Ruf has a reputation for building some fast interpretations of the Porsche 911, and the company's latest RGT 4.2 at the Geneva Motor Show provides an interesting point of comparison compared to the new GT3 RS that's debuting there.

In terms of pure power, the Ruf wins out. The company crafts a flat six with 4.2-liters of displacement making 518 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque with a top speed of 200 miles per hour. In contrast, the latest GT3 RS gets 500 ponies and 338 lb-ft of twist from its direct-injected 4.0-liter mill. Depending on your desires, the RGT 4.2 might have the preferred gearbox too with its six-speed manual versus the Porsche's PDK.

Styling is also going to come down to personal tastes between these two. The RGT 4.2 has an almost old-school racing look with its bolted-on fender flares, five-spoke wheels, thick carbon fiber rear wing and lower front air dam. Inside, there's also an integrated roll cage. The RS, on the contrary, appears thoroughly modern with its big fender intakes at the back, slashes just behind the front wheels, CFRP hood and magnesium roof.

Check out Ruf's naturally aspirated monster on the Geneva show floor in the gallery, above.

The RGT 4.2 maintains a long tradition of Ruf supercars with its outrageous driving performance. Unveiled in 2000, the first RGT was characterised by its powerful, torquey normally-aspirated flat-six engine. With a significantly reduced all-up weight and sports-oriented suspension system, the RGT was an extremely impressive driving machine.Now, in 2015, the RGT remains true its original concept, though its external appearance is clearly more athletic. The wheel arches are more bulbous and the front facade presents huge round air intakes for more effective cooling. The chassis is reinforced by RUF's hallmark Integrated Roll Cage (IRC). Propulsion is provided by its virile 4.2-litre six-cylinder, normally-aspirated engine, developing 525bhp and 500Nm of torque, featuring dry sump lubrication with external oil tank. A proper driving machine for sure

POWER
525 PS / 386 kW @ 8.370/min

TORQUE
500 Nm @ 5.820/min

DISPLACEMENT
4178ccm

TRANSMISSION
6-speed manual gearbox

TOP SPEED
322 km/h

FUEL CONSUMPTION
urban 19,8 l/100km
non-urban 9,8l/100km
combined 13,6 l/100km
CO2 emissions 317g/km
Effizienzklasse G

We've not been terribly nice to the aftermarket tuners of the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. That's largely because they don't deserve our kindness. Techart, though, is not going to be the subject of derision, largely because aside from painting this Porsche 911 Targa a particularly lurid shade of yellow (and finding seat upholstery and trim to match), the changes aren't particularly offensive. Hell, paint it black, silver or red, and it'd just look like a more aggressive Porsche.

That's largely because it is. Techart has behaved itself, fitting a brand new body kit featuring a new rear spoiler, diffuser, front splitter and side skirts, and replacing the much of the interior componentry with carbon fiber and aluminum components. The tuner doesn't mention the exact name of the shade used both inside and out on this Targa, although those with more conservative tastes will rest easy knowing that "stylistic harmony with standard or Techart individual paint is guaranteed."

Techart's deft aesthetic treatment hides a similarly light tweaking under the sheetmetal. This car features a new exhaust system, complete with four staggered exhaust pipes that have been finished in black chrome. And that's it. There aren't 17 turbos or a new intake manifold crafted from free-range ivory. It's the same 400-horsepower flat six found in a normal Targa 4S. Techart has fitted its own springs, although it doesn't tell us how much (or even if) the ride has been lowered. 21-inch alloys round out the more practical changes.

Check out our full gallery of live images of Techart's latest creation, direct from Geneva.


News from the TECHART world

03.12.2014

TECHART for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models
Closed roof – open driving pleasure. TECHART Automobildesign sharpens the character of the seventh Porsche 911 Targa 4 generation. Using the right mixture of restraint and emphasis the TECHART Aerodynamic Kit transfers the sportive TECHART design language to the unmistakable lines of the four-wheel drive sports car. TECHART Formula IV light-alloy wheels in 21-inch communicate aesthetic innovative capacity all around. Interior refinement specialists of the TECHART in-house saddlery use precise handiwork to translate the exterior design elements stylistically into the vehicle's interior.

