Production Years: 2011 | Generation: 997.2 | Units built: 600
Engine: 4.0L flat-6 | Power: 493 hp | 0 – 60 mph: 3.5 s | Top Speed: 193 mph
The last 997 Porsche and the best by far. Built to homologate the 2011 GT3 RSR racecar, the RS 4.0 is fitted with 4 liter flat six engine which raised power output from roughly 444 to 500 bhp. The GT3 RS is a collectible car already and for good reason.
When it was released in 2011 the 997.2 GT3 RS 4.0 was the most powerful and largest displacement naturally aspirated 911 ever made. The flat-six had 493bhp and the same crank as the GT3 R and RSR race cars. The 4.0-liter boxer is good for 125 PS per liter or 500 PS (493 horsepower) in total at 8,250 rpm. Yup, this is a howling lump enhanced by titanium connecting rods and a crankshaft borrowed straight from the 911 GT3 RSR racecar.
So, what is it like to drive? We let the guys at EVO magazine summarize it for us:
Stunning. Perhaps this comes as no surprise considering the starting point, but every aspect of the GT3 RS has been built on. The engine is nothing short of incredible; on the road it impresses with is flexibility and overall smoothness as much as it does with the power at the top end. If you expected a little lumpiness at lower revs, think again; it’s more tractable than the 3.8 and there’s a delicious kick as you head to 8500rpm. In terms of handling, it is noticeably sharper in its responses (and it was hardly sluggish before), but the ride remains utterly composed. Track-bred machines are not supposed to be this compliant on a B-road. Oh, and as you might expect it’s devastatingly fast across the ground too.
Airflow was being improved and numerous strengthening upgrades too. Chassis development has been influenced by the GT2 RS and uses parts from other RS 911s. Front dive planes give additional downforce upfront. The unique spring, damper, toe and camber settings along with rose joints, and liberal use of carbon makes this a lightweight 911 at just 1360kg. With a manual transmission and the last car to use the Metzger engine, it is probably our top pick on this list of top picks and is arguably the best modern 911 ever.