Porsche GT3 vs GT3 RS – Which is Better?
We’ve written about the GT2 vs GT3, but we know there are enthusiasts out there that aren’t sure about the differences between the GT3 and GT3 RS. Therefore in this article, we will be covering the similarities and differences between the GT3 vs GT3 RS. In short, the RS trim is faster, more expensive, and sharper looking. For those Porsche enthusiasts that are in the market for an extremely high-performance Porsche, we’ll explain the many similarities and differences between these two 911 (GT3) models. There aren’t too many differences between the two, so this will be a fairly straightforward article.
Porsche GT3 vs GT3 RS – The Basics
The Porsche GT3, also known as the GT2’s little brother, was first introduced in 1999 and is still in production today. It has had four generations since 1999. Based solely on looks, the 997 GT3 is our favorite. The GT3 was a very prominent racing vehicle for many drivers. There were many engines in the GT3 ranging from 355hp-518hp and 273-347lb-ft of torque. Transmissions available were a 6-speed manual and 7-speed PDK automatic transmission.
The GT3 has an RS variant, which stands for RennSport. RennSport translated means “Racing Sport” in German. Therefore, the GT3 RS’ are more track-focused. The GT3 RS was first introduced in 2003 and is still wildly popular today. If you have the extra cash to pony up, the GT3 RS is well worth the extra money. The GT3 RS not only has better engine performance, but also has better handling and braking. In 2011, Porsche offered a GT3 RS 4.0, which is a more powerful and more aggressive GT3 RS. They also added some more aggressive exterior touches for a more aggressive exterior. There have been many engines in the GT3 RS’ ranging from 376hp-518hp and 284-347lb-ft of torque. It has also been equipped with a 6-speed manual and 7-speed PDK automatic transmission.
GT3 Generations
- Â 996.1 GT3 – 1999-2001
- Â 996.2 GT3 – 2003-2004
- 997.1 GT3 – 2006-2009
- 997.2 GT3 – 2009-2011
- 991.1 GT3 – 2013-2016
- 991.2 GT3 – 2017-2019
- 992.1 GT3 – 2021-Present
GT3 RS Generations
- Â 996.2 GT3 RS – 2003-2004
- 997.1 GT3 RS – 2006-2009
- 997.2 GT3 RS – 2009-2011
- 991.1 GT3 RS – 2015-2017
- 991.2 GT3 RS – 2018-2019
- 992.1 GT3 RS – 2023-Present
Porsche GT3 vs GT3 RS Price
Price is one of the few differences between these two models.
New & Used Porsche GT3 vs GT3 RS Prices
The 2023 911 GT3 starts at $172,450 and there is also a GT3 with a Touring Package offered that starts at $172,850. While a 2023 GT3 RS starts at a whopping $223,800. This goes to show how many more advances are found in the RS vs the regular GT3. Used GT3 prices range from $99,990 (1987) – $399,800 and used GT3 RS’ prices range from $194,990 – $959,000 (GT3 RS 4.0). Therefore, to no surprise, the GT3 RS is not only more expensive on the new side, but also on the used side.
General Porsche GT3 vs GT3 RS Topics
Porsche GT3 vs GT3 RS Performance
For consistencies sake, we will be using the 2023 Porsche GT3 and GT3 RS Porsche specs. Now, the fun part, performance, and the main reason for the price difference.
Engines, Drivetrain, & Fuel Economy
Porsche GT3 & Gt3 RS Performance
The 992 GT3 comes equipped with a 4.0L NA flat-six engine and puts down 502hp and 346lb-ft of torque. It comes with a 6-speed manual or 7-speed PDK automatic transmission. It runs a 0-60 time of 3.2 seconds (PDK) or 3.7 seconds (Manual) with a top speed of 197mph (PDK) or 199mph (Manual). The 992 GT3 RS comes with the same 4.0L NA engine, but puts out 518hp and the same 346 lb-ft of torque. It has a more impressive 0-60 time of 3.0 seconds but a top speed lower at 184mph. The 992 GT3 RS is the fifth fastest Porsche, so far. The flat-six engine came with an updated 7-speed PDK automatic transmission. It boasts a quarter-mile time of 11.6 seconds, or 10.9 seconds with the Sport Chrono Package.
Porsche GT3 vs GT3 RS Reliability and Common Problems
When it comes to the reliability of these vehicles, unfortunately, there isn’t much data to go off of since there haven’t been tens of millions produced. However, after scrolling through many forums and reliable sources, we have concluded that these are reliable, pending how well they are maintained. Most supercars aren’t used for daily driving, which makes it hard to score the reliability. The likelihood of seeing Porsche’s cross the 100,000-mile mark is very rare. Most GT3 or GT3 RS’ likely average 5,000 miles a year. This is not to say that either vehicle can’t be daily drivers, but the value will drop tremendously if this is the case. What comes with any supercar? Expensive annual ownership costs, this should be a no-brainer. These engines and gearboxes are pretty bulletproof. When it comes to service or maintenance, you will want to find a mechanic that you trust that won’t screw you with cost of labor or parts.
Porsche GT3 vs GT3 RS – Which is Better?
So, which is better: the GT3 or the GT3 RS? We feel this question is rather subjective because people want different things out of their vehicles. However, we will provide our input if money wasn’t a problem. We would choose the Porsche GT3 RS 10 times out of 10. It is more aggressive, quicker, but more expensive. However, the GT3 may seem more practical because it isn’t as fast and can be road driven easier. The GT3 may have a more comfortable ride because the suspension/handling won’t be for track purposes. We always advise getting first-hand experience when it comes to purchasing any vehicle, especially an expensive Porsche.
Porsche GT3 vs GT3 RS Conclusion
To wrap up this article, both models are incredible 911’s designed by Porsche. Both have an extensive history and track records in racing and on the street. For anyone that is in the market for with 911 model, we hope the information above assists in your purchasing decision. In short, the GT3 RS is faster and tends to be more expensive, but the GT3 may be found as more practical and is cheaper. Have you had first-hand experience with either vehicle? Please leave some feedback in the comments below. This will help us with our research and future readers in their purchasing journey’s. If you are wanting to read up on more Porsche comparing content, here are is an article on the 997 vs 991.
