The hallowed “RS” badge. For Porschephiles, these two letters, short for RennSport in German, which translates to Racing Sport, carry a lot of cachet. Reserved for the most extreme Porsche road cars, the RS moniker is applied only to serious track-focused models. With a considerable emphasis on weight reduction and aerodynamics, the main purpose of these machines is to excel on the race track; conquer and shatter lap times at places like the infamous Nürburgring, all while staying street legal.
Born from homologating race cars in the 1950s, the RS lineage traces its roots back to the 550 RS Spyder and 718 RSK. However, it was the 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 that solidified the RS blueprint. While several air-cooled 911s have received the RS treatment (964 Carrera SCRS and 993 Carrera RS), this heritage was reignited in the modern era in 2003 with the water-cooled 996 911 GT3 RS. It introduced lightweight construction and advanced chassis control for track enthusiasts.
Under Andreas Preuninger, Porsche’s GT chief, the team over at Weissach has consistently pushed the limit for the past two decades, resisting turbocharging. Instead, Porsche has diligently stuck with a high-revving, naturally aspirated engine philosophy. This signature formula has now evolved into the 4.0-liter flat-six engine, and remains a benchmark for performance, track speed, and exceptional driving dynamics. It is this philosophy that makes any Porsche 911 GT3 RS so desirable. Let’s explore all six models of the 911 GT3 RS in detail, special editions, the current market trends, and what potential buyers and collectors should look for.
996 GT3 RS (2003–2004): The First 911 GT3 RS
- Current Avg. Price Range: $206,762 (Classic.com)
- Trend: Stable
- Notes: Values have risen steadily, with further scope to grow due to rarity, motorsport pedigree, and raw, analog appeal
- Recent Sale Highlight: A pristine 996 GT3 RS Clubsport sold on BaT in March 2025 for $211,000
Introduced in 2003, the 996.2 GT3 RS is a homologation special, built to comply with international GT racing rules. Packing the same 3.6-liter Mezger flat-six mill as the GT3 from the time, it produces 381 horsepower and 284 pound-feet of torque. It also features a lighter single-mass flywheel for sharper throttle response. Paired with a close-ratio 6-speed manual, 0-60 mph comes up in 4.4 seconds, and the top speed is rated at 190 mph.
Built for the race track, the car’s weight-saving measures were substantial, with a carbon fiber hood, rear spoiler, and polycarbonate rear window. When equipped with the optional Clubsport package, it further reduced weight by about 110 pounds. Suspension upgrades include a 0.4-inch lower ride, stiffer springs and dampers, more negative camber, and revised geometry for enhanced driving stability. Air vents and arch vents optimized brake cooling.
Visually, the 996 GT3 RS features the controversial fried-egg headlights, but stands out with its white paint with red or blue accents and wheels that pay homage to classic RS models. With production limited to just 682 units, none of which were destined for the U.S. market, the 996.2 GT3 RS is very exclusive, with its desirability and collectibility growing among collectors.
996 GT3 RS Specs
| Engine Displacement | 3.6 L |
| Engine Configuration | Naturally aspirated flat-6 (Mezger) |
| Horsepower | 381 hp @ 7,400 rpm |
| Torque | 284 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Curb Weight | 2,998 lbs |
| 0–60 mph | 4.4 seconds |
| Top Speed | 190 mph |
997.1 GT3 RS (2006–2009): Wider and Wilder
- Current Avg. Price Range: $236,663 (Classic.com)
- Trend: Rising
- Notes: Demand has been steady. Cars with original paint, low mileage, and rare specs (e.g., RS Green or Orange) still command strong premiums
- Recent Sale Highlight: A low-mileage green with black RS graphics 997.1 GT3 RS sold on BaT in March 2024 for $498,000
The 997.1 marked the first time a 911 GT3 RS was officially offered in the United States. Debuting in 2006, it featured an updated version of the naturally aspirated 3.6-liter flat-six Mezger from the 997 GT3, now rated at 409 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. Power goes to the rear wheels through a close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox. The lighter flywheel components reduce rotational mass for a sharper throttle response. Porsche quoted 0-60 mph in about 4.0 seconds, though independent tests clocked it closer to 3.9, with a top speed of 193 mph.
