Porsche's ultra-lightweight RSR
Based upon the exclusive and already lightweight Carrera RS 2.7, the RSR 2.8 was offered by Porsche from 1973. A further 80 kg was trimmed from the RS, while the nominal capacity increase of just 119 cc belied the myriad technical changes within. Bigger valves, twin-plug ignition, raised compression ratio, and extensive lightening of internal components contributed to an increase from the 210 bhp of the RS to over 300 bhp. Wider Fuchs wheels and wheel arches, as well as a low-level front air dam with integral oil cooler, gave the RSR a much more aggressive disposition.
One of just 55 RSRs constructed for the 1973 season, this example was completed in February of that year and was immediately entered to the 12 Hours of Sebring in March by its owner Grey Egerton. Entered by Far West Racing, and with sponsorship from Pharr Yarns, Castrol, and Cibie, Egerton was partnered with SCCA and Trans Am rising star Elliot Forbes-Robinson.
After qualifying a respectable 7th, they went on to finish 4th overall at the notoriously hard Florida track representing an excellent inaugural outing for the team. Next up was the Watkins Glen 6 Hours – then a round of the World Sportscar Championship. Unlike Sebring, the race featured a full complement of works 3.0-litre sports prototypes, including three Ferrari 312 PBs, two Matra MS670Bs, and two Gulf-Mirage M6s, as well as a pair of ex-works Group 5 RSRs from the Penske and Brumos teams. Qualifying 5th in class, they enjoyed another solid run to finish in 11th place overall and 3rd in class.
RM Sotheby's will be offering this 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RSR 2.8 at their upcoming Porsche 70th Anniversary Sale on the 26th October. Its estimated value is between $2.4m - $2.8m. For more information on this and other vehicles at the sale, click on the link below. Photos: Stephan Bauer ©2018 Courtesy of RM Sotheby's.