TECHART Aerodynamic Kit for die Porsche 911 Targa 4 models.
Porsche 911 silhouette. Wide body with active taillight strip. And of course a glass roof with iconic aluminium bar. The seventh generation of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models carries on the heritage of its predecessors. The TECHART Aerodynamic Kit demands technical and functional quality, as well as a stylistic treatment of the original vehicle's characteristics and shaping. Made from a lightweight fibre composite of carbon and polyurethane RIM, it is distinguished by high levels of load-bearing capacity and dimensional stability with a low tare weight. The two-part TECHART Front Spoiler I with integrated splitter drags down the body visually closer towards the asphalt, generating a more sportive look. Hence it reduces the aerodynamic lift at the front axles. The combination of the TECHART Rear Spoiler II wing profile and the TECHART Diffuser add-on does not only create a vibrant look at the vehicle's rear, but also additional aerodynamic downforce. TECHART Aero Wings, which are integrated into the front air inlets, create a dynamic shaft outline and form the prominent TECHART family face in collaboration with the TECHART Air Outlet Grille at the front apron. TECHART Air Outlet Grille, TECHART Aerowings, TECHART Rear Diffuser add-on, TECHART Rear Spoiler Wing Profile and side mirrors can be ordered either painted or in carbon fibre. Distinguished by low tare weight and precise surface finishing, these carbon fibre parts set sincere motor sport styling highlights. In-house produced by body work specialists and selectively available in matt or glossy finish, they allow a precise adaption to the vehicle's aerodynamic design elements. Stylistic harmony with standard or TECHART individual paint is guaranteed. TECHART Side Skirts give the vehicle a compact appearance. TECHART Trims at headlamps and side mirrors do set visual highlights.

TECHART Wheels for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models.
The TECHART Individualization Program for the 911 Targa 4 models is underlined by the attractive TECHART Wheel Program. The TECHART Formula IV light-alloy wheel in sportive 5-twin-spoke design is available in 20- and 21-inch. The customer's choice of colours has virtually no limits. Whether bi-colour finish or standard and individual colours, an exact adaption to the vehicle's exterior design is possible at any time. The weight reduced TECHART Formula III forged wheel in 21-inch can also be ordered for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models in standard or individual colours, in bi-color finish as well as in ceramic burnished glossy smooth finish.

TECHART Suspension Options for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models.
The TECHART Sport Spring Kit brings the vehicle body closer to the tarmac.
The hydraulic TECHART Noselift System generates an additional 45mm of ground clearance (approx. 65 mm at front splitter) by lifting the vehicle level at front axle. While driving at speeds under 60 km/h the lifting and lowering is controlled by the press of a button at centre console. When exceeding a speed of 60 km/h the lowering takes place automatically. The TECHART Noselift System convinces due to reliability, rapid and quiet height adjustment, trouble-free retrofitting and TÜV certification.

TECHART Exhaust Systems Sport for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models.
The TECHART Sport Muffler Racing and the valve-controlled TECHART Exhaust System Sport are available for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models. The latter can be activated by a press of the button at center console. Hence the acoustic performance of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models gets significantly richer and more robust. The valve-controlled TECHART Exhaust System Sport can be used even when closed under full load across the entire speed range.
Both systems can be recognized even when the car is parked thanks to their black matt or chrome finish TECHART Sport Tailpipes in typical dual oval design. TECHART Sport Tailpipes are also available for the series-standard exhaust system of Porsche 911 Targa 4 models.

TECHART Interior Refinement for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 models.
The in-house saddlery uses precise handiwork to incorporate the exterior design of the TECHART individualization program for Porsche 911 Targa 4 models in the vehicle's interior. The illuminated TECHART Aluminium Door Entry Guards can be designed individually and represent an eye-catcher before the driver takes a seat behind the ergonomically shaped TECHART 3-spokes Multifunctional Sport Steering Wheel with TECHART Paddle Shifters. TECHART Aluminium Sport Pedals and the TECHART Aluminium Foot Rest provide ideal grip for precise control of throttle and brake. Whether TECHART decorative stitching, backrests for sport seats Plus in leather, safety belts or in-house produced TECHART Carbon Interior Styling Packages. All vehicle details pick up the stylistic theme constantly. Also in terms of the dashboard instruments, refined by TECHART, with easily readable TECHART Dials, harmonized rings and Sport Chrono device in leather.



Technical data (photo vehicle – as example)
TECHART Individualization Program for the Porsche 911 Targa 4S

Exterior & Aerodynamics
TECHART Front Spoiler I with front splitter in carbon fibre
TECHART Aero Wings
TECHART Air Vent in carbon fibre at front apron
Side mirrors (sport design) in carbon fibre
TECHART Headlamp Trims
TECHART Side Skirts
TECHART Rear Spoiler II
TECHART Rear Diffuser add-on in carbon fibre

Suspensions & Wheels
TECHART Formula IV light-alloy wheels in 5-twin-spoke design in 21-inch, high gloss black with outer rim in green
TECHART Sport Spring Kit
Brake calipers in green and TECHART logotype in black

Exhaust System
TECHART Exhaust System Sport with valve-control
TECHART Sport Tailpipes in stainless steel with embossed TECHART logotype, dual oval tube design, in black chromed finish

Interior
TECHART Carbon Interior Styling Package I (dashboard) in graphite grey matt finish
TECHART Carbon Interior Styling Package II (door trims) in graphite grey matt finish
TECHART Carbon Interior Styling Package VII (sports seat Plus back rests and trims) in graphite grey matt finish
TECHART 3-spokes-Sport Steering Wheel in leather black, decorative stitching and straight-ahead marker in grey
TECHART Paddle Shifters in black matt finish with symbols in green
TECHART Instrument Dials in green
TECHART Aluminium Sport Pedals anodized
TECHART Aluminium Foot Rest anodized
TECHART Aluminium Door Entry Guards, illuminated
TECHART Floor Mats in black with leather piping in carbo black and decorative stitching in silver
TECHART Comfort Kit Hood I in Alcantara, incl. 2 LEDs
Sun visors in leather

The new 911 GT3 RS breaks new ground. An experience that we want to share with you. The perfect driver for this job? Porsche works driver Brendon Hartley. Join him on his trip to the Nardo test track to see how the new 911 GT3 RS performs on track.

