The Porsche 911 GT2 is one of the most revered and fearsome models in Porsche’s legendary 911 lineup. Known for its raw power, track-focused performance, and rear-wheel-drive layout, the GT2 is the most extreme, turbocharged variant of the 911. It sits above the already-capable 911 Turbo and shares some traits with the more race-oriented 911 GT3, but it offers significantly more power due to its turbocharged engine. The GT2 represents the pinnacle of Porsche's engineering, blending street-legal performance with track dominance.
Key Features and Specifications (Porsche 911 GT2 RS 991.2):
1. Engine and Performance:
3.8-liter Twin-Turbocharged Flat-Six Engine:
The latest GT2 (most notably the 911 GT2 RS) is powered by a 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, producing a staggering 700 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. This engine is based on the unit found in the 911 Turbo S but is heavily upgraded for more performance.
The GT2 RS is the most powerful 911 ever produced and offers an exhilarating combination of speed and precision.
Performance Stats:
0-60 mph: The 911 GT2 RS rockets from 0-60 mph in just 2.7 seconds, making it one of the fastest accelerating cars in the world.
Top Speed: The car has a top speed of 211 mph, making it not only one of the quickest 911s but also one of the fastest production cars on the market.
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD):
Unlike the all-wheel-drive 911 Turbo models, the GT2 is exclusively rear-wheel drive, providing a more purist driving experience but also making it more challenging to control, especially under high-speed cornering or acceleration. This layout is designed for experienced drivers who demand the highest level of engagement and performance.
2. Chassis and Handling:
Lightweight Construction:
Porsche engineers made extensive use of lightweight materials to reduce the car’s overall weight. The GT2 RS features a carbon-fiber hood, carbon-fiber front fenders, polycarbonate windows, and a titanium exhaust system. There’s also the optional Weissach Package, which adds even more lightweight components like a carbon-fiber roof and magnesium wheels, shaving off around 30 kg (66 lbs).
Motorsport-Derived Suspension:
The GT2 RS uses a race-inspired suspension setup with adjustable coilover springs and anti-roll bars, providing incredibly precise handling. It also comes with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which electronically adjusts the damping forces for maximum grip and control on the road or track.
Active Aerodynamics:
Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the GT2’s performance. The car features a massive fixed rear wing for high-speed downforce, and the front splitter and rear diffuser help channel air for optimal cooling and stability. These aerodynamic elements ensure that the GT2 RS remains planted at high speeds and in tight corners.
3. Braking and Control:
Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB):
The GT2 RS comes equipped with Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes, which offer exceptional stopping power and fade resistance, even under the most demanding conditions. The massive brake discs and lightweight calipers help reduce unsprung weight and improve handling response.
Rear-Axle Steering:
The car is also equipped with rear-axle steering, which enhances agility at low speeds and stability at high speeds. At lower speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, making the car more nimble in tight corners. At high speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the front wheels, providing better stability and confidence during high-speed cornering.
4. Interior and Driver Experience:
Race-Inspired Cockpit:
The interior of the GT2 RS is designed with the driver in mind. It features carbon-fiber racing seats, Alcantara upholstery, and a GT2 RS-specific steering wheel. The cabin is minimalistic, emphasizing function over form, with many optional comfort features removed to save weight. However, some modern conveniences, such as air conditioning and a touchscreen infotainment system, are still present.
Weissach Package:
For those seeking the ultimate track-focused experience, the optional Weissach Package adds even more carbon-fiber elements to the interior and exterior, including a carbon-fiber roll cage in some markets, carbon fiber shift paddles, and lightweight door handles.
Porsche Track Precision App:
The car includes access to the Porsche Track Precision app, which allows drivers to log lap times and analyze their driving performance on the track. This app provides real-time data on braking points, cornering speeds, and acceleration, helping drivers improve their lap times and driving techniques.
5. Aerodynamics and Design:
Aggressive Exterior:
The GT2 RS is instantly recognizable thanks to its aggressive aerodynamic design. The large air intakes, front splitter, and side air vents are not just for show – they are crucial to keeping the engine cool and improving the car’s aerodynamic efficiency.
Functional Rear Wing:
The massive rear wing is a defining feature of the GT2 RS, helping generate significant downforce at high speeds, ensuring stability and grip on the track. Combined with the front splitter and rear diffuser, these aerodynamic aids make the GT2 RS incredibly stable, even at speeds above 200 mph.
6. Track Dominance:
Nürburgring Lap Record:
The 911 GT2 RS holds the record for being one of the fastest production cars to lap the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife, with a time of 6 minutes and 47.3 seconds. This record further solidifies the GT2 RS’s position as one of the most capable track-focused supercars in the world.
Race-Car Feel:
The GT2 RS has been designed with track use in mind, and it delivers a race-car-like driving experience. Everything from the steering feel to the braking and throttle response is tuned for precision and control, making it a true enthusiast’s car. This also means it requires skill to handle, particularly when pushing the limits on a racetrack.
7. Exclusivity and Price:
Limited Production:
The GT2 RS is a limited-production model, adding to its exclusivity and desirability. Only a small number of units are made, and each one is highly sought after by collectors and performance car enthusiasts alike.
Pricing:
The starting price for the Porsche 911 GT2 RS was around $300,000, but due to its limited production and high demand, prices on the second-hand market have often skyrocketed, with some examples selling for well above $500,000 or more, especially for models equipped with the Weissach Package.
