Porsche 911 GT3 RS Review Insights

Aug 16, 2024

Lecture Notes: GT3 RS Review

Introduction

  • Hosts: Thomas and James from Throttle House.
  • Focus: Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
  • Price Range: Starts at $240,000 USD, can exceed $300,000 with options.
  • Key Question: Is the GT3 RS practical for road use and how does it perform on the track?

Road Performance

  • Design and Ride:
    • Features a large wing, aero bits, carbon fiber, bucket seats.
    • Surprisingly comfortable; not punishing for daily driving.
    • Equipped with Apple CarPlay and front axle lift.
  • Engine and Transmission:
    • 518 horsepower, 9,000 RPM.
    • Inherits a 7-speed PDK with a shorter final drive ratio.
    • Paddle shifters praised for being fun and satisfying.

Track Performance

  • Downforce:
    • 1,900 pounds of downforce, more than McLaren Senna.
    • Allows later braking and harder turns.
  • DRS (Drag Reduction System):
    • Derived from Formula One technology.
    • Engages automatically under certain conditions to reduce downforce for more speed.

Adjustability

  • Suspension and Differential:
    • Highly adjustable for track settings.
    • Features like differential coast and power can be adjusted on-the-fly.
    • Compression and rebound damping are customizable.
  • User Experience:
    • Adjustments can refine car performance for specific tracks.
    • Requires skill and understanding to optimize.

Performance on Throttle House Test Track

  • Lap Times:
    • Fastest lap time achieved was 106.67 seconds, making it the track leader.
    • Technique needed to trust the car’s downforce capabilities.
    • Braking technique includes heavy braking with downforce, easing off as it decreases.

Design and Features

  • Exterior and Aerodynamics:
    • Concentrated on downforce with various features.
    • Notable design includes nostrils for airflow and distinctive cut-in.
  • Interior:
    • Racing-focused but user-friendly.
    • Equipped with weight-saving features and Magnesium shift paddles.
  • Vysoc Package:
    • Adds extensive carbon fiber and weight-saving measures.
    • Magnesium wheels included.

Conclusion

  • Overall Impression:
    • GT3 RS combines serious performance with real driving excitement.
    • Potentially intimidating with its adjustability and capability, but rewarding for knowledgeable drivers.
  • Final Thoughts:
    • GT3 RS is more than just a lap-time tool; it provides an engaging driving experience.

These notes encapsulate the main ideas and details of the GT3 RS as discussed by Thomas and James, outlining its capabilities both on the road and the track, as well as its technical and design features.