Porsche 911 RSR – new race car based on the 991

Porsche has developed a new GT race car for the World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the Le Mans 24 Hours. And since the new 911 RSR honours a special anniversary, from a bird’s eye perspective, the numbers 50 and 911 are visible. These of course stand for 50 years of the Porsche 911.

The new Porsche 911 RSR, based on the seventh-gen 911, follows in the footsteps of its successful predecessor, the 911 GT3 RSR. As with the production car, the wheelbase grows by about 10 cm. A new wishbone front suspension replaces the McPherson struts.

Another new development is the lightweight six-speed racing gearbox, controlled via steering paddles. The 460 hp, 4.0 litre six-cylinder boxer engine is carried over from its predecessor and optimised in detail.

One of the priorities in the development of the new 911 RSR was to make the weight distribution more evenly balanced. The centre of gravity is also significantly lower in this latest RSR.

Carbon fibre played a crucial role – the mudguards, lids, doors, underbody, wheel arches, rear wing, dashboard and centre console are constructed from CF. Also contributing to the weight loss are the lithium-ion battery from the GT road-legal models and polycarbonate windows.

The look of the new 911 RSR is dominated by the flared mudguards and the deep cooling air intakes at the front. With the new air ducting, the radiator is now centrally-located and more effective. At the same time, the cockpit air conditioning becomes more efficient.

The quick-change concept of the body parts was specially adapted for endurance racing, allowing for easier maintenance and shorter repair times. The front end, front lid and rear panel are fitted with quick release systems and can be replaced within seconds.

The Porsche AG Team Manthey works squad will field two Porsche 911 RSRs in the 2013 season.

Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.