Manhart TR 950 squeezes 966hp from GT2 RS

It’s probably fair to call the 911 GT2 RS an acquired taste, on the basis that the equivalent GT3 RS (and the current one, for that matter) are absolutely all the track car you could ever need. For that reason, the 991 GT2 – as its reputation accorded – is best thought of as a monster glacé cherry. You’ll likely recall it had 700hp from its turbocharged 3.8-litre flat-six, which qualified it as the most powerful 911 ever introduced. But rarity (and the clamour when it launched) ensured garage queen status for many – you can still get a delivery-mile one today, assuming you’ve got upwards of £350k to spend. 

Still, if that’s pocket change for you, the GT2 was an itch that some have deemed vital to scratch. This is presumably the market that Manhart is aiming the new TR 950 at – the tuner suggesting that it ‘finally plays in the league of absolute super sports cars’. Why? Well, because it now pumps out 966hp courtesy of larger TTH turbochargers, a charge air cooler, bespoke manifold and water intercooler – not mention the inevitable ECU remap. With 804lb ft of torque also available to its single-driven axle, Manhart says it has also taken steps to reinforce the clutch in the seven-speed PDK. 

Performance? The firm doesn’t specify, but we can safely assume ‘lots’. To help rein it in, Manhart has installed KW coilovers, although it suggests the existing carbon-ceramic brakes are more than up to the job. The split 21-/22-inch forged wheels get Continental SportContact 7 tyres with 335-section to the rear. And just in case they don’t leave an impression, there’s an array of carbon fibre body parts stuck on for good measure, including front splitter, sill extensions, aero flics, intake inserts and modified diffuser. Manhart makes no claim of specific aerodynamic benefits, so we can assume they are mostly about accruing yet more exclusivity. 

This more than anything else is obviously the name of the TR 950 game. Take it from us, the GT2 needs an additional 266hp like Thor needs a geologist’s hammer. But if you’re the sort of person who quite fancies the 991 flagship in the first place, you might also be the sort of chap who fancies taking the concept to the edge of the envelope – no matter the cost. Manhart chooses not to mention a specific amount for the car as is, although you can be sure it would welcome discussion of a final cost if you’re so inclined. The cheapest one available on PH? This one with 14k on the clock and a £285k sticker in the window. Bargain.