Porsche has made full use of the scope of Le Mans 24 Hours GT regulations and released the brand new 911 RSR. What was perhaps most unexpected is the fact that lightweight racer features an ultra-modern flat-six engine positioned in front of the rear axle, as opposed to behind it as in every other 911 ever produced.

As Head of Porsche Motorsport Dr. Frank-Steffen Walliser put it; “While retaining the typical 911 design, this is the biggest evolution by now in the history of our top GT model.” Many aspects of the car, such as the suspension, body structure, aerodynamic concept, engine and transmission have been developed from scratch.

The 4.0-litre naturally-aspirated boxer engine produces around 510 hp. The direct fuel injection, rigid valve drive and lightweight materials all contribute to the racer’s outstanding efficiency. This is also the first time a Porsche GT racer has featured assistance systems like the radar-supported “Collision Avoid System” most useful for avoiding the faster LMP prototypes in the dark. Safety cage and racing seat are all updated for enhanced driver safety, while the quick-release fasteners allow entire elements of the carbon-fibre body to be exchanged completely and quickly.

The new 911 RSR will tackle the 2017 racing season including Le Mans and the America IMSA Weathertech Championship, and will make its debut at the IMSA season opener in Daytona on 28-29 January 2017.