The new Porsche 991 generation is not yet ready for conversion to GT race specifications so Porsche's motorsports division has had to continue on with the old shape 997. This is not a bad thing though; just look at the success teams such as Manthey and Felbermayr-Proton have had with the car and the success seems set to continue with a host of upgrades for the 2012 model.

Built to conform to the A.C.O. "LM" GTE regulations, the new 911 GT3 RSR uses a 4.0-litre, six-cylinder boxer engine that generates 453bhp with the mandatory air restrictor in place. That power is fed to the 310mm wide rear wheels via a sequential six-speed gearbox, operated via paddles on the steering wheel.

"Our customer teams can expect a technically mature, high performance race car with which they will be highly competitive at international long distance races," assures Hartmut Kristen, Head of Porsche Motorsport. "Our test programme on various international race tracks is currently running at full speed. We are very pleased with the car's performance and driveability."

The 911 GT3 RSR can be raced at the Le Mans 24 Hours, the FIA World Endurance Championship, the Le Mans Series, the American Le Mans Series as well as the International GT Open. Examples will be delivered to customers who have stumped up the £427,000 (plus applicable taxes) asking price from January 2012.

Paul Healy - 10 Nov 2011