Porsche 911 GT3 RS

FIRST DRIVE Overhaul has made track-focused two-seater even more thrilling

Upgraded 520bhp version of track legend blasts off

WHEN it comes to hardcore, trackfocused sports cars with genuine motorsport pedigree, Porsche pretty much wrote the manual. In the 15 years since the first 911 GT3 RS, the brand has created a succession of faster and fiercer models. The latest of them is this: the second-generation 991 GT3 RS.

Slammed low to the tarmac and wearing a spectacular array of wings, spoilers, air intakes and vents, it looks every inch the racer. Although obviously an evolution of the car launched in 2015, this new model appears even more aggressive. It’s more effective, too, with increased downforce to aid high-speed stability, but less drag to preserve the Porsche’s 193mph top speed.

Tucked in the RS’S tail is the same 4.0-litre flat-six found in the regular 911 GT3. Not that there’s anything run of the mill about this remarkable engine, which revs to 9,000rpm and develops 513bhp without the aid of a turbo.

It’s linked to the latest evolution of Porsche’s seven-speed PDK gearbox, which has been further honed to provide super-fast shifts. Unlike the regular GT3, there is no manual option, but by using the Race Start function the RS launches from rest to 62mph in just 3.2 seconds.

The chassis has been developed to give more feel and connection, while further boosting confidence with improved stability and traction. Spring rates are up compared with the outgoing RS, and the rear-wheel steering has been retuned to increase cornering agility.

Much attention has been paid to saving weight, with extensive use of lightweight materials. The optional Weissach Pack – which includes a carbon-fibre roof, magnesium wheels and a titanium roll cage – saves a further 30kg. All this fanatical attention to detail translates into a truly superb driving experience. One that is a much bigger step on from the outgoing RS than you would imagine possible.

As soon as you begin driving the new GT3 RS you can feel the increased connection. There’s more detail through the steering, making it fabulously responsive, with immense grip. But it’s more than matched by the rear end of the car, which has brilliant traction.

Of course, you can only truly extend it on a track, but it’s refreshing to discover that even when you’re driving at sensible speeds on the road, it is a thoroughly engaging machine; albeit one that sacrifices a little comfort to deliver such breathtaking pace and poise on a circuit.

You might expect the engine to be the standout highlight. But such is the allround brilliance of the new RS that it far from outshines the wonderful chassis. The brakes – optional PCCB carbon ceramics were fitted to the cars we drove – offer immense stopping power with plenty of feel and finesse.

The PDK gearbox is a sensational partner, too, particularly when you’re driving fast. Purists might wish the RS came with a manual, but a stick shift and clutch pedal would change the character of the GT3 and hobble its outright abilities. As a car to enjoy on road and track, it feels correct that the RS only employs a paddleshift box.

Porsches, and particularly RS versions, tend to attract eulogies, but the praise is rarely misplaced. In the case of this RS it is absolutely deserved. The product of proud and obsessive engineering, it is testament to a new pursuit that chases pure speed, engagement and enjoyment.

With the role of the driver slowly being diminished by tech, it’s thrilling to take control of a machine that’s incredibly capable and completely absorbing.