Porsche 997 GT3 RS 4.0

Porsche managed to trim an additional 22 lbs through the use of lightweight coil springs, alloy rear underbody diagonal struts, carbon fiber front fenders, and a carbon fiber front hood. While 22 lbs may not seem like a world of difference, when paired with the powerful 4.0-liter engine it had a more favorable power-to-weight ratio than the GT3 RSR. The GT3 RSR had the weight advantage at 2,579 lbs but was limited to 450 horsepower, whereas the 2,800 lb RS 4.0 had a 50 hp advantage- making for a weight-to-horsepower ratio of 5.6 pounds per pound versus the RSR’s 5.73.

Handling was sharpened significantly by new springs and modified rear suspension links and revisions to the aerodynamics. Dive planes on the front bumper and a steeper rear wing angle provided up to 430 pounds of downforce at the RS 4.0’s top speed of 193 mph. Dynamic Engine mounts were added at a four-pound expense, but their ability to automatically adjust the firmness to keep the engine’s mass balanced under hard cornering was deemed more beneficial than detrimental.

Production was limited to only 600 examples worldwide, all were sold within just 14 days of the initial announcement. For the lucky few that we’re able to order one new, only two colors were offered- white and black, along with a slim list of options to choose from with a base price of $185,000.

This RS 4.0 was purchased new by its first owner and has remained in as-new condition with only 57 miles on the odometer, and with the original seat coverings and protective films on the interior still intact. It was ordered with a long list of options which brought the sticker price up to $215,180. PCCB, front-axle lift, dynamic cornering lights, Sport-chrono plus, and the lightweight lithium-ion battery added to the driveability side, whereas the extended carbon package added carbon-fiber trim throughout the cabin to match the carbon-fiber bucket seats, including the air vents and seat belt outlets on the B pillars. Throughout the interior, black leather and red alcantara cover nearly every surface, with additional red alcantara added to the rear section of the center console with raised Porsche lettering on the center console lid, black alcantara trimmed sunvisors contrast the red alcantara headliner, while stitched black leather was added around the steering column. The PCM 3.0 with navigation and bluetooth integration was selected along with the Sound Package Plus option, and auto-dimming mirrors with rain sensor add modern conveniences.

The 997 generation GT cars have consistently seen an increase in desirability among collectors and enthusiasts alike, and the RS 4.0 certainly represents the pinnacle of the platform. For those who missed the tiny window to obtain one when they were released, this example is a rare opportunity to own a single owner, well-optioned, as-new 4.0 in Porsche’s launch color scheme.

Highlights:

• Single owner
• Delivery miles
• PCCB
• Front axle lift
• Dynamic cornering lights
• Sound package plus
• Sport Chrono package plus
• PCM 3.0 w/ Navigation and Bluetooth integration
• Extended carbon package