Matt reviews a 2015 Porsche 991 GT3 on Little Tujunga Canyon Rd! The 991 GT3 features a 475 HP flat-six engine, PDK gearbox, and in this base model, steel brakes.

Launching later this year

A thinly camouflaged prototype of the Porsche 911 Turbo S has been spied inside and out ahead of this year's official launch.

At a first glance it might look exactly the same as the current model but the exterior does host an array of changes, including different graphics for the headlight & taillight clusters, new LED daytime running lights, revised engine cover and modified door handles. The front and rear bumpers are hiding underneath a body-colored camouflage which indicates these have received some updates as well.

Stepping inside the cabin, the steering wheel seems to be sourced from the 918 Spyder and boasts a toggle switch mounted on the right-hand side. This prototype also appears to boast a larger display for the infotainment system while the buttons underneath have a slightly different layout compared to the outgoing model.

The facelifted 911 range will be unveiled later this year, possibly in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show where Porsche could bring an all-turbo lineup, with the exception of the 911 GT3 and 911 GT3 RS models. The Stuttgart-based company has already hinted at a 911 hybrid but they will probably wait until the next generation scheduled to come out towards the end of the decade.

For those who aim to push to the limit of the limit, the new 911 GT3 RS is the ultimate precision tool. Discover more in this video.

Costs €181,690

Instagram user pgrandhomme was able to take a few pictures with a violet Porsche 911 GT3 RS.

Porsche recently launched the 911 GT3 RS configurator (available here) where there are four paints to choose from: the standard white and GT Silver Metallic available without extra costs along with Lava Orange and Ultraviolet priced at $3,140. We've already seen the orange hue in Geneva as well as in Germany and now time has come to check out the violet paint which would be an interesting choice albeit somewhat splashy.

Already available on order, the Porsche 911 GT3 RS will start reaching customers in May with a new 4.0-liter flat-six engine pushing out 500 HP (368 kW) and 460 Nm (340 lb-ft). It's 10 kg (22 lbs) lighter than the 911 GT3 and will need only 3.3 seconds until 62 mph (100 km/h) prior to hitting a top speed in excess of 200 mph (322 km/h). Porsche has already announced the 911 GT3 RS has managed to lap the Nürburgring in 7 minutes and 20 seconds.

In terms of pricing, the model costs €181,690 in Germany, £131,296 in UK & Ireland and $175,900 in United States. There might not be a GT2 version as Porsche says the new GT3 can fulfill this role.

With its comparably skinny low-rolling resistance tires, the BMW i8 cannot keep up with a Porsche 911 GTS on track, but it’s not bad at it, and a more potent version with some tweaks could change the situation considerably.

BMW put a lot of focus into making the i8 efficient, so it would be interesting to see what would happen if they infused a little bit more Motorsport spirit. With more grip and a bit more power, the i8 could really being posing serious problems on track, as its electric boost would give it the acceleration edge over conventional rivals.

At least that’s the impression I was left with after watching it face off against the 911 GTS in the EVO video below. It looks like it’s nearly there in terms of performance, but that there’s definitely more to extract from it.

Deliveries start in May

A brand new Porsche 911 GT3 RS painted in Lava Orange has been spotted in Germany.

Photographed at the airport in Stuttgart, this particular 911 GT3 RS appears to be a customer car even though Porsche has previously announced they will kick off deliveries in May. It carries a starting price of €181,690 in Germany and will likely remain the range-topping version of the 991 generation as Porsche said there are slim chances of seeing a GT2 since they believe the GT3 RS is hardcore enough.

This splashy paint costs an extra €2,653 and for the same amount of money the 911 GT3 RS can receive an Ultraviolet paint while silver and metallic hues are available without any additional costs. Regardless of paint choice, all cars are getting gray 20-inch front & 21-inch rear alloy wheels optionally available with a silver (€238) or a satin black finish (€577).

As a reminder, its heart and soul is a naturally aspirated flat-six 4.0-liter engine with 500 HP (368 kW) and 460 Nm (340 lb-ft) of torque, enough for a 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) run in 3.3 seconds and a top speed of more than 200 mph (322 km/h).

Two top athletes. One track. Which one would you prefer?

Follow the fashion photographer and blogger Scott Schuman (“The Sartorialist”) on his trip from Milan to Paris with a unique companion: the new 911 Targa 4 GTS. The perfect combination of two genres – performance and iconic design.