After the extended run of air cooled 911s, Porsche introduced the first completely new 911 since the model's inception, the radically restyled and water-cooled 996, in what was by then already a 35-year-old career. One year later, Porsche produced a pure sports version to enable it to homologate its racing cars, and all were surprised to find it was not to be graced with the 'RS' moniker, like its air-cooled predecessors that began with the 1973 2.7 RS. Instead, Porsche appended a new name to it, the 'GT3' badge relating to its intended category of racing. With the GT3 line, Porsche had bred what is now widely regarded as the most focussed breed of road cars, equally suited to use on track. From this point until its demise in 2012, the Hans Metzger-designed, race proven, flat-six motor was only used in Porsche's GT3 and GT2 cars, all other 911s, Boxsters and Caymans using an unrelated, cheaper to manufacture, direct-injection flat-six. Routine tests which this engine was subjected to, during development for use in this ultimate GT3, included running at full load continuously for 3000 km. The first generation 997 3.6 litre GT3 proved a massive improvement over the 996 and the second generation 997 GT3 with its enlarged 3.8 Litre engine was better still, these later cars, of which just 2,200 examples were produced worldwide, and only around 5% were right hand drive. These would prove to be the last iteration of the Metzger powered manual Porsche GT3 and since their delivery, these cars have been incredibly sought after from new. This example was supplied new to its sole custodian by Porsche Centre Reading on 19th July 2010. Optioned in Aqua Blue Metallic over black Nomex, this example saw contrasting RS Gold decals and trimwork. This example was further optioned with the most desirable options: the near-mandatory front axle lifting sytem and extremely sought after Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes. The options list sees a series of 'X' codes, bespoke options beyond the standard range; these include belt outlets in b-pillar painted in body colour, centre console in body colour, yellow seat belts and an Alcantara centre console storage cover with embossed Porsche script. After an initial service with Porsche Centre Guildford in 2011, the GT3 RS returned since to Porsche Reading exclusively for its biannual maintenance. Mileage in between is fully supported by MOT documentation. Offered today with 35,600 miles from new, this example presents superbly and is fitted with both carbon ceramic brakes and front axle lifting system. This example is available to view at our showrooms outside London immediately.