Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0: Impressive Numbers

Want to talk some serious powertrain engineering? Consider the 4.0-liter engine under the hood of the 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0. Yes, a 4.0-liter engine. But one that produces 125 hp per liter. It achieves 500 hp at 8,250 rpm. And provides 339 lb-ft of torque at 5,750 rpm. It is equipped with a six-speed manual.

The flat-six engine uses forged pistons, titanium connecting rods, and a crankshaft straight out of the 911 GT3 RSR—race car.

Speaking of racing, if you were to take it out on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife circuit, and you were an exceptional driver (perhaps more exceptional than you already imagine yourself to be), you’d be able to make it around in 7 minutes, 27 seconds.

More likely would be that you’d do a straight-line 0 to 60 mph, which can be achieved in 3.8 seconds.

It isn’t all about the engine, of course. The Porsche engineers went at the car with reducing as much weight as possible while still making it a driveable car.

The car features aluminum doors and hood, and carbon fiber front fenders and luggage compartment lid. The two seats are based on carbon fiber, as well. Even the carpet is “weight optimized.”

In total, the car, filled with gas and ready to roll, weighs a mere 2,998 lb.

Three more numbers to take into account:

· 193. As in “mph.” The top speed.

· 600. The number of 2011 Porsche 911 GT3 RS 4.0s that will be available—worldwide.

· 185,000. As in “$.” The MSRP (excluding destination) for the car, which will become available in the U.S. later this year.