The Porsche 911 R Delivers the Goods Sans Over-The-Top Styling

Porsche 911 R (Credit: © Porsche)

For some time now, a lighter version of the 911 dubbed the 911 R has been circulating the rumor mill, and today, the model becomes official. In addition to being lighter, like the 911R from the 1960s that it pays homage to, the new 911 R has some extra power and handling goodies to go along with it.

The 911 R comes in boasting a ton of shared features with the legendary 911 GT3 RS, like its naturally aspirated 3.8-liter six-cylinder engine that pumps out 500 horsepower and 338 pound-feet of torque. Unlike the GT3 RS’ version of this engine, the 911 R’s 3.8-liter plays with a six-speed manual much to the delight of traditionalists. The transmission does feature a double-declutching feature that helps deliver perfect shifts at the push of a button.

This powertrain nets the 911 R a 3.7-second 0-to-60 sprint time and a top speed of 201 mph. These numbers represent a 0.6-second slower sprint time and an 8 mph faster top speed relative to the GT3. The slower sprint time is due to the move from the PDK transmission to a manual and the top speed increase is likely due to the lack of the fixed rear spoiler.

Porsche 911 R (Credit: © Porsche)

While the power is great, what really makes up the 911 R is the weight loss it underwent. Porsche added carbon-fiber wheel arches, a magnesium roof, rear windshield and rear windows made from plastic, reduced sound insulation, and deletion of the rear bench seat, audio system and air conditioning. All tallied up, this rig checks in at 1,370 kg (3,020 pounds), making it 50 kg (110.2 pounds) lighter than the GT3.

The lightening helps out in the corners, but that wasn’t enough as Porsche went the extra step in tricking out the 911 R’s chassis to deliver even better in-corner performance. Here, you’ll find a specially tuned rear-axle-steering system that allows for more precise turn-in, standard Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes measuring in at 410 mm up from and 305 mm out back, lightweight aluminum wheels, and sticky rubber measuring 245 mm wide up front and 305 mm wide out back.

Porsche 911 R (Credit: © Porsche)

In terms of appearance, the 911 R is about as understated as a 911 can be. It features many of the GT3’s lightweight components, but none of its crazy styling bits like the massive rear spoiler. Instead, this model features a retractable spoiler like the Carrera models, a diffuser hidden beneath the rear underbody, and the GT3’s front apron with a more timid lip spoiler.

Inside, the 911 R continues its lightweight ways with carbon-fiber bucket seats with exclusive fabric inserts and fabric pull straps on the doors. The model’s sportiness is evident through its 360 mm GT sports steering wheel, short shifter, carbon-fiber trim, and a numbered aluminum badge on the passenger side.

In the U.K., the 911 R will arrive in June 2016 at a starting price of £136,901 ($191,310), putting it just above the GT3 RS. Look for the 911 R to come in at around the $179,000 mark in the U.S. Production is limited to just 991 units worldwide, so you’ll likely have a rough time finding one.