Arguably one of the most sought-after, air-cooled Porsches, the 911 Carrera RS 3.8 is, to put it simply, a road-going race car with an interior. Specifically conceived as a homologation special, the car was based on the Carrera Cup competition car; producing the car for the masses allowed the RSR 3.8 to qualify for BPR GT3 and GT4 racing. Adding to its exclusivity was the fact that it was offered only to the European market.

Powered by the 300-hp 3.8-liter normally aspirated engine (Type M64/20), the car was fitted with Porsche’s innovative Variocam variable-length intake system and also featured newly designed forged pistons of a reduced height and a relocated wrist-pin, helping to keep piston weight below that of the base engine. The new engine also sported dual oil coolers and lightened rocker arms, amongst a host of additional upgrades that heightened the car’s performance. The power is delivered from a Type G50/31 six-speed manual transmission, with gearing optimized for acceleration.

In addition to the upgraded engine, Porsche went to great lengths to make the Carrera RS as light as possible. Anything deemed unnecessary was removed from the car. This included central locking, radio speakers, power-adjustable seats, electric windows and mirrors, sound insulation, air bags, the rear defroster, and even the headliner. The weight shedding continued to parts of the car that were deemed necessary, with engineers utilizing thinner window glass, a lighter aluminum front boot lid and doors, Recaro seats, and lightweight interior door panels with fabric pulls.

This 1996 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.8 is presented in Polar Silver Metallic, a special-order color. The car was originally delivered to Japan, interestingly enough as a left-hand-drive example. It was optioned with a stronger battery, front air bags, air conditioning, electric windows, and the Carrera RS Club Sport rear spoiler. The car has covered only 10,629 km (6,600 miles) from new and was recently imported from Japan. It rides on a beautiful set of Speedline three-piece wheels.

For the enthusiast for whom performance is top priority, there can be no better choice.