Approaching the final year of production for the beloved 997-generation, Porsche engineers explored every last possibility for the platform to deliver some of the most highly sought-after modern 911s ever created. Despite the brutally powerful GT2 RS and ultra-limited Exclusive Manufaktur Sport Classic debuting in the same period, many enthusiasts maintain the ultimate swan song for the 997 remains the GT3 RS 4.0. Featuring lightweight carbon body panels, a wider body, increased downforce, and unique suspension geometry with monoball components, the RS 4.0 offers an experience unmatched by the RS 3.8 or any other Rennsport 911 from that time.
It was also the finale for the seemingly eternal flat-six Mezger engine. Hans Mezger’s masterpiece of engineering has been located at the back of every Porsche 911 since 1964. In its various forms, it has been the powerplant for winning race cars from the Le Mans 24 Hours to the Paris-Dakar Rally. To illustrate how vitally important this engine was, the head of GT cars for Porsche, Andreas Preuninger, described the RS 4.0 as having been ‚built around the engine‘. Upgraded engine parts included a crankshaft borrowed from the 911 GT3 RSR racing car and forged titanium pistons. At four liters, it was the largest displacement 911 engine ever produced, creating 125 hp/liter with 500 total horsepower at 8,250 rpm. These are stunning numbers from a normally-aspirated engine, especially one pushing its power through a six-speed manual transmission – the last Rennsport 911 to feature three pedals and a stick. Recognized as a special, limited edition car it was also a driver’s car, and people drove them – frequently in anger at the track. In fact, all of Porsche’s marketing materials show stripped-out RS 4.0s in a blur, racing around tracks of the world, touting an extremely impressive Nürburgring lap time of 7:27.
Delivered new to Porsche Rocklin, this Carfax one-owner vehicle has lived a relatively pampered life when compared to its track-bound siblings. Offered with just under 3,000 miles, this car was the final US delivery GT3 RS 4.0 built for the American market. Finished in a Carrara White exterior with a contrasting Black/Red interior finished, with leather and Alcantara, an optional rear center console in carbon fiber provides further appeal along with a Porsche logo stitched in Red Alcantara on the lid of the storage bin. Undoubtedly a focused driver’s car, Porsche still provided some basic creature comforts like a Universal Audio Interface with Bluetooth for added enjoyment on the way to your next track day. Over ten years since its introduction, the 911 GT3 RS 4.0 remains one of Porsche’s finest Mezger-engined creations. Rare is the opportunity to purchase such a sport-focused, well-kept, low-mileage example of the breed.