Porsche 997 GT3 RSR (2008)

The 997 RSR made its debut in 2007 at the 24hrs of Le Mans to run in the GT2 class (now GTE). Long affiliated with motorsport, the ‘RSR’ nomenclature can be traced back to its roots with the 1973 2.8 RSR. The 997 iteration replaced the then ageing but very successful 996 variants. Porsche had taken a hiatus from International motorsport from 1998 until the introduction of the 996 variants.

For the 997, displacement was up, increased to 3.8 litres and a power output of 465hp. Both the road-going GT3 and GT3 RS of the time (generation 1) used the 3.6 litre Mezger producing 415hp. The RSR goes above and beyond the 8,400rpm rev limiter of the road car, developing peak power at 8,000rpm but running to a frenzied 9,400rpm.

For 2008, the RSR saw a series of revisions and updates. Extensive changes were made to the exterior of the car; most noticeably through the introduction of canards to the lower front bumper and a large intake at the top of the front bumper. The rear end and wing was carried over from a MY2007 RSR. There were significant changes mechanically too. For the first time, the RSR would use the sequential-six speed transmission from its bigger brother, the LMP2 specification sports prototype RS Spyder. The use of this gearbox saw a significant weight reduction like-for-like over its predecessor, reduced internal friction and through a revised design with flat angle driveshafts; the option for a broader range of suspension setups.

This example was one of 35 cars built by Porsche during the winter ahead of the 2008 season. Supplied new in 2008 to VICI Racing, a German race team with two decades of experience, they entered the car into the GT2 class of the American Le Mans Series, having raced the previous year in a Porsche Fabcar.

The RSR competed in 11 events at the top flite level between 2008 and 2010, in three liveries including two runs at the Mobil 1 Sebring 12hr. This fantastic RSR, presented in its striking T-Mobile livery and accompanied by 16 spare wheels and tyres is available for viewings or inspection by appointment only.