First Look: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

When we first saw the last-gen Porsche 911 GT3 RS, it was bright green. And when we saw it the second time, it was bright orange. As you can see from the above photos, some things never change.

But that isn’t what’s important about the GT3 RS. Naturally, this is a more hardcore version of the already-potent GT3, and we can’t wait for our first drive. Power comes from Porsche’s 3.8-liter direct-injected flat-six, producing 450 horsepower and screaming up to a redline of 8500 rpm. (Take that, Honda S2000.) And while this is only 15 more ponies than the standard GT3, the RS’s use of lighter-weight materials will make it much more nimble through the corners. The GT3 RS also has a wider track than the standard-grade car, a re-tuned suspension, and let’s not forget about the giant carbon fiber wing out back to keep the hind quarters where they belong.

The 2010 GT3 RS will be available in the U.S. next Spring, priced from $132,800. For all of the picky details, click through the post to read Porsche’s press release.

PRESS RELEASE:

Delivering even more engine power, lower weight and shorter transmission ratios, as well as upgraded body and suspension components than all previous GT3s, the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS sets the foundation for homologating the race version of the 911 GT3 and will be introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show September 17-27, 2009.

The heart of the new, uncompromising GT3 RS is the power unit. Like the engine featured in the 911 GT3, the naturally-aspirated RS power unit now displaces 3.8 liters and delivers even more power, while revving up even faster to its 8500 rpm redline. It now delivers 450 horsepower, 15 more horsepower than its 911 GT3 counterpart. Even with a specific output of more than 118 hp per liter from the six-cylinder boxer engine, the power unit in the new GT3 RS remains fully suitable for everyday use.

The new 911 GT3 RS comes exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox optimized for short gearshift travel, low weight and high efficiency. To enhance the level of performance throughout the entire range of engine and road speed, the transmission comes with shorter ratios than found in the 911 GT3, deliberately conceding an even higher potential top track speed.

Dynamic engine mounts are standard and serve to improve the car’s handling to an even higher level. Depending on driving conditions, the mounts change in their stiffness and damping effect, improving the connection between the engine and the body when driving under very lively conditions, yet allow for more comfortable conditions during everyday street use.

Porsche is also introducing another new option in 2010 for the GT3 RS, a lithium-ion battery. Delivered with the car and, when replacing the conventional lead-acid battery, it reduces the weight by more than 10 kg or 22 lb and is mainly intended for the track.

To further improve its sporting behavior, the new 911 GT3 RS comes with a purpose-built and specially set up PASM suspension, a wider front and rear track and corresponding bodywork.

The front axle comes with nine-inch-wide wheels running on 245/35 ZR 19 sports tires while the rear axle features twelve-inch-wide wheels incorporating 325/30 ZR 19 sports tires.

The new 911 GT3 RS shows its close connection to motorsport through its dynamic looks, in particular by its low ride height, the new, extra large carbon-fiber rear wing and titanium exhaust system.

The 2010 911 GT3 RS goes on sale in the U.S. in early spring of 2010 and will be priced at $132,800.