Porsche's mid-engine 911 RSR now packs a 515 HP flat-six

Ever since the first model was built decades ago, the Porsche 911 has always been known for being a rear-engined, rear-wheel drive vehicle, lending to its unique driving characteristics. Be it as a street car or a race car, the German automaker has always stuck with this tried and tested formula for the 911. In 2016 however, Porsche decided to change things up with their then-new 991.1-based 911 RSR by making it mid-engined. And guess what, it managed to secure over 20 class wins around the world.

Now, three years later, and Porsche has revealed the new 911 RSR. While it may look similarly styled to its predecessor, Porsche claims that the updated 911 RSR is 95% new, and only the
headlights, brake system, clutch, driver’s seat, and “parts of the suspension” have been kept retained. It also features a new engine, which is still naturally-aspirated unlike its competitors.

The biggest change made to the new 911 RSR would be its motor. The previous 4.0-liter engine flat-six engine based on the 991.2 has been upgraded to 4.2-liters and continues to be naturally-aspirated. Depending on the restrictor size, the RSR is capable of producing around 515 horsepower. According to Porsche, this is the “largest ever boxer engine to be mounted in a Porsche 911 ex-works”. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a sequential six-speed 'constant-mesh' gearbox, which ensures faster shift times.

Externally, the 911 RSR has revised aero upgrades all-around to improve downforce and optimize airflow. One of the most obvious (and not to mention coolest) changes from its predecessor would have to be the side exhausts. As opposed to a traditional rear-exit exhaust setup, the exhaust has been repositioned to exit in front of the rear wheels. This allows Porsche to fit a more optimized diffuser at the rear.

Aside from the performance and aero upgrades, Porsche has also updated the cabin to feature more safety systems such as collision warning when a faster vehicle is approaching the RSR's blind spot.

The new Porsche 911 RSR will make its racing debut later this year where it will be defending its GTE-Pro title in the FIA WEC series. Meanwhile, customer teams will be getting their units later in 2020.