Year: 1993-1996 | Generation: 964 | Units built: 55
Engine: 3.8L Air-cooled Flat-6 | Power: 300 bhp | 0 – 60 mph: 4.9 s | Top Speed: 170 mph
Is it cheating that we have two 964 Carrera RS models on our list? We don’t think so.
In 1992 Porsche produced the super-lightweight, rear-wheel-drive only version of the 964 dubbed Carrera RS for the European market (it the car above you just read about). The Carrera 3.8 RS is even more ultra-limited. 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.
The car featured the wide-body look of the Type 964 Turbo, had a massive rear spoiler, and three-piece Speedline wheels. It was powered by a 300 bhp 3.8 liter version of the M64 motor. This engine was bored out by 2 mm for a total of 3,746 cc, and was also available in a more powerful competition version called the 3.8 RSR. 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 six-speed manual transmission had gearing optimized for acceleration and the track.
The competition RSR version, which was distinct from the “standard” model with an interior and exterior stripped down and modified for circuit use, would rack up stunning race results, winning overall at the Spa 24 Hours, Suzuka 1000 KM, and 24 Hours of Interlagos, while clinching class victory.