The 911 R: Porsche’s Rawest Creation

Have you ever wondered what driving Porsche’s most hardcore 911 is like? The 911 R is a stripped-out, track-focused monster that delivers an unrivaled driving experience. Forget navigation, Bluetooth, or even a radio, the R is about raw performance and driving pleasure. You’re in for a wild ride. Slide into the carbon fiber bucket seats, grip the Alcantara steering wheel, and fire up the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six. The engine roars to life as you blip the throttle, sending shivers down your spine. This is motoring at its purest. With 500 horsepower, a six-speed manual gearbox, and rear-wheel drive, the R begs to be unleashed on your favorite winding road. Driving nirvana awaits. The R is a visceral thrill ride for enthusiasts who want the ultimate analog supercar experience. If you’re searching for driving purity, look no further than the 911 R.

Overview of the 911 R

The 911 R is Porsche’s rawest creation yet. This stripped-down, naturally aspirated beast is all about the drive.### Power and Performance

Under the hood, you’ll find a 4.0-liter flat-six engine putting out 500 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. With the standard six-speed manual transmission, it goes from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 3.7 seconds and tops out at 200 mph.

The R ditches niceties like navigation, air conditioning, and a stereo in favor of a roll bar, fire extinguisher, and carbon fiber bucket seats. At 3,021 pounds, it’s 220 pounds lighter than a base Carrera 4S. That means when you hit the gas, you go flying.

Handling and Braking

The 911 R also has a specially-tuned chassis, suspension, and brakes designed for performance driving. Up front, it has aluminum control arms, stiffer anti-roll bars, and lower ride height. The rear axle is also solidly mounted for better control.

Enormous carbon ceramic brakes provide fade-free stopping power, crucial when blasting around a track. Optional PCCB brakes are available if you plan on frequent high-performance driving.

With rear-wheel drive, an ideal weight distribution, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, the R sticks to the road like glue on the track or your favorite winding back road. For the purist, it doesn’t get much better than this.

The 911 R is a no-frills speed machine, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. If you’re lucky enough to get behind the wheel of Porsche’s rawest creation, be prepared for an unadulterated adrenaline rush like no other.

The 911 R’s Race-Inspired Design

The 911 R is Porsche’s rawest creation, with a design inspired by their rich racing heritage.

Aerodynamic body

The 911 R’s body is modeled after the 911 GT3 RS, making it one of the most aerodynamic 911s ever built. Its aggressive front fascia, rear wing, and sculpted side skirts generate massive downforce at high speeds to keep this rear-engine beast glued to the road.

Lightweight construction

To achieve maximum performance, the 911 R was built using lightweight materials throughout. Its carbon fiber reinforced plastic hood, roof, front fenders, bucket seats, aluminum doors, and magnesium roof panel shave weight wherever possible. At just 3,020 pounds, the 911 R is over 100 pounds lighter than a base 911 Carrera.

Race-ready cockpit

Step into the 911 R’s cabin and you’ll feel like you’re about to take the green flag. Its race-inspired interior features lightweight door panels and rear seats deleted in favor of a half-roll cage. Buttons dominate the 911 R’s center console and switch controlling features like the rear differential lock and stability control.

With a design focused on lightweight construction, aerodynamics, and a no-frills race-ready cockpit, the 911 R pays homage to Porsche’s competition cars of the past while delivering one of the most exhilarating driving experiences of any modern Porsche. Raw, visceral, and unapologetic, the 911 R is a legend in the making.

Inside the 911 R: A Focused Driver’s Cockpit

The 911 R’s interior is focused on the experience of driving. The rest of the world melts away once you slide into the supportive sports seats and grip the leather-wrapped steering wheel.

A Purposeful Cockpit

The cabin is devoid of distractions. No infotainment system, no cupholders, no fancy trim accents. Everything is centered on driving. The seats hold you in place, yet remain comfortable for long stints behind the wheel. The pedals are perfectly placed for heel-and-toe downshifting. The shifter clicks through the gears with a sense of precision.

