New 911 RSR Debuts at Daytona (Video)

Porsche’s New Mid-Engine 911 RSR Ready to Rip in Competitive Debut

Following decades of tinkering with a rear-engine layout, Porsche is joining the mid-engine field in competitive racing. Their answer comes in the form of the new 911 RSR. It sports a brand new, lightweight 4.0 liter flat six cylinder mounted mid ship. And after months of anticipation, Porsche’s latest race car is set to debut at the Rolex 24 at Daytona.

The race marks the beginning of Porsche’s foray into both the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and FIA World Endurance Championship. With 510 naturally aspirated horsepower and a completely new car, the legendary sports car maker seems poised for success against stiff competition.

Switching to a mid-engine layout not only improves weight distribution but also allows for a more aggressive rear diffuser. That impressive wing sits where the engine used to reside, improving stability through corners and while braking. And unlike the old rear engine car, the 911 RSR should enjoy longer rear tire life as a result.

Porsche conducted 21,000 miles of testing in preparation for race season. During that time, they discovered the need for enhanced cooling for the engine. They accomplished that task by converting the rear window to cycle cool and hot air to and from the engine bay.

But perhaps the most impressive feat comes from what you can’t see. The new 911 RSR looks like a 911 – not some hacked up race car. With a surface that hides some pretty big changes underneath. And Porsche is so confident in the new car that it is rolling it out at the very first big race of the year.

With Porsche’s long history of racing success, the 911 RSR obviously has some pretty big shoes to fill. But theĀ brand’s new car shows a ton of promise in a competitive and exciting field.

Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brandsā€™ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.
He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.