Porsche 911 GT2 RS

Porsche has been building RS versions of the 911 for 37 years, and GT2s for 15 – but this is the first time a car has worn both badges. That fact alone tells you this is a very special version of arguably the world’s most famous sports car.

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In case onlookers are in any doubt about the GT2 RS, its aggressive styling makes a statement of intent. The bodywork looks similar to the old GT2, but a weight-saving regime that includes a carbon fibre bonnet, mirror covers and rear air intake surrounds has helped to shed 90kg. These additions are unpainted, and their bare weave is the most overt element of the styling – even though the huge rear wing is hard to miss! Polycarbonate windows and optional carbon front wing panels also contribute to the low kerbweight.

The quest to rid the 911 of unnecessary mass continues inside, where the elegantly simple cabin is dominated by a pair of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic bucket seats. The standard Clubsport package includes a rear roll cage, six-point harnesses and a fire extinguisher. All the chassis upgrades enjoyed by the GT3 RS over the GT3 feature here and you can adjust the GT2 RS’s springs, roll bars and ride height to fine-tune the handling. However, the Michelin Pilot tyres boast a unique compound and the rear suspension has race-inspired rose-jointed links.

But what really separates the GT2 RS from the GT3 RS in our Performance Car Of The Year line-up is the incredible engine sitting behind the rear axle. It features a smaller 3.6-litre capacity, but benefits from a pair of variable vane turbochargers, which serve up mind-boggling amounts of torque at very low revs.

The result is a car that can rearrange your internal organs when you press the accelerator. Peak torque of 700Nm is available from only 2,500rpm, and acceleration is instantaneous. The breadth of the power band is also deeply impressive – in any gear and at any speed, the 911 GT2 RS is brutally fast.

However, it isn’t a dragster built purely to go fast in a straight line. You can choose from two active damper settings, while the traction and stability control can be switched off independently. The RS shares the razor-sharp precision, incredible grip and awesome stopping power of its less powerful brother.

Lightweight wheel rims and ceramic brakes contribute to the tremendously accurate steering. Turn into a corner and the GT2’s grip, body control and composure are astonishing.

Driving the GT2 RS is intoxicating. There’s seemingly no limit to Porsche’s ability to develop the 911’s unique layout to new heights, and the GT2 RS is one of the most devastatingly accomplished supercars we’ve ever driven.