Analog Gages

Retro-inspired analog gages communicate the 911 R’s vitals. A large tachometer front and center is flanked by smaller gages for road speed, engine oil pressure, and temperature. Watching the tach wind up and seeing the speedometer climb brings a thrill that no digital display can match.

Alcantara Interior

The headliner, A-pillars, sun visors, and parts of the door panels are covered in Alcantara, a suede-like synthetic material. Not only does it look upscale, but it reduces glare and helps muffle outside noise. Touches of leather, chrome, and brushed aluminum complete the cabin.

A Soundtrack to Match

Open the windows or drop the top to let in the unadulterated soundtrack from the naturally aspirated flat-six engine behind you. Its raspy bark is intoxicating, especially above 4,000 rpm. The lack of a stereo means the 911 R’s engine and exhaust notes are the only music you’ll ever need.

The 911 R’s cabin epitomizes the Porsche philosophy of form following function. It’s a place designed for thrill-seeking individuals focused on the experience of driving above all else. By stripping away unnecessary items and placing the driver first, Porsche created an environment that stirs the senses and rewards those who value driving purity. The 911 R connects you to the road in a way few other vehicles can match.

The 911 R’s High-Revving 4.0L Engine

The 911 R’s High-Revving 4.0L Engine

The heart of the 911 R is its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine. This high-revving powerhouse produces 500 horsepower at a heady 8,250 rpm. The key thing to note is that this engine loves to be revved and rewards drivers who do so. You’ll need to keep the tachometer needle above 4,000 rpm to access the 911 R’s power band and experience the full effect of its raucous soundtrack.

Redline arrives at a stratospheric 9,000 rpm, so don’t be afraid to wind it out through a few gears. The six-speed manual transmission is the only gearbox offered and is perfectly suited to the engine’s character. Short, precise throws make changing gears a joy. If you want the most visceral driving experience, keep the sports exhaust system open – your neighbors may not appreciate it, but you certainly will!

With a focus on lightweight components and removing unnecessary equipment, the 911 R tips the scales at just over 3,000 pounds. This feathery curb weight combined with the mighty engine results in a power-to-weight ratio better than a Carrera S. In a straight line, 60 miles per hour arrives in just 3.7 seconds. But the 911 R begs to be unleashed on rewinding roads where its chassis truly comes alive.

An available front axle lift system can raise the front end to avoid scraping the underside over rough terrain or steep driveways. Ceramic composite brakes provide immense stopping power with virtually no fade. The 911 R rides on ultra-sticky Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires for maximum grip.

While not the quickest or most advanced 911, the 911 R distills the essence of what makes Porsche’s rear-engine sports car so special. Raw, unfiltered, and bursting with character, the 911 R is a thrill ride for the most devoted of Porschephiles. For those lucky enough to own one, it’s an experience that simply can’t be replicated. The 911 R is Porsche’s rawest creation.

The 911 R’s Race-Tuned Chassis and Suspension

The 911 R is all about unfiltered performance. Porsche tuned its chassis and suspension for the track, with hardware and software that provide a visceral connection between driver and road.

Chassis

The R features a lightweight body shell, carbon fiber reinforced plastic front fenders and rear decklid, and thinner window glass, all to pare down curb weight. At just over 3,000 pounds, the R weighs nearly 200 pounds less than a standard 911 Carrera S. This featherweight construction allows its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine to propel the R to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds.

Suspension

Porsche installed stiffer anti-roll bars, springs, and dampers on the R for razor-sharp handling. The track-bred setup minimizes body roll in corners and dives during braking, keeping the R poised and planted.

Passive rear-wheel steering, standard on the 911, helps the R change direction with urgency. Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus, which brakes the inside rear wheel in corners to aid rotation, comes standard. Ceramic composite brakes, optional on the R, provide fade-free stopping power during performance driving.

