16 MPG combined is the unavoidable truth when discussing the 2019 Porsche 911 GT3 RS. It’s a fuel economy figure that would be appalling in most modern cars, outright disqualifying them for many buyers. However, the GT3 RS isn’t “most cars.” This is a precision-engineered weapon built for peak performance, a street-legal race car where every gram of weight and every drop of fuel is meticulously managed for one purpose: shattering lap times. The buyers of this machine understand, and largely accept, the trade-off.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the EPA estimates, the 2019 911 GT3 RS manages 15 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the car’s highly strung, naturally aspirated 4.0L flat-six engine and its programming, which prioritizes immediate throttle response and maximum power delivery. The close-ratio seven-speed PDK transmission, while incredibly responsive on the track, is less concerned with fuel-sipping efficiency in everyday driving. Start-stop technology is absent because of how it impacts the immediacy of power delivery when starting from a standstill. This is not a car designed for leisurely cruising; it demands to be driven hard.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Porsche 911 GT3 RS to be $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assumes the use of premium gasoline. The actual cost can vary greatly depending on individual driving habits and local fuel prices. Given the GT3 RS’s purpose, it’s unlikely that owners will be putting 15,000 miles on it annually, and when it IS driven, it will likely be in demanding conditions that hurt fuel economy even further. Track days, spirited weekend drives, and aggressive acceleration will push that fuel cost even higher.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the GT3 RS rarely matches the official numbers. Owners report seeing figures closer to 12-14 MPG in mixed driving. Track days will completely obliterate any semblance of fuel efficiency, with single-digit MPG figures being common. If you are spending more than five sessions a day on the track, expect to fill the tank multiple times. Factor that into the overall cost of ownership.

How it compares

The GT3 RS isn’t trying to compete in the fuel economy arena, but understanding its position relative to other high-performance vehicles provides context. A comparable car, such as the 2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, manages a slightly better 17 MPG combined, even with its supercharged V8. The Mercedes-AMG GT R comes in at 18 MPG combined. Even a comfortable model like the 2019 Audi R8 V10 Performance will achieve 16 MPG combined thanks to its more laid-back demeanor and fuel-saving strategies. The purpose of noting the disparity isn’t to showcase the GT3 RS’s inefficiency, but simply to illustrate the trade-offs inherent in its singular focus. Those seeking better fuel economy within the Porsche family can explore 911 MPG across all years and various trims.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maximizing fuel efficiency in a 911 GT3 RS is an exercise in futility, but one can still make small adjustments to conserve fuel on the street. Gentle acceleration and avoiding unnecessary aggressive throttle inputs will make a noticeable difference, as the flat-six is quite sensitive to throttle application.

Proper tire inflation is critical not only for handling, but also for reducing rolling resistance. Regularly check tire pressures and maintain them at the recommended levels specified on the door sticker or in the owner’s manual. High performance tires, especially when underinflated, can increase fuel consumption significantly.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the car. The GT3 RS is designed to be lightweight, so adding extra baggage will only hinder performance and decrease fuel economy. Remove any items that are not essential for your drive, especially when heading to the track.

While tempting, resist the urge to constantly rev the engine or engage in spirited driving on public roads. Save the high-revving action for the track, where it can be fully appreciated in a controlled environment, as stop-and-go conditions will destroy fuel economy. Find all Porsche fuel economy data here.