Weighing 3,031 pounds, the 997 GT3 RS sheds around 44 pounds compared to the standard GT3, thanks to features like a lightweight plastic rear window and an adjustable carbon-fiber rear wing. It also borrows the wider body type. The flared wheel arches from the Carrera 4 (1.73 inches wider), and wider rear tires enhance high-speed stability and cornering grip. The 997.1 was the first GT3 RS to offer Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which adjusts the damping force on each wheel based on road conditions, steering input, and driving mode in real time.
As for the exterior, the 997.1 GT3 RS stands out with bold side decals and vibrant paint options like green and orange. The optional Clubsport package (not available in the U.S.) added track-focused equipment, including carbon-fiber bucket seats, a rear seat delete, roll cage, fire extinguisher, and battery kill switch. Clearly, the cabin is aimed at drivers who care more about lap times, above everything else. Production numbers vary by source, but sources cite ~1,150, highlighting the car’s exclusivity and enthusiast appeal.
* Fun fact: Richard Hammond famously drove a green 997.1 GT3 RS in a TopGear Special feature, where the trio took on the Stelvio Pass.
997.1 GT3 RS Specs
| Engine Displacement | 3.6 L |
| Engine Configuration | Naturally aspirated flat-6 (Mezger) |
| Horsepower | 415 hp @ 7,600 rpm |
| Torque | 300 lb-ft @ 5,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Curb Weight | 3,031 lbs |
| 0–60 mph | 4.0 seconds |
| Top Speed | 193 mph |
997.2 GT3 RS (2009–2011): More Power, More Focus
- Current Avg. Price Range: $246,159 (Classic.com) +2.1%
- Trend: Stable to Slightly Rising
- Notes: Considered the sweet spot between analog feel and modern performance. Strong buyer interest in low-mile, non-modified cars
- Recent Sale Highlight: A low-mileage Gray with Red accents 997.1 GT3 RS sold on BaT in Jan 25 for $329,000
The 997.2 GT3 RS debuted in 2010 as a sharper, more aggressive evolution of its predecessor, pushing the limits of what a street-legal track car could be. It features an enlarged naturally aspirated 3.8-liter Mezger flat-six, now making 450 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, a 41-horsepower bump over the 997.1 RS. A close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission continues to do duty. 0–60 mph is slightly quicker at 3.8 seconds, while top speed remains the same at 193 mph.
Weighing in at approximately 3,020 pounds, the 997.2 GT3 RS benefited from further weight optimization, including a carbon-fiber rear wing, a polycarbonate rear window, and a titanium rear exhaust system. The suspension was thoroughly reworked with revised dampers, stiffer springs, and solid rear subframe bushings. Wider front and rear tracks and 19-inch center-lock wheels paid dividends on the race track.
While it received a redesigned front splitter and vented front fenders, the 997.2 continued to stand out with bold color combinations, gray with red or green accents, which are iconic. As before, the Clubsport package added fixed-back carbon-fiber racing seats, a roll cage, and other track-focused safety gear. Approximately just 1,500 units were produced, securing its status as a modern classic.
997.2 GT3 RS Specs
| Engine Displacement | 3.8 L |
| Engine Configuration | Naturally aspirated flat-6 (Mezger) |
| Horsepower | 444 hp @ 7,900 rpm |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft @ 6,250 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Curb Weight | 3,020 lbs |
| 0–60 mph | 3.8 seconds |
| Top Speed | 193 mph |
991.1 GT3 RS (2016–2017): The PDK Era Begins
- Current Avg. Price Range: $196,101 (Classic.com)
- Trend: Slightly Down
- Notes: Values dropped ~4% through 2023 and have remained mostly flat since. Weissach Package cars and PTS examples still command premiums
- Mileage Sensitivity: Drops after 10k–12k miles, with diminished price penalties
- Recent Sale Highlight: A Lava Orange 991.1 GT3 RS sold on BaT on April 25 for $206,000
When it launched in 2015, the 991.1 GT3 RS marked a major technological leap forward as it was a model for many firsts. Moving on from the iconic Mezger architecture, it introduced Porsche’s all-new 4.0-liter flat-six, with 500 horsepower and 338 pound-feet of torque. Also, for the first time in a GT3 RS, a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission came standard. With lightning-fast shifts, 60 mph comes up in just 3.1 seconds, with a top speed of 193 mph. Another first for the GT3 RS platform was the functional side air intakes, which channel air to cool the engine bay and enhance intake airflow for the 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six.