Wheels and Tires

The R rolls on 20-inch center-lock alloy wheels wrapped in 245/35 ZR 20 front and 305/30 ZR 20 rear Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. These track-focused tires provide a tenacious grip for high-speed cornering and braking. Their soft rubber compound means less tread life but maximum stick on warm, dry pavement.

Rear-Wheel Drive

Unlike all-wheel drive 911 models, the R sends power solely to the rear wheels. The rear-drive layout saves weight and provides unadulterated feedback and control to the driver. With a deft right foot, the R’s rear end can be balanced on the throttle, allowing for power oversteer antics. For purists seeking a raw, undiluted sports car experience, the rear-drive R delivers in spades.

This focused, track-honed chassis, suspension, and drivetrain formula make the 911 R a singular machine in the 911 lineup. For die-hard enthusiasts, the R represents the pinnacle of the rear-engined sports car experience Porsche has cultivated for over 50 years.

What It’s Like to Drive the 911 R

The 911 R is Porsche in its purest form. Once you slide into the carbon fiber bucket seats, fire up that naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, and grab the Alcantara steering wheel, you’ll understand why Porschephiles consider this the holy grail of the 911 range.

Raw, Unfiltered Performance

With 500 horsepower and 338 pound-feet of torque, the 911 R rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. But straight-line speed isn’t what the R is about. This car is all about the experience of piloting a precision instrument down winding back roads. The steering is perfectly weighted and communicative, giving you a sense of connection to the road seldom found in modern vehicles. The six-speed manual transmission shifts with rifle-bolt precision. The R rides on special Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires for a tenacious grip. An active rear-axle steering system provides incredible agility.

###Purest of the Pure

Porsche stripped out anything that added weight but didn’t enhance the driving experience. There’s no radio or air conditioning, the door panels are bare carbon fiber, and the rear seats have been removed. The result is a curb weight of just 3,021 pounds, making the R the lightest 911 in decades.

A Future Classic

With only 991 units produced, the 911 R is destined to become a collector’s item. If you’re lucky enough to get behind the wheel of a 911 R, savor every moment. This is a rare opportunity to experience Porsche’s racing DNA distilled into its most potent form. The 911 R represents everything that made Porsche a legend, and it’s a car that will be coveted for generations to come.

In summary, the 911 R is a stripped-down, lightweight performer that offers one of the purest driving experiences of any sports car, at any price. For Porschephiles, it just might be the ultimate expression of everything that makes the 911 legend endure. This is a car that truly deserves to be called epic.

The 911 R’s Rarity and Collectability

The 911 R is an extremely rare beast, with only 991 units produced worldwide. Its limited production run and focus on performance and driving purity over creature comforts make it a highly sought-after collector’s item.

Within weeks of its 2016 release, 911 R models were selling for over $500,000 at auction, nearly double the original MSRP. Today, 911 R’s can fetch anywhere from $800,000 to $1.2 million depending on mileage and condition. For the 911 enthusiast or collector, the 911 R represents the pinnacle of the model’s raw performance and a possibly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of Porsche history.

The 911 R’s rarity comes down to its unique formula. It combines the 911 GT3 RS’s 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine with a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, in a lightweight body devoid of advanced driver assistance systems or infotainment. This purist approach to performance and handling results in a visceral, analog driving experience that is increasingly hard to find in today’s world of turbocharged engines and high-tech wizardry.

For the individual lucky enough to take delivery of one of the coveted 991 911 R’s, the model represents the chance to own a legend – albeit an expensive one. If history is any indicator, the 911 R’s value and prestige will only continue to rise over time as it cements its status in Porsche’s pantheon of most iconic and sought-after sports cars. The rarity, performance, and driving experience of the 911 R combine to create a collector’s dream that will be prized for generations to come.

Owning a 911 R means becoming a steward of automotive history and ensuring this raw, unadulterated interpretation of the 911 lives on. For the true Porschephile, that responsibility and honor may just be worth the price of admission.

