Porsche saved the best for last with the 997 generation of the 911. The GT3 RS 4.0 was the culmination of years of testing on the open road and in the crucible of motorsport. Its engine was the most powerful naturally aspirated flat-six built by Porsche at the time of its unveiling, producing 500 brake horsepower at 8,250 rpm and 339 pound-feet of torque. The enhanced output came from a new intake manifold, higher-flow air filters within carbon-fiber housings, less restrictive catalytic converters to reduce exhaust back pressure, Variocam-Plus variable valve timing, and a two-stage variable induction system. Even though the standard 911 GT3 RS was already on a diet, Porsche managed to trim a further 22 pounds from its overall weight by fitting carbon-fiber front fenders and a trunk lid, along with titanium connecting rods and lighter interior trim.

To many enthusiasts at the time, this was the ultimate iteration of the most radical road-going Porsche 911 and a car to be treasured for years to come, with its status as a future collectible being immediately certain. It is no wonder that the 600 examples produced were delivered to some of the most loyal Porsche customers, and this example is no exception.

Number 499 of 600 was sold new through the famed Brumos Porsche dealership in Jacksonville, Florida. As shown on its Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, the car left the factory with an extensive list of options and equipment. Carrera White paint coats the body, which is enhanced with signature RS 4.0 graphics and color-matched white wheels. Bright red seat inserts, armrests, shifter, door handles, and brake handle provide an appealing contrast to the otherwise black interior. Leather with deviated stitching extends across the center tunnel, console, and upper dashboard with a Sport Chrono stopwatch at its center. Carbon-fiber trim surrounds the air vents, and the pedals are finished in aluminum. A front-axle lift system provides peace of mind when negotiating inclines and speed bumps, while carbon ceramic brakes ensure rapid, fade-free deceleration for even the most ardent track stormers.

Offered here on behalf of Blue Chip in Denver, Colorado, with just 4,226 miles showing on the odometer at the time of cataloguing, the car presents in wonderful condition, showing little wear thanks to the diligence of previous owners. As a personal touch, signatures from Le Mans winner Hurley Haywood and Andreas Preuninger, Porsche’s director of GT cars, can be found on the drivers kick plate and under the hood.

As the swan song of the 997 generation of 911s, the GT3 RS 4.0 is a holy grail to diehard marque enthusiast, combining the soulful character that the model is now famous for with groundbreaking, heart-racing performance. As is the case with all modern Porsche cars, uniquely optioned examples consistently prove to be the most sought-after and the example offered here certainly fits that desirable of category.