Offering increased power, lower weight, shorter transmission ratios and a chassis optimized to an even higher level, the new 911 GT3 RS sets the foundation for homologating the racing version of the 911 GT3.
The GT3 RS thus provides the key ingredients for extending the unparalleled racing record of Porsche, and continues the series of absolute, uncompromised, motorsport-oriented editions of the 911 that are homologated for road use and which trace their roots back to the classic Carrera RS 2.7 of 1973.
The heart of the new GT3 RS is based on the proven flat-six cylinder `boxer' engine already featured in the 911 GT3. The RS now displaces the same 3.8 of the GT3, instead of 3.6-litres, but in this new model is tuned to deliver even more power and rev even faster.
The engine in the new 911 GT3 RS delivers 15hp more than its counterpart in the 911 GT3, providing a maximum output of 450hp from the naturally-aspirated power unit. This is 35hp more than the prior model GT3 RS, and translates into a specific output of more than 118hp per liter from the six-cylinder, an extremely high figure for a non-turbocharged engine. And unlike many other high-performance drivetrains, the power unit in the new GT3 RS remains well suited to everyday use.
The new 911 GT3 RS comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission - with a short-throw gear shifter. To enhance the level of performance throughout the entire range of engine and road speeds, the gears have a shorter transmission ratio than on the 911 GT3, deliberately making concessions in terms of top speed.
The new 911 GT3 RS features Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and, for the first time, it has been purpose-built and set-up to further improve the sporting behavior of the chassis. With a wider track, not only at the rear but also on the front axle, the body of the new 911 GT3 RS is widened accordingly. For the new car, the use of additional wheel arch covers increases the span across the nose. Beneath these pronounced front fenders sit 9" wide wheels with 245/35 ZR19 sports tires, and 12" wide wheels with 325/30 ZR19 sports tires sit at the rear.
Porsche Active Drivetrain Mounts (PADM) are featured as standard and raise the driving dynamics of the new 911 GT3 RS to an even higher level. Depending on driving conditions, the engine mounts change in their stiffness and damping effect to resist the movement of the drivetrain in the bodyshell; this provides dynamic advantages when driving quickly on a challenging race track or twisting road.
The qualities of the car on a race track further benefit from the aerodynamics that develop even more downforce than the GT3. Porsche is also introducing another new option in 2010, a lithium-ion battery delivered with the car. Replacing the conventional lead battery to reduces weight by more than 10kg (22 lb).
The new 911 GT3 RS shows its close connection to motorsport through the dynamic looks of the car. In particular, the new carbon-fiber rear wing with its specifically designed aluminium wing supports. Aside from the bold livery, other distinctive sporting motifs include the low ride height, characteristic dual tailpipes of the extra-light titanium sports exhaust and special front and rear parts exclusive to this model.