LIFESTYLE
Turning the key to this road-going race car, the engine emits a devilish rasp that snarls from somewhere behind you. It is time to experience everything the Porsche 911 GT3 RS has to offer... For the true drivers and petrol heads, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS brings all the thrills of a race car, yet defies almost all the downsides of traditional super-car ownership. First, it’s a pussy cat to drive, even in this ‘wide body’ version it has perfect manners around town. The steering wheel is thankfully round and it has a boot for storage. The interior is a wonderful place to be - despite the race car feel given by the roll cage and the instantaneous paddle shifters, it’s comfortable and civilised, yet performance wise to even come close you’ll need to look at the lightweight track specials from a company like Radical - I don’t know about you, but putting my crash helmet on every time I need to nip to the shop to buy a pint of milk isn’t my cup of tea. This is one of the few cars that seem to defy the laws of physics, the precision of the steering as you point the car to where you want it to go, the awesome traction as you tackle the corner and lean on the race inspired suspension; when you sit behind the wheel at full chat with the unmistakable exhaust note passing through every inch of your body, it really is every car enthusiast’s ultimate dream. Porsche’s attention to detail, quality and precision engineering are sublime,
but as with everything Porsche, it is function before form. So whilst the enormous rear wing and the cuts and slashes in the bodywork all look incredible, they are all designed for the single purpose of making this car faster and more enjoyable to drive, even the trademark badge has been printed onto the bonnet to save weight and improve aerodynamics.
A simple flex of your ankle brings the horizon towards you at an impossible speed – an addictive and utterly intoxicating feeling that is usually reserved only for fighter pilots. The rear mounted engine that 911’s are famous for defies the laws of physics – this 4.0 litre naturally aspirated engine is a lot like the 911 Cup Race car, with 513 bhp on tap it effortlessly pulls and pulls all the way through 7th gear and up to the 9,000 rpm rev limiter. After a spirited mix of A and B roads, you’re back on your drive, don’t forget to return a little while later with an ice cold Sauvignon Blanc or a beer to stand and simply admire the sheer beauty of the beast that is the Porsche 911 GT3 RS.