In tribute to the iconic 1973 911 Carrera RS, Porsche applied a similar strategy to craft a lightweight version of the Carrera 2, derived from the race-ready Cup car, aptly named the Carrera RS. Introduced in November 1991 as a 1992 model, the Porsche Carrera RS, or 964 RS, focused on shedding weight to enhance performance.
Porsche engineers pursued utmost lightness, stripping nearly 300 pounds from the vehicle. This involved using aluminum for the bonnet, employing lighter glass for side and rear windows, and removing sound-insulating interior mats. Luxuries like power steering, power windows, rear seats, and more were also sacrificed. Furthermore, the 964 RS boasted lightweight magnesium Cup wheels, contributing to its trimmer physique, weighing in at 2706 pounds, a significant 286 pounds lighter than the standard model.
Under the hood, an upgraded M64/03 engine was employed, elevating power output to 260 horsepower from the 3.6-liter boxer engine, achieved through meticulous engineering optimizations. The chassis underwent reinforcement with additional bracing, while the suspension was lowered and stiffened for enhanced handling. With cross-drilled discs and race-derived rear brakes, the 964 RS exhibited formidable performance, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, half a second quicker than its counterpart.
Available in three road-legal variants—base, touring, and N-GT—the 964 Carrera RS epitomized Porsche’s commitment to performance-driven engineering, setting a benchmark for future models like the 911 R.
Photo Source: Collecting Cars
Oh but the 2.7 Carrera RS was so delicately beautiful whereas the 964, with that Botox front bib, is just plain ugly.
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