The internet rumour-mill is buzzing with news that Porsche is planning a road-going version of its RS Spyder racing car, following a report claiming just that in French magazine L’Automobile.
The 2008 Le Mans class winner
Although the report is not substantiated by any named sources,
says the new RS Spyder road car will be powered by a 400bhp version of the racer’s 3.4-litre V8. In race trim the engine churns out over 500hp at 10,000rpm.
Apparently the new machine will be built around a carbon fibre monocoque, and Porsche’s ‘ultimate’ road car has been conceived to fill the hole left by the Carrera GT – itself a relic of Porsche’s cancelled 1999 Le Mans project.
The RS Spyder, in contrast, won the LMP2 class at Le Mans last year, as well as clinching the 12 Hours of Sebring.
With its super-light weight and relatively short wheelbase – approximately 8ins longer than a 911 – the RS could make a formidable road car. Let’s hope this is one rumour with legs!