Joerg Bergmeister's 1:22.649 lap demonstrates aftermarket aerodynamics package worth up to $150,000.
A 2019 Porsche 911 GT2 RS fitted with Manthey Racing's aerodynamic upgrade package recorded a 1:22.649 lap at Road Atlanta. The time breaks the previous production car record. Professional driver Joerg Bergmeister piloted the modified machine.
The 2.2-second improvement over the standard GT2 RS record demonstrates how specialist tuning can extract additional performance from already track-focused machinery. Unlike the BMW M3's power-focused approach, Manthey's modifications target aerodynamics and suspension rather than engine output, according to Porsche's performance division data released May 2024.
Manthey Package Transforms Track Performance
Manthey Racing, partially owned by Porsche, develops upgrade packages specifically for 911 GT variants without adding power or removing weight. The company focuses on suspension geometry changes and enhanced aerodynamic elements that increase downforce generation. Three modified 911 models participated in the Road Atlanta testing session. Each vehicle carried the specific Manthey upgrade kit designed for its particular trim level. The European premium performance segment has seen increasing emphasis on aerodynamic refinement rather than pure power increases. Bergmeister described the enhanced cornering capability as reaching GT-class race car levels through improved downforce management.
Performance Gains Measured Across Three Models
The 2025 911 GT3 RS with Manthey upgrades posted a 1:23.032 lap time, making it the fastest naturally aspirated production car at Road Atlanta. The GT3 variant also recorded faster times compared to its standard configuration, though specific figures were not disclosed. Upgrade costs range from $70,000 to $150,000 depending on the base 911 model and specification level chosen. The price differential between minimum and maximum kit configurations represents a $80,000 spread. At the lower end, customers pay $70,000 for basic aerodynamic enhancements. Full specification packages reach $150,000, representing 110% markup over the entry-level kit. These modifications cost between 45% and 95% of a base 911 Carrera's $106,100 starting price.
Driver Feedback Highlights Aerodynamic Impact
Bergmeister emphasized the aerodynamic improvements' effect on vehicle dynamics during the record attempt. "The downforce of this car is simply incredible," he stated in Porsche's post-session analysis. "Cornering speeds are on the level of GT-class race cars." The professional driver noted specific improvements in suspension performance over track curbing and enhanced braking capability beyond standard GT2 RS levels. His comments highlight how aerodynamic modifications translate into measurable lap time reductions through increased cornering speeds rather than straight-line performance gains. The suspension modifications allow more aggressive curb usage without unsettling the vehicle's balance, according to Bergmeister's feedback.
Record Achievement Spans Multiple Configurations
The GT2 RS Manthey's 1:22.649 represents a 2.69% improvement over the previous record holder, also a GT2 RS but in standard configuration. This margin exceeds typical production car development gains, which average 1-2% between model generations. The naturally aspirated GT3 RS with Manthey kit became Road Atlanta's fastest non-turbocharged production car, distinguishing it from the turbocharged record holder. While Chevrolet's C8 Corvette faces production interruptions, Porsche continues expanding its track-focused offerings. The German manufacturer's approach contrasts with American sports car development, emphasizing aerodynamic refinement over displacement increases. Each of the three tested configurations achieved faster lap times than their respective standard versions, demonstrating consistent performance gains across the 911 GT range.
Manthey Racing has supplied aerodynamic packages for Porsche since 2013, with over 1,200 kits delivered globally. The company's Nürburgring facility employs 47 engineers dedicated to 911 development. Road Atlanta measures 2.54 miles with 12 corners and 226 feet of elevation change. The complete Porsche model history and specifications are catalogued in the Global Auto Index manufacturer database.
