“We are at a disadvantage compared with some competitors because our engine is right at the rear of the car,” Preuninger says. “We have to bring air back there in enough quantity to make 700 hp, and you need a lot of oxygen for that.”

To help, the scoops on the engine cover lead to a new airbox with five tubular filter elements that offer the maximum surface area for the size of package and deliver 15 to 20 percent more airflow. The intercoolers are 15 percent bigger and sit lower in the car, and a system that sprays water on the intercooler matrix when intake air temperatures exceed 122 degrees F, with 90 percent throttle openings, can reduce intake air temperature by as much as 68 degrees.

Preuninger says early in the GT2 RS’ development, the powertrain engineers figured the system would be worth looking at if it showed a reduction of 40 degrees, and they were stunned when testing showed reductions of up to 60 degrees. “It’s a real example of how you can’t calculate everything,” he says. “You have to try stuff out.”

The water spray system is fed by a 1.3-gallon tank, and because of its extreme operating parameters, Preuninger says it won’t often need refilling. If it does run dry, the engine management system simply dials back the available power. Refilling the tank, which is mounted in the trunk and easily accessible, is as easy as buying a bottle of distilled water.