Hot on the heels of announcing the 2010 911 Turbo for the Frankfurt Motor Show next month, Porsche has also spilled the beans on its newest hard-core, purist sports car - the next-generation 911 GT3 RS. Yes, what many consider to be the ultimate road-going Porsche 911 has just gotten more, well, ultimate. With increased power, shorter gear ratios, and a higher-tuned chassis, the new 911 GT3 RS takes extreme to a whole new level.
Based on the previous iteration, the new GT3 RS utilizes the same core flat-six engine as the previous version, but its been bored out from 3.6L to 3.8L - enough to provide an extra 15 horsepower over the standard 911 GT3, bringing output totals to a full 450 naturally-aspirated ponies. A revised, short-throw, close-ratio six-speed gearbox has been thrown in the package to produce a vehicle that revs faster and produces more dynamic acceleration traits - and higher top speed -- than the version that goes before.
But this being Porsche, the powertrain is only half the story. The newest GT3 RS has also been sharpened underneath, resulting in a wider track both front and aft, and corresponding wider bodywork. New wheels measure a full 9-in. wide up front and 12-in. wide at rear, wrapped in 245/35 ZR 19 rubber and 325/30 ZR 19 respectively. Porsche Active Drivetrain Mounts (PADM) are featured as standard, changing in stiffness and damping according to road surface and driving behavior - this resulting in reduced body roll and dive.
Even the details have been fine-tuned, with the new 911 GT3 RS featuring a larger carbon fiber rear wing and lower ride height than previous versions, along with an optional lithium-ion battery that saves weight over the conventionally lead-based version by over 22 lbs. The distinctive dual exhaust tips of the 911 GT3 RS remain a trademark feature of the new car, and as before the entire exhaust system is constructed of lightweight titanium.
The new Porsche 911 GT3 RS is slated to hit U.S. showrooms next year after a Frankfurt debut. Base price will be $132,800 exluding delivery charges.
Thanks to: Motor Trend
New Car: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS
