Porsche 911 GT3 RS is a 500-hp, RWD monster
Lighter, quicker, and more serious than ever, but there’s still no manual-transmission option
Porsche finally debuted the 911 GT3 RS here in Geneva, and while the stats look wonderful, let’s get a bit of bad news out of the way for purists: the GT3 RS will be PDK-only. That means, despite a lot of credible rumors to the contrary, there won’t be a manual option. On the other hand, the PDK can shift faster than a human can; it’s just about the best dual-clutch in the business. The stick-only Cayman GT4 is our consolation prize.
Back to the GT3 RS we have, though. As expected, there’s more power on tap: [B]500 hp versus the 475 in the regular GT3, thanks to a 200cc bump in displacement to 4 liters. 338 lb-ft of torque are on hand, and a shorter rear ratio allows the GT3 RS to bang out a 3.1 second sprint to 60 mph. It’s good for an 11.2 second quarter mile time, too, in case you were wondering.
Usually with Porsches, the saying goes, you have to pay more to get less. This time, deleting the A/C and the radio is a no-charge option. Thanks, Porsche! Also included as standard are PASM with PTV Plus, rear-wheel steering, and a fully-variable differential lock. Suspension camber, caster, and the sway bars are fully adjustable. It is shod with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires to Porsche’s special specifications, and they’re the widest tires of any 911 extant.
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Weight savings is 22 lbs over the normal 911 GT3, thanks I’m part to a magnesium roof (handily fitted with two recessed “bubbles” to help clear helmets).
The real measure of any Porsche of this ilk is the all-important Nurburgring time. [B]For the 911 GT3 RS, it’s a staggering 7:20 flat. The non-RS 911 GT3 is 5 seconds slower. That’s no small thing.
The MSRP in the U.S. will be $175,900 plus a $995 destination charge. It will go on sale in early July 2015.
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