With the shift to PDK-only transmissions, Porsche introduced Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, which works by selectively braking the inside rear wheel and using an electronically controlled rear differential lock. Besides the motorsport-derived chassis and rear-axle steering, the use of lightweight materials is substantial. You get a magnesium roof, carbon fiber front fenders, and a polycarbonate rear window. But with the additional hardware, the 991.1 GT3 RS weighs more than its predecessors at 3,131 pounds.
However, as noted above, it was nearly 0.8 seconds quicker to 60. Center-lock wheels wrapped in ultra-wide tires and massive vented front fenders improved both grip and cooling.You could choose from GT3 RS-exclusive colors like Lava Orange and Ultraviolet. You get aggressive aero components, including a functional front splitter, side skirts, and a towering rear wing. The cockpit is business as usual, with carbon-fiber bucket seats, fabric door pulls, and optional Clubsport features like a roll cage and racing harnesses. The 991.1 GT3 RS fused track-honed capability with cutting-edge performance tech, with around 4,520 units built globally.
991.1 GT3 RS Specs
| Engine Displacement | 4.0 L |
| Engine Configuration | Naturally aspirated flat-6 (DFI) |
| Horsepower | 500 hp @ 8,250 rpm |
| Torque | 338 lb-ft @ 6,250 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-speed PDK dual-clutch |
| Curb Weight | 3,131 lbs |
| 0–60 mph | 3.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | 193 mph |
991.2 GT3 RS (2018–2019): Refining the Formula
- Current Avg. Price Range: $238,816 (Classic.com)
- Trend: Stable
- Notes: Widely praised for performance and daily usability. Weissach Package cars are becoming rarer on the market. Only 25% of current listings have it
- Recent Sale Highlight: A Lizard Green 991.1 GT3 RS sold on BaT in Feb 25 for $262,000
Unveiled two years later in 2018, the 991.2 GT3 RS is more refined, more focused, and more extreme. Its 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six received internal upgrades to produce 513 horsepower and 346 pound-feet of torque. With the lightning-quick 7-speed PDK gearbox, the dash to 60 mph happens in just 3.0 seconds, but top speed remains consistent at 193 mph.
Weighing around 3,153 pounds, the GT3 RS made generous use of carbon fiber reinforced plastics for the front lid, front wings, and interior trim. Aerodynamics were significantly reworked, including a wider front track, functional NACA ducts, and a revised front bumper and rear diffuser to improve airflow and cooling. The rear wing was taller and more aggressive, generating 1,292 pounds of downforce.
Inside, it maintains a motorsport-driven minimalism: lightweight door pulls and extensive Alcantara. Carbon-finish paddle shifters and trim pieces completed the track-ready aesthetic. The optional Weissach Package further added carbon-backed bucket seats borrowed from the 918 Spyder, a titanium roll cage (Euro-spec only), a carbon fiber roof, carbon stabilizer bars, coupling rods, and optional magnesium wheels; the latter alone shaving nearly 24 pounds. With over 4,000 units produced globally, the 991.2 GT3 RS was a fitting farewell to the 991 generation.
