I am looking at a 2003 Porsche GT2 to replace my stepson's 997 Aerobody NA car (not the S, the base model.) It has 26,000 miles - looks to be in very nice condition. I will drive it tomorrow morning. Does anybody have any comments on this car? (This is the turbo version of the GT3 - two wheel drive, no sunroof, emphasis on sports rather than luxury) For example - what were the performance specs on it, were there ever issues with it, has anyone else owned one, what might it be worth, etc... Thanks everyone - will report back when I have tried it out.
It's not a car for everyone. Like the CGT, it's earned the name the widow maker as it's a rather difficult car to handle. Mark
That is pretty much what everyone is telling me. Will let you know what I think after a test drive or two.
Hey - I have driven the 911 since 1969!!! (including the RUF 993 turbo CTR) What I am really interested to see is how much turbo lag it has, is it manageable in ordinary driving, etc...on top of just how fast it is.
I wouldn't trade an 997 C2 for a 996 GT2 and expect it to serve the same role...GT2 is not a do everything plush daily driver. more fun? yes. better on track? damn straight. better investment? absolutely. better daily driver? absolutely not.
Quick story - I had one of those first US 930 Turbos back in 1975 on order. The dealer took personal delivery of his before mine came in - and made the mistake of letting me drive it. Basic story - it really was practically undrivable - horrible (really horrible) turbo lag until 4000 RPM when it kicked in with about three times the power of a 911 of the time. Only a four speed transmission, so you could not keep it on boost unless you were going as fast as you possibly knew how. I cancelled it and bought a 911S Targa.
Which is why I started this thread...but we ARE enthusiasts, and this car looks like a real bargain. Like I said - will report back late Monday afternoon.
Car has reputation but times have changed and with current tires the car is much better to drive. Just the case as with CGT which continues to amaze me.
It only has 456hp are you guys kidding. Why is it so hard to drive? I know its rear wheel drive not a big deal. I guess a lot of you guys have not driven a high hp vehicle.
Cool car. Blast to drive. Nowhere near the lag of the 930 you drove. Score some spare lower front splitters.
Whenever I visit Rothsport Porsche and discuss the possibility of buying whatever turbo I've found they just roll their eyes and remind me that NA cars are simply better. Simplicity, lightweight, responsiveness, maintenance, etc. But if your heart is set on a turbo.... Good luck.
Omnivore, you should go drive a nicely set up turbo, 78-89. The maintenance is no worse than a n.a. car. I've seen the weights anywhere from 2400 -2900 lbs depending on creature comforts. They can be made to handle as well as any other 911. With the current turbo market all craving stock (boring), there're are some nice modified ones floating around at decent prices.
you are clearly a 911 guru so ultimately I think we will all yield to you however... it is not so much about ultimate power but more about delivery and chassis dynamics. it is by no means an impossible car to drive but instead it can be quite tricky. I suspect james would be a good owner!!
having been a long term owner of both...I would be dismissive of the comment "simply better" as that is simply NOT TRUE!!!
OK, I have driven it. I am going to sit down now with a cold beer and take some time to compose my report. Just for now, let me say that it is very quick, very fast, and very involving to drive. I am crazy about it.
The 996 GT2 reminds me of the old 930s. I love when the power comes on and all hell breaks loose. It's just too bad that the 996 doesn't look as nice as the classic, air cooled 911s. I'd probably go for a 997 GT2.
You cannot see those ugly headlights when you are sitting behind the wheel. I am still composing the report - I still love this thing.
You have to understand that I drove the 458 Ferrari Italia just the week before, and it did nothing for me the way this bad beast did.
having owned a 996 GT3, yes I understand. those cars were so "alive" compared to most of the cars for sale now (just 10 years later!)
Your right, the highest output vehicle I've driven is 380hp. The way the power comes in on those old turbos felt like a lot more power though. Edited to add, forgot about the E63 around 550hp. Still didn't feel as fast as the turbo on full boost.
