What the Porsche 911 GT3 RS Can Do

The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is known as one of the fastest cars ever to lap the Nürburgring Nordschleife. But can it deliver the same kind of performance on Top Gear’s test track?

To find out, Top Gear put the latest GT3 RS to the test.

It clocked a lap time of 1 minute 14.8 seconds. That was faster than the Dodge Viper ACR and McLaren 600LT, and 1.3 seconds quicker than the previous-generation 991.1 911 GT3 RS. However, it couldn’t match the McLaren 675LT, Porsche’s own 911 GT2 RS—which ran in the 1:13s—or the Ferrari 488 Pista, which posted a 1:12.7.

GT3 RS Features and Performance

The latest GT3 RS features an aerodynamic package that generates even more downforce than its predecessor. But Top Gear’s test track at Dunsfold Aerodrome has few high-speed corners where the car can fully put that downforce to work. Its long straights also tend to favor cars with more power.

That said, the GT3 RS is no slouch in a straight line.

Its 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six sends 525 horsepower and 465 Nm of torque to the rear wheels. Widely praised as one of the best-sounding engines in modern sports cars, it’s also an excellent example of Porsche’s expertise in internal-combustion engineering.

How the Test Track Shapes GT3 RS Performance

At Dunsfold Aerodrome, there are only a few high-speed corners where the GT3 RS can make the most of its enormous downforce. The track also features several long straights, which give more powerful cars an advantage.

A light shower fell during the GT3 RS test, though it reportedly wasn’t heavy enough to significantly affect the lap time. Even so, it’s possible the car could have gone faster in dry conditions.

Where the GT3 RS Stands

While the GT3 RS lacks the power of the GT2 RS and other supercars, it was developed with track driving firmly in mind. Its astonishing Nürburgring lap time is proof of its impressive potential.

The GT3 RS may not have been able to show its full capabilities on Top Gear’s test track, but it still deserves credit for beating its predecessor’s time.

Ultimately, the GT3 RS remains an appealing 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 pure driving enjoyment.