991.2 GT3 RS Specs
| Engine Displacement | 4.0 L |
| Engine Configuration | Naturally aspirated flat-6 (DFI) |
| Horsepower | 513 hp @ 8,250 rpm |
| Torque | 346 lb-ft @ 6,250 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-speed PDK dual-clutch |
| Curb Weight | 3,153 lbs |
| 0–60 mph | 3.0 seconds |
| Top Speed | 193 mph |
992 GT3 RS (2022–Present): Aero Dominance
- Current Avg. Price Range: $405,616 (Classic.com)
- Trend: Softening
- Notes: New MSRP hovers around $240k–$260k with options, but dealer markups and hype pushed values over $400k. As more cars hit the market, prices are normalizing
- Recent Sale Highlight: A white 911 GT3 RS Tribute with green accents, sold on BaT for 424,242
The 992 GT3 RS took track performance to an entirely new level when it debuted in 2022. It retains the 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six, but thanks to even more aggressive tuning, it delivers 518 horsepower and 342 pound-feet of torque. Coupled with a lightning-fast 7-speed PDK and active aero, it launches from 0–60 mph in just 3.0 seconds. The top speed is 184 mph, lower than the standard 992 GT3’s due to its extreme downforce setup.
The 992 RS became the very first model to offer active aerodynamics. With a towering swan-neck rear wing featuring an F1-style DRS system, active front aero flaps, and a reprofiled underbody, it generates up to 1,895 pounds of downforce at 177 mph. Extensive use of carbon fiber reinforced plastic in the doors, fenders, roof, and interior keeps curb weight to just 3,268 pounds.
The chassis offers race-grade adjustability, with damper compression, rebound, camber, and toe settings all configurable via steering wheel-mounted controls. The Weissach Package ups the ante with additional carbon fiber, optional magnesium wheels, and exposed carbon trim. Inside, the 992 RS is both stripped-down and tech-focused. While production numbers are significantly higher compared to older GT3 RS models, the 992.1 generation remains one of the most aerodynamically advanced and track-capable naturally aspirated 911s that Porsche has ever built.
992.1 GT3 RS Specs
| Engine Displacement | 4.0 L |
| Engine Configuration | Naturally aspirated flat-6 (DFI) |
| Horsepower | 518 hp @ 8,500 rpm |
| Torque | 346 lb-ft @ 6,300 rpm |
| Transmission | 7-speed PDK dual-clutch |
| Curb Weight | 3,268 lbs |
| 0–60 mph | 3.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 184 mph |
Special Limited Editions and Manthey Editions
997GT3 RS 4.0 (2011)
Built as a swan song for the legendary Mezger engine, the 997.2 GT3 RS 4.0 is often hailed as one of the greatest 911s of all time. At its heart lies a 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six, the largest-displacement Mezger ever built, pushing out 500 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. It revs to 8,500 rpm and rockets from 0–60 mph in 3.8 seconds, and has a top speed of 193 mph. The RS 4.0 shares much of its lightweight hardware with the 3.8 RS, but takes things further with a carbon-fiber front hood, lightweight carpeting, and the deletion of sound insulation. Curb weight is just 2,998 pounds. Aerodynamic enhancements include dive planes on the front bumper and a reworked rear wing to increase downforce and stability at speed.
The chassis was dialed in for maximum feedback, featuring adjustable dampers, revised suspension geometry, and dynamic engine mounts. Porsche also incorporated select components from the GT2 RS and 911 GT3 RSR race car to boost rigidity and track performance. Limited to just 600 units worldwide, nearly all GT3 RS 4.0s came in Carrara White with signature gray graphics and red accents, but PTS colors (only 39 examples) were offered to select customers. A numbered plaque above the glovebox proudly displays its exclusivity. Given its motorsport DNA and limited production number, the RS 4.0 is widely regarded as highly exclusive and the ultimate analog driver’s 911.
911 GT3 RS Tribute to Carrera RS
Porsche’s U.S.-only “Tribute to Carrera RS” edition of the 992 GT3 RS honors the 50th anniversary of the iconic 1973 911 Carrera RS 2.7. This special model pays homage to the classic 911, with a striking gloss white exterior, contrasted by bold Python Green accents on the mirror caps, wheels, side decals, and rear wing endplates, which is a modern interpretation of the original’s livery. Based on a 992.1 GT3 RS and equipped with the Weissach Package, it comes with magnesium wheels, carbon fiber components, and a titanium roll cage for reduced weight and improved rigidity.
