Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 driven by Car magazine on video
Car magazine takes the limited-run Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0 to the track, putting its 493bhp flat-six and race-derived engineering to the test.
Car magazine has released a video review of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0, the most powerful naturally aspirated 911 of its era and the final evolution of the 997-generation GT3. Only 600 examples of this track-focused model were produced, with UK deliveries starting in July 2011.
The 4.0-litre engine is derived directly from the 911 GT3 RSR race car, sharing its crankshaft and delivering 493bhp at 8,250rpm and 339lb ft at 5,750rpm. This makes it the largest and most powerful non-turbocharged flat-six Porsche had fitted to a road car at the time. The car’s 1,360kg kerb weight and 362bhp-per-tonne power-to-weight ratio put it firmly in supercar territory.
Performance and technical highlights
Porsche claimed a 0-62mph time of 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 193mph for the GT3 RS 4.0. The car is fitted with a six-speed manual gearbox and features a suite of track-oriented upgrades, including a recalibrated version of Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and additional rear axle ball-joints for improved adjustability. The aerodynamic package, with a prominent rear wing and revised front splitter, is designed to increase downforce at speed.
| Model | Engine | Power | Torque | 0-62mph | Top speed | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 911 GT3 RS 4.0 | 3996cc NA flat-six | 493bhp | 339lb ft | 3.9s | 193mph | 1360kg | £128,466 |
| 911 GT3 RS 3.8 | 3797cc NA flat-six | 444bhp | 317lb ft | 4.0s | 192mph | 1370kg | £109,123 |
| 911 GT2 RS | 3600cc TT flat-six | 612bhp | 516lb ft | 3.5s | 205mph | 1370kg | £161,478 |
Car’s video review puts the GT3 RS 4.0 through its paces on circuit, focusing on its razor-sharp handling and engine response. The naturally aspirated motor’s high-revving character and linear delivery remain central to the car’s appeal, while the chassis’ adjustability and feedback underline its track credentials. Porsche claimed a Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time of 7 minutes 27 seconds, placing it among the fastest production cars of its day.
Production and market context
With a UK list price of £128,466 at launch, the GT3 RS 4.0 commanded a £19,343 premium over the GT3 RS 3.8. The price reflected the car’s exclusivity and its position as the swansong for the 997-generation GT3 line. Its direct engine lineage to Porsche’s endurance racers, including the GT3 RSR that won at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, added to its appeal for collectors and track-day drivers alike.
