Manthey Racing, a German motorsport team with three decades of experience developing Porsche race cars, has unveiled two limited-edition models to mark its 30th anniversary. The vehicles, the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup MR 30 and the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport MR 30, will each be produced in just 15 copies, totaling 30 cars. Both will debut publicly at the DTM finale on the Hockenheimring, as Porsche increased its ownership stake in Manthey to 67 percent.
A 4.2-Liter Flat-Six Revolution
The 911 GT3 Cup MR 30 represents a significant evolution of the 992-generation chassis. Manthey Racing increased the engine displacement from the standard 4.0 liters to 4.2 liters, boosting output to approximately 560 horsepower. This places the powerplant between the regular 911 GT3 Cup and the full-blown 911 GT3 R race cars that compete in IMSA, WEC, and DTM. While the exact redline remains undisclosed, the engine is capable of exceeding 9,200 rpm, matching contemporary race cars.
The engine upgrade reflects a shift in Manthey’s development focus. Historically, the company gained recognition for engine modifications, such as its 3.9-liter conversion for the 996-generation GT3. Modern efforts, however, emphasize aerodynamic refinement, brake cooling, and suspension tuning. The MR 30’s revised package includes a wider rear wing measuring 180 centimeters, a central radiator layout for improved airflow and durability, and enhanced cooling inlets for the brake ducts.
Additional carbon fiber components reduce weight both inside and out, including a lightweight carbon intake box. The suspension features six-way adjustable dampers, revised spring rates, and retuned geometry, offering more adjustability than current Cup models. A development version of the car recorded a 7:58.605 lap time on the NLS configuration during summer testing, suggesting the final version is even faster.
For buyers, the 911 GT3 Cup MR 30 carries a price tag of approximately €419,400 in Europe before taxes and delivery, while U.S. customers will pay $580,000 through Porsche Motorsport North America, inclusive of import duties and freight. The car’s design includes a white-and-red anniversary livery inspired by Manthey’s historic Nürburgring 24 Hours entries, with a white paint job on the chassis to echo classic Porsche racecars.
Engine Specifications and Track Testing Highlights
The 911 GT3 Cup MR 30 features a 4.2-liter water-cooled flat-six engine, delivering approximately 560 horsepower. This powertrain closely aligns with the 911 GT3 R models competing in IMSA, WEC, and DTM. The vehicle utilizes a 992.1 chassis, incorporating advanced engineering to match contemporary race car performance.
The 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport MR 30 was tested at Virginia International Raceway, where its balance and agility left a lasting impression. Manthey Racing optimized the model with extensive carbon fiber components, achieving significant weight reduction while maintaining the 493-horsepower engine.
A Fond Farewell to the Cayman
The 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport MR 30 takes a different approach, focusing on weight reduction and aerodynamic efficiency rather than increased displacement. Manthey describes it as the culmination of over a decade of Cayman-based racing development, tracing back to the original 981-generation Cayman GT4 Clubsport homologation kit. The current 493-horsepower flat-six engine remains unchanged, revving to 9,000 rpm.
Significant weight savings come from extensive use of carbon fiber, including fenders, headlights, hood, bumpers, decklid, rear wing, and diffuser. These modifications shave roughly 12.5 pounds compared to the standard GT4 RS Clubsport. As with the 911, the Cayman adopts a central radiator setup and upgraded brake cooling systems derived from the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport Evo program.
Priced at $390,000, the Cayman MR 30 marks the end of an era for the model. Manthey plans to transition future GT4-based racers to the 911 GT4 R platform. The car features anniversary graphics in white and red, numbered plaques, embroidered seats, and enlarged wing endplates.
Customers can place orders through October 30, after which the 15 examples of each model will be allocated. Production for the Cayman begins in November 2026, with deliveries expected to start then, while the first 911 GT3 Cup MR 30s are slated for early 2027.
30 Cars, 30 Years
However, he emphasized that the cars are designed for those seeking to explore the unique character of the 4.2-liter engine in a Cup car chassis. He highlighted the engine’s special qualities and encouraged drivers to experience the cars on the track, noting the opportunity to race them in their intended environment.
