Porsche 996 GT3

Total Production: 682
Lower weight, even more fun to drive Continuing the tradition of the ^RS^ models

Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG of Stuttgart continues its new-model offensive with a further version of the 911: due in Autumn 2003, the 911 GT3 RS is an extremely sporty model with the power and purist qualities of a thoroughbred circuit racer, but legally qualified in every way for road use.

The 911 GT3 RS is a homologation model intended to serve as a basis for motor sport activities in accordance with the new international GT rules. The 'RS' in the model name will cause the hearts of all Porsche enthusiasts and motor racing fans to beat faster. Models such as the Carrera RS 2.7 of 1972 and the 911 SC RS (1984) were also built under the homologation rules, and not only represent proud chapters in Porsche's heritage but often rewrote motor-sport history as well. The new 911 GT3 RS is intended to continue this tradition.

In the development of the 'RS' the emphasis was on achieving the best possible power-to-weight ratio. A figure of 4.86 kg/kW has resulted – a further improvement of four per cent compared with the Club Sport version of the GT3. The new model is 50 kilograms lighter, and tips the scales at 1,360 kilograms with a full load of fuel (64 litres) in the tank.

The 'RS', like its motor-sport predecessors, is only available with a full roll-over cage installed. All cars have a white paint finish, with the inscriptions only in blue or red, also in the tradition of its famous forebears. The road version of Porsche's new sports car has various technical features that will also appear on the racing version; for example the complete wheel hub assemblies, divided front-and rear lateral suspension control arms, optimised rear-axle geometry, a special weight-saving rear window made of acrylic material and a carbon-fibre reinforced front hood and rear wing.

The engine is an extremely free-revving unit that develops 280 kW (381 bhp) at 7,300 revolutions per minute from a swept volume of 3.6 litres. The maximum engine speed is 8,200 rpm and the specific output 105.8 bhp per litre. An air collector located under the rear wing uses pressure build-up there to supply extra intake air to the engine at high speeds, so that the 'RS' reaches its maximum power output even more easily, as borne out by its performance figures. For the classic sprint from 0 to 100 km/h the GT3 RS needs 4.4 seconds, and goes on to reach 200 km/h in 14 seconds. Its top speed is 306 km/h. This abundant power is transmitted via a close-ratio six-speed gearbox. Between the engine and the gearbox the 'RS' has a single-mass flywheel with a lower rotating mass than the double-mass version.

The new GT3 RS is expected to be priced in the region of £85,000.

Source - Porsche