A new RS? Didn’t we reach the pinnacle with the last model? But we couldn’t stop thinking about it. It kindled our ambition. We defined a lap time that seemed impossible even for a 911 GT3 RS. Now we know better.

Based on the 911 GT3, it had the best starting point. The task set for our engineers was clearly defined: more power, higher performance and faster lap times.

To increase engine power, the air intake system was reviewed and improved using a new air filter. The result is a vehicle for maximum performance powered by a six-cylinder Boxer engine with 3.8-litre displacement and enhanced VarioCam timing.

The performance figures: 331 kW (450 hp) at 7,900 rpm. Maximum torque is 430 Nm at 6,750 rpm. Maximum revs are reached at 8,500 rpm.

Values that speak for themselves. Producing power that demands respect. From stationary, the new 911 GT3 RS can accelerate to 100 km/h in just 4.0 seconds. The maximum speed is: 310 km/h.

The transmission? Manual. Six gears. Short shift precision gear changes. The ratio of gears 1 to 5 is about 13% shorter than in the 911 GT3. For better acceleration and more torque. Instead of a dual-mass flywheel, the new 911 GT3 RS uses a single-mass flywheel which is lighter and allows the engine to rev more freely.

Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is set for even higher performance than in the 911 GT3. Height, camber and toe-angle, and the front and rear axle stabilisers, can be adjusted individually for use on the racetrack. In addition, the wishbone on the rear axle of the new 911 GT3 RS is split so that camber can be set even more precisely to meet the demands of motorsport.

The new dynamic engine mounts are fitted as standard in the 911 GT3 RS. This system reduces the vibration and movement of the power unit by changing the damping and stiffness of the engine mounts. For a noticeable increase in driving dynamics.

The excellent driving stability is down to Porsche Stability Management (PSM), which includes two control systems, Stability Control (SC) and Traction Control (TC). However, if you want to perfect your driving skills on the racetrack, PSM can be disabled completely in two stages.

The 19-inch GT3 wheels with central locking device and ‘RS’ logo are fitted with road-legal sports tyres. Compared to the 911 GT3, the tyres are wider on the front and back and have a smaller offset on the front and rear axle. This increases the toe angle by 12 mm and 30 mm, resulting in even greater stability. And so even higher performance levels.

In addition to power and precision, an essential consideration when designing the 911 GT3 RS was, of course, lightweight construction. A weight-to-power ratio of only 3.0 kg/hp has been achieved thanks to the use of materials taken directly from motorsport, including titanium, aluminium and carbon. The new 911 GT3 RS also has lightweight door panels and a rear window made from a synthetic material. For the first time, Porsche is offering an optional lithium-ion battery, thus saving another 10 kg.

Developing a driving machine like the new 911 GT3 RS also means taking responsibility. Firstly, for the driver’s safety. As in the 911 GT3, the braking system has been improved – the new composite brake discs with aluminium monobloc calipers are highly efficient. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) is available as an option. The Clubsport package and the sports bucket seats with the ‘RS 3.8’ logo on the headrests are standard.

More power. Greater driving dynamics. Less weight. Not an easy task. And all just for a few tenths of a second less. Because to you – and to us – they mean everything.