Introduced in 1997, the Porsche’s 996-generation of 911 was the first to be built with a water-cooled engine in deference to the age-old format of air-cooled units. Initially, the standard 996 Carrera had a flat-six engine of 3.4-litre capacity. The Targa, Carrera 4S, Turbo, GT2, and GT3 received 3.6-litre versions. The 996 GT3 road car was built to homologate its racing sibling. The cylinder heads of the GT3 engine were based on those from the 959, and the block was the M64 type from the 964, it being stronger than the lighter 993 M64 block. The six-speed gearbox of the 996 GT3 was derived from the gearbox used in the 993 GT2.

Whilst the ‘Cup’ cars served well in National and Supercup Championships, the GT3 R was the first of the internationally homologated GT3 race cars and was followed by the RS (from 2001, not to be confused with its later road-going sibling) and finally the RSR. All three variants dominated their classes in major championships around the world, and the model remains as one of the most successful series of racing Porsches built.

This 2001 Porsche 911 GT3 RS was ordered on 22 March 2001 and sold to German industrial heir and sometime racer Andreas Knapp-Voith, who specified the driver training—a €3.000 cost option at the time. All-in, the total cost of this GT3 RS was €438.480, according to the original order document. Specified in a very menacing black, believed to be the only GT3 RS sold as a ‘non-white’ example, this GT3 RS can only be described as aggressive-looking. Backing up these looks is an engine which has been increased to 3.7 litres in size and fine-tuned by RS Tuning to produce 485 bhp and 465 Nm of torque.

While many Porsche 911 GT3 RSs were raced hard in period, this car experienced no such hardship. Despite its lack of track action, this GTR3 RS is eligible for the Masters’ Endurance Legends series—a flourishing series attracting a wide range of entrants to what is a very competitive field. A huge history file detailing engine tuning, servicing, and ongoing maintenance to the tune of almost €90.000 accompanies the car, along with all original books and other documentation.

In order to compete at the highest level, you must own the best and most competitive cars. This GT3 RS is a standout car, allowing its new owner to compete at the highest level—something it never had a chance to do when new.