Porsche had promised a surprise reveal for this weekend’s Rennsport Reunion and this is it, the 911 GT3 R rennsport. The limited-run model is based on the 911 GT3 R race car and will be offered to customers. Just 77 units are bound for the production line with prices starting at $1,046,000.
The German car manufacturer refers to the new model as the successor to the modern Porsche 935. Like that car, it is distinguished from the car it is based on thanks to a thoroughly redesigned carbon fiber skin. In fact, just the hood and the roof were lifted from the GT3 R race car. Every other element of the body is unique.
Visual changes are immediately apparent at the front end where the 911 GT3 R rennsport has an overhauled fascia with a new bumper sporting enlarged air intakes and a wider stance. Porsche’s designers and engineers have also equipped it with new front wheel arches and ditched the standard wing mirrors, replacing them with digital ones. The rear of the 911 GT3 R rennsport is perhaps even more dramatic than the front.
For starters, there is a massive rear wing with a design reminiscent of that from the Brumos Porsche 935/77. The track-only model also sports a full-width LED light bar with illuminated Porsche lettering. The carmaker has not said how much downforce the car delivers.
In terms of power, the 4.2-liter naturally-aspirated six-cylinder is based on that of the race car but free from motorsport restrictions, it now revs to 9,400 rpm and churns out 620 PS (612 hp), equating to 146 hp per liter of displacement. The modified engine can run on E25 fuels and incorporates custom pistons and camshafts. Mated to this engine is a sequential six-speed constant-mesh transmission driving the rear wheels and using steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Porsche has tweaked the gear ratios of the race car to boost the Rennsport’s top speed by 20 km/h (12 mph).
Under the skin, the 911 GT3 R rennsport is much the same as the race car. This means it continues to sport five-way adjustable KW racing shocks and double wishbone suspension. A set of bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport M S9 tires have been developed for it while a set of massive AP brakes also come standard. The car also has a 117-liter (31-gallon) fuel tank and Porsche says it has managed to keep the weight down to just 1,240 kg (2,733 lbs).
Continuing on the visual front are seven available colors, including Star Ruby and Signal Orange, as well as a host of customization options. Porsche will also offer it in Agate Grey Metallic with carbon fiber bodywork. The cabin is mostly similar to the race car but does include screens for the rear-facing cameras, ambient lighting, and a roll cage.
