Porsche 911 GT3 RS Review (997.2): A Homage To Driving Pleasure With A Le Mans-Derived Engine

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is a car that redefines what it means to blur the lines between road and track. With its motorsport-derived roots, this track-focused machine is an engineering masterpiece that offers pure driving thrill. In this review article, we take a detailed look at this gorgeous 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS listed by Approved Automotive on DubiCars.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Review

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Here are five unique highlights that elevate the 911 GT3 RS apart:

  1. Second-Generation Evolution: The first gen 911 GT3 was launched in 1999 as a homologation special that enabled Porsche to compete in the FIA GT3 Cup. However, the more hardcore RS version of it only came out in 2003. This specific model is part of the 997.2 generation, produced between 2010 and 2011, making it a relatively rare gem. Read all about the generations of the Porsche 911 here.
  2. Endurance Racing-Ready From The Factory: The 997.2 generation GT3 RS offered racecar-like performance and reliability straight out of the factory. In fact, in a remarkable showcase of reliability, Porsche’s test drivers entered near-stock 997.2 GT3 RS models in the grueling 2011 12 Hours of Nürburgring. These cars were driven to the race, competed, and driven back! Point proven.
  3. Lightweight Engineering: Weighing just under 1,370 kg, courtesy of carbon fiber panels, lightweight glass, and magnesium wheels, the GT3 RS means business when it comes to power-to-weight ratio.
  4. Aerodynamic Mastery: The massive rear wing isn’t merely for aesthetic purposes. It delivers significant downforce, keeping the car glued to the tarmac and ensuring stability at high speeds.
  5. Track-Ready Suspension: The adjustable dampers, solid mounts, and widened track ensure razor-sharp handling and the flexibility to tailor the car to specific race circuits.

Design & Styling

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS combines classic 911 proportions with a motorsport edge, blending the evergreen 911 silhouette with aggressive aerodynamics. Up front, The widened stance and black lower lip hint at the car’s motorsport pedigree, while the signature circular headlamps and clean hood lines maintain its timeless 911 charm. 

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Review - Design

The bold ‘RS livery’ with the chequered flag graphics is what sets the RS apart from the GT3 and the standard Porsche 911. The car rides on classy lightweight 19-inch magnesium alloy wheels finished in a shade of silver while the red brake calipers add contrast against the white body colour. At the rear are the signature 911 tail lamps, GT3 RS badging, and centrally positioned twin exhaust tips. 

Interior & Features

The GT3 RS is a no-nonsense driver’s car, and the interior reflects this ethos. It’s all about enhancing the connection between driver and machine. The interior is stripped of frills. It doesn’t even get door levers, making do with flimsy but lightweight straps instead! 

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Review - Interior

Carbon-fiber bucket seats hug the driver and passenger, ensuring support during high-speed cornering. Alcantara dominates the cabin, covering the steering wheel, gear shifter, and door handles for a tactile connection to the car. 

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Review - Interior

There’s no flashy infotainment system or excessive tech. Instead, you get a basic media player. It features the iconic Porsche instrument cluster with four gauges flanking the analog rev counter prominently displayed at the center. The integrated roll cage and RS 3.8 logos stitched into the seats are subtle yet powerful reminders of the car’s racing DNA.

Engine & Performance

Under the rear hood lies the heart of the GT3 RS lie — a 3.8-litre naturally aspirated flat-six engine. A masterpiece of Porsche’s engineering, it’s considered one of the greatest sports car engines of all time. It is based on the 3.6-litre engine of the previous gen GT3 RS which in turn was loosely based on the engine that powered the legendary Porsche GT1 Le Mans racecar. 

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Review - Engine & Performance

Producing 444hp and 430Nm, it rockets from 0 to 100km/h in just 4 seconds, with a top speed of 310km/h. The short-throw 6-speed manual gearbox offers unparalleled engagement, turning every drive into a thrilling event. A race-derived suspension setup and limited-slip differential ensure sublime handling and predictable responses on any track.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Price

This 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS listed by Approved Automotive on DubiCars is priced at AED 975,000. Only 2,000 units of the 997.2 GT3 RS were produced between 2010 and 2011, making it rare and valuable. In addition, the low mileage of just 25,393 kilometres on the odo only adds to its value. Its price reflects its rarity, engineering brilliance, and track-ready capability. 

Porsche 911 GT3 RS Review Verdict

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is a celebration of unfiltered driving pleasure. As the last mostly analogue yet hardcore GT3 RS, it holds a special place in Porsche’s storied history. Whether you’re a Porsche purist or an enthusiast who values the thrill of driving, this GT3 RS is a car that’s surely on your bucket list. 

FAQs

Is the Porsche 911 GT3 RS a good car?

Absolutely, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS is a phenomenal car, blending motorsport DNA with road-going usability. Its precise engineering, thrilling performance, and raw driving dynamics make it a dream car for enthusiasts and collectors alike.

How many Porsche 911 GT3 RS were made?

Porsche produced approximately 2,000 units of the 997.2 GT3 RS between 2010 and 2011, adding to its exclusivity and appeal among collectors.

Which is better, GT3 RS or Turbo S?

The GT3 RS is better suited for track enthusiasts who crave a visceral driving experience, while the Turbo S offers greater comfort, straight-line speed, and everyday usability. Your choice depends on your driving priorities.

Is a GT2 RS better than a GT3 RS?

The GT2 RS is more powerful and faster than the GT3 RS, thanks to aggressive aerodynamics and track-oriented nature. However, the GT3 RS is often favored for its naturally aspirated engine and purer, more engaging driving experience.

Is the Porsche 911 GT3 RS fast?

Yes, the 997.2 GT3 RS is pretty fast, with a top speed of 310 km/h and a 0-100 km/h time of just 4 seconds. Its speed is matched by its incredible cornering ability and track-focused performance.

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