In sports cars, the Porsche brand has some well-loved models that have only improved and evolved over the last few years. You’ve probably heard plenty about the GT3 RS, but driving one is a different experience. Our friends at Superior Autohaus in Bonita Springs, Florida, let us take their 2019 GT3 RS for a ride, and these were the results.
The GT3 RS is essentially a race car with some creature comforts that make it mostly suitable for an everyday vehicle. Does that mean you need a 520-horsepower sports car for your grocery-getter? Nope, but it certainly does spice things up a little. The rear-mounted four-liter flat-six engine will cut your commute time in half. Just kidding, please don’t cut your commute time in half.
What makes the GT3 RS so special?
There are many ways to adjust the suspension and power while driving the GT3, which makes it a little more aggressive than the still-excellent GT3. Porsche says the GT3 RS is purpose-built for performance, and we would have to agree. Even just getting into the driver’s seat is an experience, thanks to the full cage in the back and the six-point harness. Porsche also outfits it with a regular seatbelt, but you may as well utilize the harness (because it looks cool, but it’s also safer). It lingers around $200,000 without any options, and Porsche offers plenty of options.
In 2019, the only transmission available was the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch. Manual transmission purists need not apply, as the PDK is pretty good at what it does. Shifting was fast and smooth throughout the ride, and the dual-circuit brake system was comforting to have. Since this version has a top speed of 193 miles per hour, I was happy to have some big brakes to keep us alive.
A PDK Sport button on the steering wheel activates a Sport mode. It just makes it a little louder and a little more aggressive, perfect for going 35 miles an hour through the streets like we did.
How is the GT3 RS different from the regular GT3?
The GT3 and GT3 RS share the naturally aspirated 4.0L flat-six engine, but the RS has an extra ten horsepower for a total of 520. It’s a bit faster and lighter, but those small changes have a major impact on the overall driving experience.
Another thing that sets the RS apart from the regular GT3 is the upgraded suspension and added aero. It’s also more lightweight thanks to some carbon fiber elements throughout the cabin and exterior. You’ll be happy to know it has two (yup, TWO!) cupholders that pop out from the dashboard. I wouldn’t put a hot coffee in them, but it works.
For how fast and loud the RS is, it’s a pretty exciting experience. I didn’t even go that fast because of the heavy morning traffic, but that’s fine. The point comes across even at lower speeds. If people missed the lizard green paint job, they certainly heard the car coming.
Overall, the GT3 RS is ridiculous enough in all the right ways. I don’t want to know what the insurance premium is like, but I think I could drive it every day in exchange for the sheer joy of it all. Sure, the GT3 thrives on the track and offers a pretty solid race car experience, but it did just fine on the regular streets.
