3 RS comes to a standstill much faster than those before it. In addition, Porsche's Ceramic Composite Brakes are an option for those who might fancy a more capable braking system.
Aerodynamics
Of course, aerodynamics is paramount for any performance car, and the all-new GT3 RS delivers. With up to 409kg of downforce at 124mph, the 911 GT3 RS generates twice as much downforce as its outgoing 991.2 generation predecessor and three times as much downforce as the current 911 GT3.
Porsche largely attributes the upturn in aerodynamics to the centralized radiator. Unlike previous iterations with a three-radiator layout, Porsche has borrowed the 911 RSR's centralized radiator, freeing up space on the sides and aiding the integration of more aggressive active aerodynamic elements.
Adjustable wing elements at the front and a massive two-part rear wing at the back further ensure that the GT3 RS is always pressed onto the tarmac, even at high speeds and through quick direction changes. Previously reserved for track-only cars, Porsche's advanced DRS (Drag Reduction System) is also available and should help the road-legal car achieve low drag and higher speeds on straight track sections.
Exterior and Interior Design
Visually, the 911 GT3 RS isn't too different from its predecessors, except that it features a more aggressive look with vents and ducts all over the place. In essence, it's the typical and iconic 911 design we all can't get enough of. The extensive use of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) throughout the car (doors, front wings, roof, front lid, etc.) ensures that it is super lightweight (1450kg) despite all the new elements Porsche has added.
On the inside, the GT3 RS comes with all the bells and whistles you would expect from a performance-focused Porsche. A sport steering wheel with drive mode switches, bucket seats, and a pair of 7-inch displays all come as standard. In addition, buyers will be free to choose the Clubsport package (with a roll cage) at no extra cost, while more feature-thirsty drivers will have to dish out more for the feature-packed Weissach Package.
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is available for order now, with deliveries expected to commence in spring 2023. Prices should start at about $225,000 for the US market.
