August 28, 2024
SEVEN CAR LOUNGEThe New GT3 R rennsport
The new Porsche 911 GT3 R rennsport offers the experience of driving a nine-eleven-based racing car in what is probably the most primal form.
This limited-edition, track-only 911 GT3 R Rennsport is what the German automaker unveiled on the first day of Rennsport Reunion 7 at Laguna Seca. Due to the severe improvements, comes with a seven-figure price tag for its high-performance build.
Redesigned from the renowned race vehicle of the same name from the 1970s, the contemporary 935 is the replacement for the 911 GT3 R Rennsport. With just the bonnet and roof as common body panels, the improved car is the creation of the Style Porsche team and is based on the current 992-generation 911 GT3 R. It's completely brand new, everything else. More contoured bodywork, bigger air intakes, and, most importantly, a massive rear wing akin to the Brumos 935/77 characterize the resultant speed monster. A digital camera system has taken the place of the side-view mirrors on the 911 GTR R Rennsport, as it isn't street legal. Finally, a set of 18-inch BBS wheels with central locking that are wrapped in Michelin racing tires made specifically for this model completes the look.
The GT3 R Rennsport defies the regulations in FIA racing, where power is one of the primary limitations. Both the ordinary GT3 R and the Rennsport share the same 4.2-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine. This means that the engine can produce 557 horsepower instead of the GT3 R's limited output. Via a six-speed sequential gearbox, this power is output to the rear wheels. With an increased gear ratio in the sixth gear and redesigned shift paddles on the wheel, the GT3 R Rennsport outperforms the GT3 R by 12 mph at the top end.
A few other changes have also been made to the interior, such as the placement of two displays to either side of the driver, which eliminates the need for the inconvenient physical wing mirrors and gives them a direct feed from the two fender-mounted cameras. Complementing the color-adjustable headlamps is the ambient lighting indoors.All safety measures are FIA-compliant. however because of the way the roll cage was made, Porsche could only fit one seat.
The space surrounding the side fins and flics was also accented visually by the designers. For protection against collision damage from the outside, a side cowl now frames them. The unconventional design of the front wheel arches' air intake and outlet plates highlights the updated look.
With only 77 units set to be built, this extremely specialised model will no doubt be on the list for Porsche’s most enthusiastic collectors, especially those wanting the closest thing to their own GT3 racing car.