The historical video celebrates the life of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS (RennSport), tracing a 40 year history. While we probably identify the first modern model of this kind as the Porsche 996 of 2003, the RS tradition actually started back in 1972. This video describes how the Porsche 911 GT3 RS was created and if you’re a fan, there’s so much footage here that you won’t know where to look.
The video takes us to the second generation 911 GT3 RS which is described as the “definitive track car for the road”. It’s equipped with a 3.8-litre engine with 450 hp and plenty of Porsche technology. This is not, though, a simple sports road car model - developed by Porsche motorsports, this really takes track driving to the roads. The video is a fantastic comparison of Porsche across the years - check it out above.
Here’s the Porsche 911 GT3 R officially presented at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham. The 911 GT3 R is a race-use only Porsche, in line with FIA GT rules, and includes modifications on the GT3 Cup, which in turn was based on the GT3 RS “standard” model. The GT3 R has a flat-six, 4.0-litre engine replacing the 3.8. It has 480 hp and a reduced weight of 1,200 kg.
The GT3 R has sports ABS, traction control and transmission assistance to avoid the rear wheels blocking when going up the gears. Changes to the aerodynamics are part of the package and include a huge rear spoiler, and the car is also fitted with adjustable SACHS suspension. The Porsche 911 GT3 R will cost about 279,000 euros, taxes excluded. It will be available in spring.
The GT3 RS is the “most racy 911 ever”, and we’re not just talking the fluoro orange side strips. In this video Andrea Prenuninger (sports racer manager) gives us a low-down of the technology behind the new GT3 RS, including weight and aerodynamics, downforce, and the use of a wider track at the front, rims and wheels. In short, this is supposed to feel like a cup car, it just happens to be street legal.
Overall the GT3 RS has 450 hp on 1,370 kg of weight which is just 100 kg shy of a track version. Other features include external and internal roll bars, a closer, shorter shift, Porsche Stability Management system, electronic suspension control, active engine support and well…this machine was developed by Porsche motorsports so that should really tell us all we need to know! In addition the Sport function increases torque by 35Nm at middle rev range, while overall torque is 430 Nm at 6,750 rpm. Autobloc differential is included.
From the 911 Sport Classic to the 911 Turbo and GT3 RS, the Porsche stand at the Frankfurt motor show had so much on display we hardly knew where to look. New Porsche president Michael Macht made the presentation to the press, with plenty of space dedicated to the Panamera as well.
The 911 Turbo coupe and cabrio were on show, equipped with the new 3.8-litre twin turbo engine with direct injection and 500 hp. PDK transmission is included with the welcome modification of steering wheel paddles and program options of Sport, Sport Plus and Launch Control indicated. New features such as Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) have also been developed. The 911 Turbo can be recognised by the new titanium air intakes on the front bumper, LED lights, larger exhaust and new alloy wheels.
The 911 GT3 RS with the 3.8-litre was also presented, along with the GT3 Cup 2010 and the 911 Sport Classic. The GT3 RS has 15 hp more than the GT3, taking total power to 450 hp, thanks to modifications to the air intake system and a lighter weight of 1,370 kg. It has a new aerodynamic kit, lighter door panelling, roll bar, titanium exhaust, PASM electronic suspension system, Porsche Stability Management system and new alloy wheels. Maximum torque is 430 Nm at 6,750 rpm and the GT3 RS is only available with manual gearbox.
In addition to all this, from 2010, Porsche is introducing new optionals, in the form of a lithium ion battery for track use, which reduces weight by ten kilograms compared to the conventional lead battery. Front tyre mechanisms also allow for raising the wheelbase and a larger fuel tank of 90 litres is also available. For the real die-hard sports fans, you can forego air conditioning and the radio and while Porsche has a luxury name in terms of cup holders, get the Panamera. You won’t find any of them on the GT3 RS.
Continue reading: Porsche stand at Frankfurt: live pics of 911 Turbo, GT3 RS and Sport Classic
In these pics the 911 Sport Classic is pictured with the 1973 Carrera 2.7 RS, and although the racing solutions of the latter have inspired the GT3 and GT3 RS, this 911 is still a classic. Who would have thought one rear spoiler could be so beautiful? This is pure Porsche tradition, no Panamera’s or Cayenne’s in sight.
The 911 Sport Classic is equipped with the 3.8-litre DFI boxer engine which now has 408 hp thanks to a new intake and engine management system. It will appear at the Frankfurt motor show soon, and will be made in a limited edition of 250 models. It’s already being controversial given its price tag of about 200,000 euros, taxes included. One for collectors only.

The rejuvenating process for the Porsche 911 range continues, with the restyling of the GT3 coming up. These spy shots from France show the GT3 RS restyling.
The restyling mostly involves the basic model’s updates including LED day lights at the front, and the rear spoiler and roll-bar for the RS version. The traditional livery should be kept as is, with some touches to the wheels and other features.
Technically, the arrival of direct injection will take place which will result in about 20 extra horse power compared to the current 415: just in case that wasn’t enough, 440hp will now be at your disposal.
Continue reading: Porsche 911 GT3 RS: new spy shots of restyling