LA 2018: Porsche GT2 RS Clubsport Unveiled – 700 hp, Track-Ready

Just when you thought Porsche have already stolen the show at the ongoing 2018 Los Angeles Autoshow with the release of the latest 911 model, they go one better: releasing a track-honed beast called the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport.

The 700 hp racing version of the street-legal 911 GT2 RS is limited to 200 units globally, and will be eligible to run at Clubsport events, Porsche Club of America (PCA) track days, as well as selected motorsport meets.

The GT2 RS Clubsport (like the track-only 935) shares much of its drivetrain and chassis components with the road-going version, save modifications to chassis, suspension, electronics, body structure, and bodywork to ensure blistering times on any track.

The biggest difference in the Clubsport is that it’s a bonafide single seater with a weld-in roll cage for additional structural rigidity and safety. A Recaro full-bucket racing seat and six-point safety harness keep the driver firmly in place. Elsewhere, a Cosworth ICD color display instrument cluster provides data logging, while Porsche’s Sport Chrono clock and a vintage-style boost gauge relay other important information.

A three-point air jack system ensures quick pit stops, while a fire extinguishing system is fitted as standard. The road going car’s 64-litre tank is also replaced with a 115-litre (FT3) safety fuel cell.

The exterior receives Removable Carbon Fibre Reinforced Plastic (CFRP) front and rear lid with quick release latches, and an FIA-compliant CFRP roof with a removable escape hatch. The additions also include enlarged front air inlets with integrated LED headlights, and a CFRP rear wing for added downforce.

All in all, the Clubsport weighs in at 1,390 kg, or about 80 kgs less than a road-going GT2 RS, (less 50 kg if equipped with the Weissach Pack).

The Clubsport uses an adjustable dual brake circuit for the front and rear axle; six-piston aluminium monobloc brake calipers clamp down on 390 mm discs at the front, and four-piston items work on 380 mm discs at the back.

There are no changes to the 3.8-liter flat-six twin-turbocharged engine – considering it already produces a stellar 700 hp and max torque of 750 Nm – save the fitment of rigid mounts for the seven-speed dual clutch (PDK) transmission, which sends power through a racing optimised limited-slip rear differential.

The Clubsport version is still equipped with the company’s PSM (Porsche Stability Management) system which includes ESC, traction control, and ABS. Thanks to a map switch positioned on the center console, these assistance systems can be adjusted separately or switched off completely depending on the driving situation.

The suspension has also be upgraded for racing with stiffer 3-way racing dampers front and rear. Height, track, and camber adjustments are available depending on the track. One-piece forged light-alloy wheels (10.5J: front and 12.5J: rear), with a full suite of Michelin racing tyres enhance mechanical grip on the toughest of tracks.

Limited to 200 units, each 911 GT2 RS Clubsport retails for USD 478,000 excluding tax, shipping, and import fees which is a hefty price for a car you can’t use on the road; but note, it does come with air-conditioning.