Inside, the cabin features commemorative badging, green stitching, and exclusive trim that nods to its historic predecessor. Performance remains identical to the standard GT3 RS, with 518 horsepower from a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six, but the visual and symbolic touches make it a collector’s piece. Priced at $312,550, the Tribute to Carrera RS is a tasteful blend of Porsche’s racing heritage and modern engineering that serves as a perfect nod to Alwin Springer’s motorsport legacy. Springer is a highly respected figure in Porsche motorsport history, particularly known for his pivotal role in developing and managing Porsche’s racing efforts in North America. Porsche also made a one-off 992 GT3 RS that paid tribute to legendary Swiss racing driver Jo Siffert, who was a 917 ace back in the 1960s.
Manthey Performance Editions
Manthey Racing, the Porsche-owned motorsport independent specialists based at the Nürburgring, is renowned for its success in endurance racing and track engineering. They offer factory-backed performance kits for both the 991.2 and 992-generation Porsche 911 GT3 RS, bringing motorsport-grade upgrades to road-legal track cars. Besides the performance benefits, Manthey equipped GT3 RS command a premium on the secondary market. These kits include upgraded suspension components such as solid ball joints, reinforced chassis bearings, and fully adjustable coilovers. Aerodynamic enhancements like carbon-fiber rear aero discs, a larger rear wing, underbody splitters, and airflow-optimizing deflectors significantly increase high-speed stability.
With the full Manthey setup (~$116,161), the 992 GT3 RS produces up to 2,200 pounds of downforce at 177 mph (up from 1,895 pounds of the stock car), rivaling the downforce of true race cars. High-friction brake pads improve endurance performance, while optional 3- and 4-way adjustable dampers offer track-specific customization. Available since 2023 through 45 certified Porsche Centers in the U.S., the Manthey Racing kit transforms the GT3 RS into a razor-sharp, track-dominating machine with road-legal capability.
Auction Stars: Which 911 GT3 RS Models Sell Best?
Porsche Buying Guide
At auction, not all GT3 RS models perform equally. As already cited, factors like production numbers, powertrain, mileage, factory options, and standout colors, paint-to-sample colors, Sonderwunsch (Special Wishes) models, heavily influence sale prices. Here’s a more comprehensive look at which generations of GT3 RS pack potential and consistently fetch the highest values.
1. 997.2 GT3 RS 4.0 (2011): Peak Mezger Power
Widely considered the holy grail of GT3 RS models, the 997.2 GT3 RS 4.0 regularly commands six-figure results at auction. Limited to just 600 units globally and powered by the largest displacement Mezger flat-six (4.0L, 500 horsepower) by Hans Mezger. This is a model that blends rarity with performance.
- Top sale: $748,000 (Gooding & Co., Pebble Beach 2022)
- Average range: $550,000 to $700,000 for low-mile, well-optioned cars
- Best colors: Carrara White with red or black graphics
(Source: Gooding & Company, Hagerty Valuation Tools)
2. 996 GT3 RS (2003–2005): European Rarity, U.S. Rarity
Never sold in the U.S., the 996 GT3 RS was built in extremely limited numbers (~682 cars). Collectors prize its raw, analog feel and early adoption of Porsche’s track-focused ethos.
- Recent sales: $250,000–$330,000 depending on mileage and originality
- Desirable specs: Lightweight Clubsport package, matching engine/gearbox numbers
- Colors: White with or red decals, or even rare blue accents (only 200-250 units)
(Source: Collecting Cars, RM Sotheby’s)
3. 991.2 GT3 RS (2018–2019): Weissach + PCCB = Premium
While higher production numbers mean more availability, specific optioned examples of the 991.2 GT3 RS have become auction favorites. The Weissach Package (carbon roof, magnesium wheels) in particular adds serious value, as does Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) and 911 GT3 RS models with Paint-to-Sample (PTS) colors.
