Porsche’s final send off for the Type 997 was quite possibly the most hardcore, driver-focused 911 built to date. With only 600 examples built in 2011 right as the current generation was released, the engine factory was commanded to restart production by the top brass in order to properly farewell the 997 generation of the famed German sports coupe.

The engine was the highlight of this GT3 RS 4.0. As the name implies, the 3.8-liter engine of the standard Rennsport GT3 was replaced by a mighty 4.0-liter version of the flat-six. Up until that point, this was the largest engine ever fitted in the rear of a street-legal 911. As a track-focused thoroughbred, Porsche lifted this motor from its competition GT3 R and RSR race cars. As such, many of the high-tech track-specific components also found their way onto the street.

The increased displacement was the result of a longer stroke, while titanium connecting rods and a single mass flywheel kept the internals as light as possible. One of the biggest emphases by the engineering team was increasing airflow into the engine. A modified intake manifold with shorter runners, high-flow air filter, and a less restrictive exhaust not only allowed the engine to breathe better, but also gave the RS the distinctive Porsche howl. In all, a total output of 500 horsepower secured the position of most powerful naturally aspirated six-cylinder in the world. A 0–60 time of 3.8 seconds and a redline-limited top speed of 193 mph enshrined the 4.0 as a vehicle capable of serious speed.

Keeping the car’s weight to a minimum was also an area of intense focus for project leader Andreas Preuninger and his team. Carbon fiber was utilized in the construction of the hood, front fenders, and seats, resulting in the feather-like 3,020-pound curb weight. Possibly the last Rennsport 911 to come fitted with a manual gearbox, this decision was made to keep the car driver focused and because the PDK was deemed too heavy. Buyers were also allowed to option out the radio and air conditioning, though the car on offer features both.

From a handling perspective, Porsche fitted the most aggressive aerodynamic package ever seen on a 911 to date. A massive rear wing in conjunction with a larger front splitter and dive planes allowed serious levels of downforce at speed. Dynamic engine mounts, while adding four pounds, firmed during hard cornering in order to keep the rear-mounted engine’s mass in check. Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires, fitted as standard, provide immense grip and make sure the car is ready for track duty at a moment’s notice.

This final example of the 997 generation is a truly special car and is a must-have for any serious Porsche collector. Famed motoring journalist and RS 4.0 owner Chris Harris once proclaimed that this vehicle housed the finest production engine in the world. Even more exclusive on this continent, only 126 of the total production run ever made it to the United States, making this one of the most exclusive modern Porsches ever. Options were limited from the factory; only two official colors were available, black and white, with this model being the latter.

An impeccable example, this 2011 GT3 RS 4.0 has clocked only 690 miles since leaving the factory doors. This vehicle is destined to be a classic and is a worthy investment for anyone looking for one of the most driver-focused vehicles ever put into production.