Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera

Porsche 911 2.7 RS Carrera

The Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 stands as one of the most significant sports cars ever created and arguably the most collectible air-cooled 911. Developed as a homologation special for Group 4 racing, Porsche needed to produce 500 examples but ended up building 1,580 due to overwhelming demand. The RS (RennSport or Racing Sport) featured an enlarged 2.7-liter flat-six producing 210 horsepower through Bosch mechanical fuel injection, giving it a significant power advantage over standard 911s.

The most distinctive feature was the integrated ducktail rear spoiler, designed to reduce lift at high speeds. This functional aerodynamic element became one of the most iconic design features in automotive history. Weight reduction was achieved through thinner steel for body panels, lightweight bucket seats, deleted sound insulation, thinner glass, and aluminum components. The lightest Touring version weighed just 900 kg (1,984 lbs), creating an exceptional power-to-weight ratio.

The driving experience was pure and unfiltered. The lightweight chassis, precise steering, and rev-happy engine created phenomenal engagement. The rear-engine layout meant lift-off oversteer was always present, demanding skill and respect. In motorsport, the RS achieved tremendous success in touring car racing and rallying, proving its capabilities against more exotic competition.

Two main versions were offered: the lightweight Sport version with thin body panels and minimal equipment, and the Touring version with more comfort features and sound deadening. Today, the 2.7 RS is among the most valuable Porsches, with pristine examples commanding well over $1 million. The lightweight Sport versions are particularly prized. The RS's combination of iconic styling, motorsport success, lightweight purity, and driving excellence makes it the holy grail for many Porsche collectors.