Porsche unveils sportier 2010 911 GT3 RS
Hot on the heels of introducing its latest 911 Turbo model, Porsche has unveiled details and photos of its 2010 911 GT3 RS. The new model gets a host of upgrades that should make it even more potent, including an additional horsepower from a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter flat-six (previously 3.6-liter) that brings total output to 450 bhp –15 more than its GT3 counterpart. As expected, power is routed through a six-speed manual transmission with shorter ratios than the one in the GT3.
Handling has been further improved with a purpose-built PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) suspension, a wider track both front and rear made possible by larger wheel arch covers, and dynamic engine mounts that are able to adjust their stiffness and damping effect depending on driving conditions.
For the exterior, the new RS is by far the most outrageous looking car Porsche has ever built with large-and-in-charge graphics, revised front and rear fascias consistent with Porsche's current design themes, and a new carbon fiber rear wing mounted on aluminum supports. Lowering weight was also a priority, and the new GT3 RS gets an optional lithium-ion battery that saves 22 pounds over the standard unit and a lightweight titanium exhaust system. Pricing is listed as $132,800 for the U.S., with an official introduction coming at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
[Source: Porsche]
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.
