Home/Buyer's Guides/997.2 GT3 RS
The crowning of the naturally aspirated engine · 2010-2011Motorsport in its purest form: prices, weak points, checks and a checklist. So you can assess the history, the engine and any track use with confidence on site.
For many purists the Porsche 911 GT3 RS of the 997.2 series marks the absolute zenith of the analogue era. Introduced at the end of 2009, it used the last and strongest evolution of the legendary naturally aspirated Mezger engine (leaving aside the strictly limited RS 4.0).
With 3.8 litres, 450 PS and thoroughgoing lightweight construction (a titanium exhaust system, plastic windows) it is more radical than any predecessor. The combination of a manual gearbox, the wide Turbo body and an uncompromising track set-up makes it one of the most value-stable Porsches of all. But running this precision instrument calls for a budget and for expertise.
Naturally aspirated 3.8-litre Mezger engine
Kerb weight
Single-mass flywheel as standard
Exhaust system, centre lock as standard
450 PS · 1,370 kg
Carbon & a wider track
Where there is light there is shadow. These are the points you have to check.
The 3.8-litre RS also carries the risk of the bonded coolant pipe connections on the engine block working loose. On an RS the likelihood is even higher, because of the harder thermal load of track days.
The engine is regarded as extremely durable. By design there are no IMS problems (intermediate shaft bearing) and no bore scoring.
The RS runs on centre-lock wheels as standard. It looks spectacular, but it demands care.
250 to 600 pages of specialist knowledge (depending on the edition) on the 997.2 GT3 RS: detailed weak points, engine codes, specification details, inspection checklists, production figures, the options that add value and price forecasts.
Anyone using an RS as it was built to be used needs to budget for it.
| Work / fault | Approx. cost (€) | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Securing the coolant pipe connections | 2,500 - 5,000 | Preventive (engine out) |
| PCCB brake discs (per axle) | 5,000 and more | Parts only (ceramic) |
| Clutch replacement | 1,500 - 3,000 | Wear item |
| PASM dampers (per axle) | 1,000 - 2,000 | If it leaks |
| Tyres (Cup tyres, a set) | 1,500 - 2,500 | High wear |
| Front spoiler lip | 200 - 400 | Wear item |
| Stone-chip protection | 1,500 - 3,000 | Paint protection film (recommended) |
An absolute icon. The prices reflect its legendary status.
| Category | Price range |
|---|---|
| Entry level (high mileage) | from €180,000 |
| Market level (well cared for) | €200,000 - €250,000 |
| Collector car (top history) | €250,000 and more |
Note: the even rarer RS 4.0 sits considerably higher again.
The 997.2 GT3 RS is the essence of the analogue motorsport 911. Technically robust, apart from the pipe connections, but running one as it was built to be used is expensive. Investment: an absolute top investment that demands maximum expertise when buying. The history, freedom from accident damage and the condition of the expensive wear items (PCCB, centre lock) decide the value.
The listing, the paperwork and the price checked against real market data before you travel to view the car. A PDF dossier, usually within 24 h.
€199 incl. VAT · fixed price Assessment Level 2 · remoteDigital Audit plus follow-up questions, dealer answers, paperwork and a negotiating strategy, through to a clear buying decision.
€499 incl. VAT · audit included Assessment Level 3 · on siteA physical assessment where the car is: paint measurement, diagnostic readout, technical check, test drive and a negotiation brief.
from €790 incl. VAT · plus travelDo you already own a Porsche 997.2 GT3 RS? The Vehicle Documentation & Market Valuation puts the history, the paperwork and the market value of your car in order (€249 incl. VAT). Still looking? Then the right route is the Sourcing Enquire and name the model: Request a Digital Audit for a Porsche 997.2 GT3 RS.