When it comes to track-proven performance, the Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 RS are some of the most impressive nameplates around. Now, with the arrival of the new 992-generation 911 for the 2020 model year, the GT3 and GT3 RS are poised for an update, and as rumor has it the good times will keep on a’rolling with the same formula we know and love - power at the rear, as little weight as possible, and a high-strung six-cylinder for motivation. Even better is the suggestion that the Porsche’s lump of go will be a larger all-atmospheric six-cylinder, now with a few extra cc’s added on top.

If It Ain’t Broke, Don’t Fix It

Note: current Porsche 911 GT3 pictured here.


Here’s the really big news, folks - the new 992-generation 911 GT3 RS is poised to receive the biggest engine ever equipped on a street-legal 911 model. It’ll remain naturally aspirated, and could rev over 9,000 rpm.

That’s the latest as reported by our friends at WhichCar, who spoke with August Achleitner, head of the 911 product line, at the launch of the new 992 Carrera S.

Most automakers these days are going turbo in the never-ending search for a balance between power and efficiency, but the result is almost inevitably a squishier throttle feel, a lower redline, and less good noise out the exhaust tips.

However, for those models that remain naturally aspirated, enthusiasts come running. Notable examples include the Ferrari 812 Superfast’s 6.5-liter V-12 and the Lamborghini Huracan Performante’s 5.2-liter V-10. That’s pretty rarified company, but’s that exactly where the 911 GT3 and GT3 RS belong.

As for the engine size, it’s looking like the current 3,996 cc six-cylinder could “get a small increase,” according to Achleitner.

In all likelihood, we won’t see any major upgrade or changes. WhichCar speculates the GT3 will adopt the 4,000 cc powerplant from the tail of the GT3 R race car, which produces 404 kW (550 horsepower) on its own. As such, that’s just a few cc’s over the current model’s six-cylinder.

In the GT3, we would expect a slight detune as well compared to the R, with something around 525 horsepower feeling about right. While not as impressive as the R’s 550 ponies, 525 horsepower is still a small bump to the current GT3 RS’s 520 horsepower.

Under the skin, the GT3 RS will use the same underpinnings as the latest 992 Carrera S. Achleitner also said the new RS will draw its development inspiration from the GT3 R, which has us thinking about a new aero package.

A RWD drivetrain and lower overall weight will remain staples of the setup.

The latest eight-speed automatic offered on the current 911 is likely too heavy for the lightweight performance model, which is fine with us - the seven-speed PDK is still mighty impressive, and will work wonders in the new GT3 RS.

Note: current Porsche 911 GT3 RS pictured here.


To keep the heft off, look for the inclusion of carbon fiber throughout, plus a magnesium roof as well. The

current GT3 RS tips the scales at around 3,000 pounds, and that figure is likely to remain static heading into the 992 generation.

While obviously heavily focused on performance, the GT3 and GT3 RS won’t be completely spartan inside the cabin. We fully expect a set of touchscreens and the latest tech goodies to complement the go-faster attitude, adding in extra digital features to help you drive the sports car to the best of your abilities.

“Now we have the possibility with the software … especially in the dashboard,” Achleitner explained. “One can imagine we could start something special for race tracks … like you already see on motorbikes.”

We’re imagining a full readout for specs for lap times, sector times, current horsepower output, tire temps, a G meter, and the like.

For reference, the current 911 GT3 creates 500 horsepower and can hit 60 mph in 3.2 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package, while top speed is pegged at 198 mph. Pricing starts at $143,600.

Pricing starts at $187,500. Top speed is lower than that of the non-RS GT3 model, pegged at 193 mph due to its more aggressive, drag-heavy aero package.

When it finally drops, the 992-generation Porsche 911 GT3 RS will compete against models like the Mercedes AMG GT R Pro, which offers track-spec aero, extensive chassis bracing, upgraded suspension, ceramic-composite brakes, and a lower overall weight. Making the go in the Merc is a twin-turbo (point to Porsche there) 4.0-liter V-8 doling out 577 horsepower and 520 pound-feet of torque, which is good enough to push the coupe to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. Top speed is set at 198 mph.

What do you want to see from the 992-generation Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 RS? Are you excited Stuttgart is sticking with natural aspiration? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Engine

4.0-liter flat-six

Horsepower

520 HP @ 8,250 RPM

Torque

346 LB-FT @ 6,000 RPM

Transmission

7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung

Top track speed

193 mph

0 - 60 mph

3.0 s

1/4 mile

10.9 s


Further Reading

Read our full review on the 2018 Porsche 911 GT3 RS.

Read our full speculative review on the 2020 Porsche 911 GT3.

Read our full review on the 2018 Porsche 911 GT3.