Porsche 911 GT3 RS

it’s the zenith of no compromise performance; the point at which road car becomes racing car. Porsche’s 911 GT3 RS has a fraction more power, a lower weight, shorter gear ratios and more chassis enhancements than a regular GT3, and is
about as close to a competition machine as you can get.

At low speeds, it’s like a caged animal; take it on the track, and it comes alive. The 3.8-litre engine has lighter internals and is optimised for high revs. It’s docile below 4,000rpm, but changes character as the revs build to the 8,000rpm red line, accompanied by a flat-six wail.

As with the standard GT3, the RS features race-inspired single nut wheels, Porsche’s active suspension, dynamic engine mounts that automatically tighten under cornering loads and, for the first time, stability control. You can also opt for our car’s costly £5,800 ceramic brakes, which shed a further 20kg and increase the purity of the steering. All these tweaks give the RS incredible grip and traction, plus lightning responses and immense feedback through the razor-sharp controls. This was reflected in the figures – it was the fastest car we’ve ever tested at the Anglesey track.

Fully unlocking this 911’s potential requires skill, and driving it is a truly physical experience – after five hot laps, you emerge with aching arms and a sweaty brow. Get it right, though, and it’s more enthralling to drive than pretty much anything else on the road. The lightweight polycarbonate rear window makes for noisy cruising, and few buyers will specify the extreme no-cost option of having the stereo and air-con removed!

Clever adaptive suspension ensures the firm ride isn’t unbearable, but the GT3 RS is still a no-holds-barred 911.