Collectors\' Motor Cars and Automobilia

MOTOR CARS | 161

Following the launch of the original Type 996 GT3, Porsche introduced
an even more track-focused variant in 2003: the GT3 RS. Standing
for RennSport (literally race sport) the RS designation referenced
that iconic first-of-the-line model of 40 years previously. 0n GT3 RS
specification, the 3.-litre Åat-six Metzger engine was up-rated,
producing around 400bhp, although the claimed output remained
unchanged at 318bhp for homologation purposes. The RS was
lighter than the 'ordinary' GT3, weigh saving measures including a
polycarbonate rear window, and carbon-fibre bonnet and rear wing,
while the stock cast-iron brake discs were replaced with ceramic
composite rotors for greater fade resistance under competition
conditions. RS suspension was adjustable, and the car ran some 3mm
lower than the stock GT3.

For 2006 the GT3 was extensively redesigned and improved on the
Type 997 platform. New features included zero lift aerodynamics and
Porsches PASM electronically adQustable active suspension system,
specially configured for track use. Porsche claimed a 0-0mph time of
4.1 seconds and a top speed of 193km/h for the new GT3. By the end of
the of year there was also an RS 'homologation special'.

Weight-saving measures similar to those seen on the Type 996 RS

were applied, while the body was wider than that of the Type 997 GT3,

accommodating an increase in rear track. A new 3.8-litre engine was

introduced on the 2nd Generation Type 997 GT3 in 2009" maximum output

increased to 429bhp, with 444 horsepower available from the RS version.

And just in case there was any doubt about the Type 997 GT3's abilities as

a competition car, in 200 Porsches official test driver, rallying ace Walter

R€hrl, lapped the spectacular N…rburgring Nordschleife circuit - widely

recognised as one of the most demanding tests of man and machine - in

an astonishing 7 minutes 42 seconds, then the equal fastest time posted

by a production car - a feat that attracted much favourable publicity.

A 2nd Generation Type 997 GT3 RS with the 444bhp engine, this left-

hand drive car has had only one owner, while noteworthy features include

an Akrapovic exhaust system, race seats, and a roll cage. A major

service was carried out by Porsche Portsmouth in 2015 (at 1,433 miles)

and the car has covered only some 1,600 miles from new. Presented in

generally excellent condition, this stunning low-mileage Porsche supercar

is offered with sundry bills and a V5C document.

£150,000 - 180,000

€170,000 - 210,000