The 1974 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.0 is considered the ultimate version of the naturally aspirated Porsche 911 designed for racing purposes. It incorporates lessons learned from previous 911 models and features elements inspired by the successful Porsche 917.
When configured for the road, the 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine in the Carrera RS was slightly de-tuned compared to the 1973 RSR engine, now featuring an aluminum crankcase instead of magnesium. With 230 horsepower at 6200 rpm, it was the first 911 model to have a 9.8:1 compression ratio, requiring premium fuel. The power was sent to the rear wheels through a manual five-speed transaxle equipped with a limited slip differential.
Despite having wider running gear and a less aerodynamic body, the RS 3.0 could reach a slightly higher top speed than its predecessor, the RS 2.7. The increased power from the 3.0-liter engine made the 1974 RS impressively fast, achieving 0 to 62 mph in just 5.2 seconds.
Porsche made only fifty-five units of the 911 Carrera RS 3.0. Most of them were used by their initial owners in Group 3 competitions, while only a few ended up with enthusiasts who considered them some of the most thrilling and dynamic road cars ever built.
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