Porsche 911 Carrera RS: A Lightweight Racing Icon

Porsche 911s lined up next to eachother — Various Porsche 911 Carrera RS models over the years next to a Porsche 500 Spyder
Source: Porsche

The Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 is widely regarded as one of the most iconic sports cars ever produced. First introduced in 1972, the RS (Rennsport; German meaning “race sport”) 2.7 was a high-performance version of the 911 Carrera that had been introduced a few years earlier. With its lightweight construction, aerodynamic enhancements, and powerful engine, the RS 2.7 became an instant favorite of sports car enthusiasts and racing drivers alike.

Closeup engine 911 Carrera — Air cooled engine inside a Porsche 911 Carrera RS
Source: Porsche

One of the most notable features of the RS 2.7 was its engine. Porsche developed a new 2.7-liter flat-six engine specifically for the RS, which produced 210 horsepower in European specification and 205 horsepower in US specification. The engine was also equipped with Bosch mechanical fuel injection, which helped it achieve impressive performance figures for its time. The RS 2.7 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds and had a top speed of 150 mph.

black and white photo technical drawing 911 Carrera RS 2.7 — *Technical illustration of the Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 that displays the car’s legendary proportions Source: Porsche*

In addition to its powerful engine, the RS 2.7 was also notable for its lightweight build. Porsche used thinner metal plates for the body panels, and many of the non-essential features found in other 911 models were removed to reduce weight. The RS 2.7 also featured its signature “ducktail” rear spoiler and a front air dam to improve aerodynamics and increase downforce.

black and white photo of Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 — The 911 Carrera RS 2.7 famous ‘ducktail’ spoiler performing an aerodynamic test
Source: Porsche

The interior of the RS 2.7 was also stripped down to reduce weight. Lightweight bucket seats, door panels with simple pull straps instead of traditional handles, and a minimalist dashboard with basic instrumentation were all part of the RS 2.7’s interior design.

Closeup of yellow Porsche Carrera RS badge — *“Carrera RS” decal.*
The term ‘Carrera’ originated from Carrera Panamericana, a legendary (and highly dangerous) Mexican road race that ran from border to border for five consecutive years in the early 1950s
Source: Motofutura

Closeup of steering wheel Porsche Carrera RS — Interior of a Porsche 911 Carrera RS
Source: Motofutura

911 Carrera RS 2.7 model on display at Luftgekühlt 5
Source: Motofutura

The RS 2.7 was also offered in a limited-edition “Touring” version, which included more comfortable seats and other amenities such as sound deadening and carpeting. However, even the Touring version was still a lightweight, performance-focused sports car.

two porsche carrera RS yellow and white racing on road — Two 911 Carrera RS 2.7 models racing each other touring and sport version (left to right)
Source: Porsche

Despite its relatively short production run (only 1,580 units were produced), the RS 2.7 quickly became a legend among sports car enthusiasts. It was praised for its incredible performance, handling, and driving experience, and it became a favorite of racing drivers around the world. The RS 2.7 also achieved great success on the track, winning numerous races and championships in various motorsports categories.

white Porsche 911 Carrera RS on road — A Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 (sport version) speeding on a country road
Source: Porsche

White 3/4 shot Porsche Carrera RS rear wing shipping container background — ‘Ducktail’ spoiler from Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 (sport version)
Source: Porsche

Even today, the Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 remains one of the most sought-after and valuable sports cars ever produced. Its timeless design, impressive performance, and racing heritage make it a true classic that is sure to be cherished by automotive enthusiasts for generations to come.