I'll back up the statement above. GT3's have a much more primal feel not achieved by any current 911 with the possible exception of a GT2. I know I will miss mine if we ever part. I'm concerned that while likely faster, the 997 version will not provide the same experience given the added electronic aids and sunroof.

 

Nelson, I have to agree, the 996 models took away the feel of the 993 porsches rawness. Yes the 996 was a step up in performance and ability, but something about driving around in the 993 makes me feel PORSCHE! The GT3 takes one back to that. The driving feel is second to none.

 

Here's the problem I have with the GT3. The ride is not the issue. It's fine. My wife and I actually just drove from phoenix to Vegas via the 93 - and she commented that it is much more comfortable than she assumed it would be.

Here's the real thing that will annoy you in the GT3. Road noise and the bad radio/CD Player. I realize that you give that up to lighten the car - but when you are trying to have a phone conversation - the noise can be an issue.

Just my .02 on what I find bothers me about the car when I drive it.

 

Mine is driven daily and I have no complaints. I even have Euro Gt3 seats and muffler bypass pipes which I love. If you do track, def get the GT3. What you gain on the track over every other car is worth any nuisances on the street. It really is not all that bad to drive daily. I think older 911s, even 964s, and 993s were tougher as daily drivers than the GT3.

 

I would have to 2nd BoyRacer here. On the track it's pretty dang incredible. Tight, responsive and raw.

 

Lone,
I have talked with you on rennlist, correct?
Keep the GT3.

 

This is solid advice that I concur with. I drive my GT3 once a week on a sunny day just to get my fix. Not that I couldn't drive it five days but the reason I don't is not the usual comment about rough ride, tiresome twitchiness, etc. It is simply because I'd get too frustrated not being able to let it rip. If you have a 3 having a solid but fun DD like a 3 series is the way to go. But if your choice is limited to one car to do it all, I'd actually go for a base Carrera. I used to drive my 996 C2 as a DD including in winter and it was a great commuting car that could turn into a beast when required. I've also driven the 997 version at the Porsche Driving Experience school and had a chance to compare it to a 997S. Sure the S is quicker but not by much. People seem to forget that the base 3.6L is a fantastically quick car and can be bought for good value in either the 996 or 997 version.

 

When do you think we will start getting some real feedback on the 997 GT3? when will they start appearing in europe?