- Top sale: $434,000 for a highly optioned 991.2 GT3 RS Weissach, delivered to the White Collection (RM Sotheby’s)
- Typical sale range: $250,000–$300,000 for sub-5,000-mile examples with full documentation
- Hot colors: PTS shades (e.g., Voodoo Blue, Ultraviolet), Lizard Green
(Source: Bring a Trailer, PCARMARKET, Hagerty Insider)
4. 992 GT3 RS (2022–Present): Aero and Exclusivity
As the newest and most extreme GT3 RS yet, the 992 brings F1-style DRS, a giant swan-neck wing, and motorsport-level aero. Despite its newness, certain spec combinations are already commanding auction premiums.
- Early auctions: $350,000+ for Weissach and PTS models
- Desirable features: Weissach Package, magnesium wheels, limited-edition trims (e.g., Tribute to Carrera RS)
- Colors to watch: Python Green, Arctic Grey, PTS
(Source: Bring a Trailer, Porsche Club of America, Road & Track)
What to Look for Before Buying a Porsche 911 GT3 RS
Buying a Porsche 911 GT3 RS requires more than just checking mileage and condition—it’s about understanding the car’s history, options, and mechanical health. Here are the key factors to consider:
- DME Report: This digital engine log shows over-rev events. GT3 RS engines are robust, but over-revs in higher ranges (4 – 6) may indicate abuse. Always request this report from the seller or a Porsche specialist.
- Coolant Line and Mezger Engine Issues: On 996 and 997.1 models, check whether the coolant lines have been pinned or welded, as failure can be catastrophic. Mezger engines are legendary but not immune to neglect.
- Service Records: A well-documented maintenance history, ideally at a Porsche Center or reputable independent, adds serious value. Look for regular oil changes, clutch checks, and suspension service.
- Matching Numbers: Collectors prize matching engine and gearbox numbers. Use Porsche’s VIN database or consult with a dealer or expert with PIWIS access to verify.
- Tires and Track Use: Check for uneven wear or mismatched tires, which can suggest aggressive driving. If tracked, look for upgraded pads, rotors, and alignment data.
- Specialist Inspection: Always get a PPI (Pre-Purchase Inspection) from a Porsche-authorized center or a marque-specific specialist like those affiliated with motorsport-prepped tuners.
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS market remains robust across generations, especially as Porsche purists increasingly prioritize analog performance. Although production has scaled, the purity of its high-revving naturally aspirated engine, analog steering wheel feedback, and chassis tuned for actual driving conditions, which you encounter only on a race track, keeps collector interest red-hot. With insight, planning, and access to expert buying guides, RS ownership remains one of Porsche’s biggest sweet spots.
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS continues to define what a road‑legal track car can be, marrying analogue driving purity with relentless performance. While production volumes have grown in recent generations, true track enthusiast and collector demand remains insatiable, particularly for the Mezger‑powered 996 and 997 variants. By understanding the nuances of rarity, and unique specification, buyers and sellers can navigate this niche market effectively, ensuring that each GT3 RS finds its rightful place in the hands of those who cherish its racing soul.
Image Source: Porsche
FAQs
Q. What is a clubsport package?
A.The Clubsport Package is a factory-optioned track-focused package offered by Porsche on select high-performance 911 models, especially GT-series cars like the 911 GT3, GT3 RS, and, in some cases, the GT2 RS.
Q. What is a Weissach package?
A.Named after Porsche’s research and development center in Weissach, Germany, the Weissach Package is an optional lightweight performance package offered by Porsche for its most track-focused models, particularly the 911 GT3 RS, 911 GT2 RS, and 918 Spyder.
Q. How much does a Porsche 911 GT3 RS cost?
A.The starting MSRP of a brand-new Porsche 911 GT3 RS in 2025 is $241,300. Note this is before options, or any dealer markups.
Q. Is the Porsche 911 GT3 RS street-legal?
A. Yes, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, from its onset in 2003, is a track-focused sportscar, that has been designed to be street-legal.
Q. How much is a Porsche 911 GT3 RS worth?
A. Sale prices for the 911 GT3 RS are heavily influenced by factors such as production numbers, powertrain specifications, mileage, factory options, standout color combinations, Paint-to-Sample (PTS) finishes, and Sonderwunsch (Special Wishes) builds. Depending on the generation and spec, values generally range from $185,000 to over $700,000 (997.2 GT3 RS 4.0).