Porsche is giving well-funded racing enthusiasts a new way onto the track with the “entry-level” 911 Challenge. Priced from $275,000, this track-only racer replaces the 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport in Porsche’s motorsport lineup—although calling it affordable is certainly a matter of perspective.

At 180.0 inches / 4.57 meters long and weighing an estimated 2,840 lbs / 1,288 kg in race trim, the 911 Challenge combines components from Porsche’s motorsport arsenal. Its naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six delivers 508 hp / 515 PS and revs to 9,000 rpm, with power sent through a seven-speed PDK.

Adjustable ABS, traction control and torque vectoring help keep drivers out of the barriers, while the stripped cabin features an FIA-spec roll cage and a 29-gallon / 110-liter fuel cell. The car also receives 911 Cup suspension components and integrated air jacks.

Is electronic assistance a compromise for a pure track car? Would a manual gearbox make the Challenge more appealing? And does a $275,000 racer look like a bargain next to a road-going GT3 RS?