Porsche releases rapid new 911 GT3 RS

It's a good day when Porsche unveils a new model. Even more so when that new model is a 911 GT3 RS. Built for performance addicts who enjoy rocking the occasional trackday, the new 991.2 GT3 RS comes armed with a more powerful (+15kW) version of that now familiar 4.0-litre boxer motor that did duty in the old GT3 RS.

Indeed, Porsche claims that this revs-right-up-to-900rpm engine now delivers 383kW – a number that makes the GT3 RS the most powerful road-going, naturally-aspirated 911 ever built. Respect. Maximum speed is a claimed 312km/h. Expect to hit 100km/h in 3.2-seconds thanks to the savagely quick PDK gearbox, which is, at this stage, the only transmission available for the RS.

On the chassis side of things highlights include a re-calibrated rear-axle steering system as well as new ball joints inspired by the mighty GT2 RS. The Porsche Clubsport package is a no-cost option that, when ticked, bolts in a roll-over bar, manual fire extinguisher, preparation for a battery-disconnect switch plus a six-point safety-harness.

If this doesn't sound racy enough then you can always specify the optional Weissach package for increased weight reduction and extra track-side kudos. For a yet-to-be-confirmed price it'll add in additional carbon-fibre components for the chassis, interior and exterior, as well as optional magnesium wheels. In its lightest configuration, this package slashes the weight of the 911 GT3 RS down to 1 430kg.

So how much will it set me back, you ask? Well with a 3-year/100 000km Drive Plan the new 911 GT3 RS commands R3 220 000. – Thomas Falkiner