Common Questions About the 911 R

The 911 R is Porsche’s rawest creation, so naturally, many Porschephiles have questions about this pared-down powerhouse. Here are some of the most common questions and answers about the 911 R:

Is the 911 R expensive?

In short, yes. With a base MSRP of over $184,000, the 911 R is one of the most expensive models in the 911 lineup. Its high price is due to its limited production and focus on performance. Only 991 units were built, and many see the R as an investment due to its rarity and status as an instant collectible.

What makes the 911 R special?

The 911 R is special because of what it lacks, not what it has. Porsche stripped out many features found in other 911s to make the R as lightweight as possible, including:

• No rear seats
• No air conditioning
• No infotainment system
• No door handles (use fabric door pulls instead)

It’s also equipped with a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine producing 500 horsepower, a six-speed manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive. This powertrain, combined with the weight savings, makes the 911 R an incredibly visceral driving experience.

Is the 911 R a good daily driver?

If you can afford a 911 R, you likely have another vehicle as your daily driver. The R is not practical for daily driving due to its sparse amenities and high-strung nature. It’s best enjoyed as an occasional track toy or weekend canyon carver. The stiff suspension, loud cabin, and temperamental engine do not lend themselves well to daily commuting or errand running. The 911 R is a special occasion supercar, not an everyday sports car.

Will the 911 R appreciate it?

Given its limited production, prestigious status, and focus on performance, the 911 R is very likely to appreciate substantially in value over time, especially if kept with low mileage in pristine condition. Some early models have already nearly doubled in price from their original MSRP. The 911 R represents old-school Porsche values that are sure to make it a coveted classic for generations to come.

Is the 911 R Worth Its High Price? FAQs

The 911 R is Porsche’s rawest creation and is aimed at the most hardcore enthusiasts. At over $184,000, it’s not cheap. Is it worth the high price tag? Here are some factors to consider:

Limited Production

Only 991 911 Rs will be produced, making it an instant collector’s item. Its limited production and handcrafted nature contribute to the lofty price. If you’re looking for an investment that will hold its value over time, the 911 R is a strong contender.

Pure Driving Experience

The 911 R is all about the driving experience. It lacks advanced driver assistance systems and entertainment features found in other 911 models to provide the most unadulterated driving feel possible. For purists seeking an old-school sports car thrill, the 911 R delivers.

High-Performance Specs

A 4.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine pumps out 500 horsepower, launching the 911 R from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. Its six-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, and lightweight design make for razor-sharp handling. If you crave neck-snapping acceleration and racecar-like cornering, the performance alone could justify the cost.

Limited Customization

The 911 R offers no options or customization beyond three pre-determined paint and interior combinations. What you see is what you get. For those wanting to personalize their Porsche, the 911 R’s lack of choices could be off-putting. However, for collectors wanting a ‘one-of-a-kind’ product, the 911 R’s minimalism has appeal.

Exclusivity

Only a select few will have the privilege of owning this automotive icon. The 911 R’s exclusivity and prestige attract the most diehard Porsche fans and collectors. If you desire a vehicle that makes a statement about your passion for the brand, the 911 R announces it loudly.

For the right buyer seeking an unadulterated driving experience, collector’s item, and badge of Porsche enthusiasm, the 911 R could be well worth its kingly ransom. But for those wanting more comfort, technology, or customization, Porsche’s ‘regular’ 911 models will satisfy at a lower cost. It comes down to what you value most in your vehicle.

Conclusion

So there you have it, the 911 R in all its analog glory. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one of the rare 991 examples Porsche is producing, be prepared for a visceral driving experience that connects you to the road like nothing else. With its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six, six-speed manual transmission, and stripped-down interior, the 911 R gives you an unfiltered taste of what the 911 was always meant to be. It’s a special car for the enthusiast who values purity of purpose over technological wizardry. The 911 R is a love letter to Porsche’s past and a reminder of why the 911 has endured. If you get a chance to experience this raw, unadulterated sports car, take it – you’ll be hard-pressed to find another modern vehicle that stirs the soul quite like the 911 R.