700 hp and 750 Nm make for a crazy-fast 911
Following the preview at the E3 last month, Porsche has officially lifted the veils off its all-new 911 GT2 RS at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Described as the "fastest and most powerful road-approved 911," the new 911 GT2 RS is powered by a 3.8-liter biturbo flat engine that makes 700 hp and 750 Nm (553 lb-ft) of torque, giving it 80 hp and 50 Nm more than the predecessor model's 3.6-liter unit.
And since it tips the scales at 1,470 kg (3,241 lb) with a full fuel tank, the 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (2.8 seconds) and reaches a top speed of 340 km/h (211 mph).
The engine builds upon the 3.8-liter unit from the 911 Turbo S, but frees up more horsepower thanks to larger turbochargers and an additional cooling system, among other tweaks. The unit is linked to a customized seven-speed double-clutch transmission (PDK) as well as a specially developed exhaust system made from extra-lightweight titanium.
Thanks to a racing chassis with rear-axle steering and Ultra High Performance (UHP) tires, the 911 GT2 RS is said to reach higher cornering speeds than ever. That's also due to the specially calibrated PSM (Porsche Stability Management) which is tailored to provide "optimal driving dynamics." Naturally, the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) are standard equipment.
Even on an extreme supercar like the 911 GT2 RS, performance can be dialed up a notch with the optional Weissach package that brings a 30-kg (66-lb) weight saving. The pack includes additional elements made from carbon fiber reinforced plastic and titanium — the roof, anti-roll bars, and the coupling rods on both axles are made from carbon. Weight is further reduced by the magnesium wheels.
Looks-wise, you won't mistake the GT2 RS for any other 911 because it sports an extreme aero kit that's impossible to ignore. The supercar features massive air intakes and outlets, as well as an imposing rear wing and large, wide wheels (265/35 ZR 20 at the front and 325/30 ZR 21 at the rear).
Some bodywork elements including the front wings, wheel housing vents, mirror caps, air intakes on the rear side sections and parts of the rear end are made from CFRP, as are many of the interior components. The engine hood is also made from carbon while the standard trim roof is built from magnesium.
Inside, the 911 GT2 RS combines red Alcantara, black leather, and carbon trim, with exclusive features including the GT2 RS sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles, full bucket seats with a carbon-weave finish, and a Porsche Track Precision app for the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) infotainment system.
The optional Chrono Package adds functions such as a performance display for track times, a stopwatch with both analog and digital display, and a lap trigger.
The 2018 Porsche 911 GT2 RS has a starting price in Germany of €285,220 (about $325,300) including VAT. The sad thing is that you may not be able to get one even if you have the money because rumor has it the entire production run is already spoken for.