In 1995, Porsche adapted to the evolving landscape of international GT racing with a series of homologation specials, starting with the naturally-aspirated 911 RS and concluding with the GT2 Evo. Based on the 911 Turbo, the GT2 featured a twin-turbocharged engine initially delivering 424bhp, later boosted to 444bhp. It achieved a top speed of 187 mph and accelerated from 0 to 100mph in just 7.2 seconds, placing it alongside the McLaren F1 in performance.
Porsche enhanced the GT2 for track dominance by upgrading brakes, suspension, and wheels, and refining aerodynamics with a larger front air dam and rear spoiler. Weighing 300kg less than the Turbo, it utilized aluminum panels, lightweight seats, and omitted non-essential interior components. Wider wheel arches and an enlarged rear wing with integrated air ducts optimized engine cooling. As the priciest 911 variant, the GT2 remained in production until 1998.
The 1996 Porsche 911 GT2 Evo represented the pinnacle of air-cooled Porsches, engineered for FIA GT1 competition with a twin-turbo 3.6L flat-6 generating 600 HP and 490 lb-ft of torque. It featured widened rear fenders, modular wheels, and a new front spoiler with specialized cooling inlets.
Despite its advancements, the evolving GT1 standards quickly surpassed the Evo, resulting in only 11 units being produced before Porsche transitioned to the 996 series, rendering these models exceptionally rare in 911 racing history.
Photo Source: Bonhams Cars
