Porsche’s GT2 model dates to a need to homologate its 993 for GT2-class racing in the mid-1990s. With limited creature comforts, a body kit designed for track performance, and an ultra-stiff suspension, the original, twin-turbocharged 911 GT2 was more race car than road car.

Porsche revived the GT2 nameplate with its water-cooled 996 in 2001, but a corporate push in favor of naturally aspirated GT3-class racing meant that the new car would be designed for slaying roads. The concept was further refined when the updated 997 arrived a few years later. Now, Porsche had twin variable geometry turbochargers that vaulted power to 523 hp in the 997 GT2’s initial specification. With its functional spoiler, the 997 GT2 sprinted to 60 mph in around 3.3 seconds and exceeded 200 mph on a closed course.

As if that was not enough, in the spring of 2010, Porsche told its German dealers that a much hotter version was coming. The 911 GT2 RS—marking the first time Porsche had attached its most famous two letters to the GT2 name—was rated at 620 hp. Its twin-turbo flat-six was developed for the GT1 Le Mans racer, and it made use of new four-valve heads, variable-turbine technology, and the company’s latest VarioCam Plus valve-timing technology.

With more power and less weight, the 911 GT2 RS made use of carbon fiber body panels to shed about 150 lbs., bringing its unladed curb weight to a hair over 3,000 lbs. A bi-plane rear spoiler tamed the 911 GT2 RS at speed—a necessary feature given its ability to rocket to 100 mph in under seven seconds. Enormous carbon ceramic brakes brought it to a halt. Porsche was not shy about its intentions with the 911 GT2 RS. Its 7 minutes and 18 seconds sprint around the Nürburgring Nordschleife topped its own Carrera GT, along with a host of other supercars.

The 997 GT2 RS marked a transition point for Porsche as the automaker continues to move toward making use of dual-clutch transmissions in its highest-performance models. Even today, the 997 GT2 RS remains the most powerful manual transmission road-going Porsche ever built.

A mere 142 examples were earmarked for the U.S., including this black example that was built on 1 December 2010. This well-equipped 911 GT2 RS features matching black-painted 19-in. GT3 wheels with center locks wrapped around carbon ceramic brakes with yellow calipers, carbon fiber fenders, the Sound Package Plus, and a black interior trimmed in full leather and Alcantara with carbon fiber accents. Serial number 412 (of 500) was delivered new in New Mexico but was relocated to the St. Louis area shortly thereafter where it was serviced by Plaza Porsche and Porsche St. Louis. It found its way to Southern California in late 2014. Its servicing is up to date and it recently passed Porsche’s 110-point certified pre-owned inspection. Currently fitted with the original and more comfortable Adaptive Sport seats, the carbon fiber-reinforced Sport bucket seats can still be acquired through Porsche should the next owner prefer the racing-style seats.

In essentially new condition, this 911 GT2 RS has been driven only 5,350 miles and is ready to be enjoyed by its next owner as Porsche intended.