It’s official: a new version of the mighty Porsche 911 GT2 RS is on its way, after test mules have been spotted lapping the Nürburgring.
The last GT2-badged 911, a twin-turbocharged monster based on the 911 Turbo, was phased out back in 2012, but that’s about to change now that Porsche is turbocharging more of its range.
Based on the recently facelifted 991-generation 911, the new GT2 RS follows the same formula we’ve come to love and fear in equal measure, with huge power and an ultra-lightweight chassis.
GT3 chassis, up to 700bhp
The new GT2 RS will be primarily based on the body and chassis of the current GT3 RS, which means the same super light magnesium roof and carbon fibre body panels.
However, the successor to Porsche’s most recent widowmaker will swap the naturally aspirated flat-six of the GT3 for a monstrous twin-turbo setup, that’s rumoured to put out as much as 700bhp.
Earlier this year, head of Porsche GT Andreas Preuninger strongly hinted that the GT2 RS would be making a return, saying: “It might be that we are thinking of working on something like that for the future.”
Only 500 made per year
He added that the GT2 RS typically comes towards the end of a car’s lifespan and helps to draw a line under the current-gen model, meaning that you can expect it on sale in the next year or two.
According to those who have seen the new GT2 in action on the Nürburgring, the car will also come with the option of a manual gearbox, just as the next GT3 is expected to have the same.
Of course, the new GT2 RS is expected to be limited-release only, with the rumour mill suggesting that the car will be ready to order from 2017 with only 500 models made each year.
