The Capabilities of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is known as one of the fastest cars around the Nürburgring Nordschleife. But can it deliver similar results on the Top Gear test track?

To answer this question, Top Gear put the latest GT3 RS to the test.

The results showed the GT3 RS clocked a lap time of 1 minute 14.8 seconds.
This beats the Dodge Viper ACR and McLaren 600LT, and is 1.3 seconds faster than the previous generation 991.1 911 GT3 RS. However, it fell short of the McLaren 675LT, Porsche’s own 911 GT2 RS (which recorded times in the 1:13 range), and the Ferrari 488 Pista (1:12.7).

Features and Performance of the GT3 RS

The latest GT3 RS employs aerodynamics that generate even greater downforce than its predecessor. However, the Top Gear test track, Dunsfold Aerodrome, has few high-speed corners where this downforce can be fully utilized. Additionally, the track features many long straights, favoring cars with more power.

That said, the GT3 RS is not slow on the straights.

It is powered by a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine delivering 525 horsepower and 465 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. This engine is highly praised for producing one of the best sounds among modern sports cars and stands as a prime example of Porsche’s exceptional internal combustion engineering.

Test Track Characteristics and GT3 RS Performance

At Dunsfold Aerodrome, the GT3 RS’s massive downforce advantage is limited by the scarcity of high-speed corners. Meanwhile, the multiple long straights favor cars with higher power output.

During the test, there was a light rain shower, but it apparently did not significantly affect the lap times. Still, it cannot be ruled out that the GT3 RS could have posted even faster times under dry conditions.

Positioning and Evaluation of the GT3 RS

While the GT3 RS doesn’t match the power of the GT2 RS or other supercars, it was developed with a focus on circuit performance. Its astonishing Nürburgring lap times prove its high potential.

Although the GT3 RS may not have been able to fully showcase its capabilities on the Top Gear test track, it is still worthy of praise for beating the previous model’s time.

Ultimately, the GT3 RS remains an attractive choice for Porsche owners who enjoy track days and circuit driving. It embodies Porsche’s philosophy of pursuing not just power, but balanced performance and driving pleasure.