Danny, the LotusCup event at Sears point is the weekend of Sep 21. LotusCupUSA will usually join with another group that weekend to defray costs. We run 2-3 practice sessions, then qualifying then Race. Both on sat and sun.

I've raced SRF's in SCCA, haven't done NASA. LotusCup has combined with some PCA events e.g. - at Spring Mountain (we usually run the fastest times against them ). Out if all organizations, I've learned the most and developed the best friendships in LotusCup. The series has grown quite a bit. We even have track coaches that sit at turns and will coach all drivers on tips to improve those corners.
In terms of running costs, I'd say NASA and SCCA are cheaper. Then LotusCup then PCA. Then Ferrari Challenge which is crazy $$$.
PM me if you want more info.

 

To me, the GT3 is much more fun to track, and arguably
more durable. Not to mention many more shops for repair.

If you were 80 percent street and 20 percent, light track, I would chose the 430.

 

I say buy the F430 while the gt3 hit the used market.

 

OP, I remembered your post today while at Porsche of Stevens Creek (just there looking at a 2013 boxster s). Got talking with the sales guy and asked about the new gt3, I was surprised to hear him say that their entire allotment has already been spoken for. Said they received a ton of calls (from all over the country). I'd assume that they get a fair # of cars compared to other dealerships so the initial availability is going to be pretty tight from the sounds of it. This might be old news but thought I'd mention in case timing for your decision on a car was a factor. May need to wait a while if you go the gt3 route.

 

I'm on the same boat, but instead of the 430, i was looking at the LP560/570, and I'm also looking at Scuderia.

the price for these used in my area is about 30% cheaper than a brand new 991 GT3. So it could probably last me long enough until the new RS is out.

 

Currently own both - 997.1 GT3, 05 F430. The F430 has been durable and reasonable to drive, it is not a track car. It is all engine no tires and absolutely no brakes. The 997.1 and .2 are not near as good on the street as the F430, but both would crush a 430 on the track.

The new 991 will be more street able but still will not have the sound of a Ferrari at full song.

 

The F430 is going to be much cheaper to maintain than an F360 or earlier Ferrari. These are timing chain motors, not timing belt motors so one of the most expensive services is effectively eliminated.

The 991 GT3 is on a different planet when it comes to performance.

 

The 430 is Not a great track car.
The Scud is mind boggling and would be great both on the street and on the track. Would be super $$$ to maintain on track, especially if anything were to ever happen.
I don't plan in tracking mine, well maybe......

 

How bout this:

 

Porsche is definitely more durable and less headaches. Seeing that you are stressing importance on maintenance, I would say the clear choice is GT3.