Zeus993

Just looking at jumping back into a 997.1/2 GT3. Is there really that much difference between the .1 and .2?

Anyone owned both / one and then the other at some point in time?

Thanks,

JP

Robocop305

ChrisF

Both are great. I'd argue the suspension refinement, DEM's, .2 liters and revised interior make for a more enjoyable car. When i put down my dollars, that's what I bought (997.2).

There is no wrong choice.

Vocan

I think that as these cars get older the differences matter less and less. The .2 has a more refined suspension from the factory but as these cars are approaching 15-20 years old and many have seen a good bit of track use, a lot of these cars aren't far off from a suspension refresh anyways to get the most out of them. If you insist on having Porsche parts, you can run either .1 or .2 suspension bits on a .1 with DSC when you do that refresh. Or you can swap to Ohlins, MCS, etc. and have better performing coilovers than either a .1 or .2 for less money. Interior differences mattered a lot more when PCCM+ wasn't an option on .1s as the original PCM is really dated.

If the look of one of them speaks to you more then I'd say to go down that route but otherwise you can't go wrong with either car and the overall experience is very similar. Find the nicest example of either that you can within your budget and enjoy it

DJWGT3

Have owned a MK1 for 4 years and now have a MK2. Both great cars. mk2 is more refined from the interior perspective- and the upgraded looks of the mk2 I do prefer (wing, front). Powerwise for me there is no difference, I,m not able push the GT3 as much as my driving skills are much to be improved.

What is a + for me is the addition of PSM (instead of only TC) so when in the wet in the swiss alps you'll feel much secure. I do like the CL look and there are much less MK2 produced (in general 911) so it keeps a more rare sight.

Overall I think you should be happy with both models- buy and dirve the car and stick to it- these are the next best thing in the line of great (and expensive) cars. Only 2200 produced (for each model MK1 and MK2).

Hamhands

Buy the best example you can based on your preference in appearance.

Zeus993

Thanks, guys. Appreicate your feedback. Good to hear on the swapable suspension between the .1 and .2.

As for the PCM, I just don't listen to music or talk on the phone when I'm driving these cars. Our Macan, yes, but a nice loud 911 or Spyder, no. So I must admit I'm leaning to a .1..

JP

jreifler

Unless you're driving them back-to-back, the differences are negligible.

The radio and HVAC controls on .1 are a little dated relative to .2. But the aesthetics are a matter of personal preference, and once you're actually driving one, the very last thing you're thinking about is the center console . . .

The PASM on .2 is definitely more refined. .1 ride is thus a bit harsher / less nuanced, but not in a way that impacts confidence in the car or its actual handling for most mortals. If you're wringing out 10ths of seconds on lap times, the .2 will be faster.

The 3.8 has a torque advantage. It's felt most noticeably between 3-6k. I find the .1 motor to have a more linear power and torque delivery, and overall, to be a smoother revving motor.

Truly all minor differences in the grand scheme. Agree with observations to choose on condition and spec, and on whatever else strikes you emotionally. Not a bad decision to be made.

Bxstr

If you did want the better PCM, the PCCM+ is a great upgrade.

vma1788

Had both. Can't go wrong. I would say buy the car you can afford. Not sure what people mean when they say the 3.6 feels revier. I think they both feel a bout the same. Maybe off-idle revs on the 3.6 are a bit more crisp.

.2 has much better (usable) oem audio equipment, while the .1 you need to upgrade or just delete the radio.

DDSLT5

This is an excellent summary.

monk46

I have both. All of the above are accurate - mostly subtle differences, the .2 being a bit more refined.
You will likely get the most satisfaction out of the best example of either that you can find.

RAudi Driver

there is nothing better than getting a car in great condition with no issues.

shotor

What monk said above.

.1
No cam actuator problems
No CL
Dated radio - But now with factory update
Little less torque - Will you notice on the street?
Theoretically installation of rear seats easier

.2
No sunroof [I like this]
Little more torque
Better suspension - But now needs a refresh
CL - god I hate these things

G80

I was recently in the market mainly for a .1. I lost an auction narrowly (should have bid more!) and immediately regretted not bidding more. I ended up searching up and down the internet and ended up in a .2.

To me there doesn’t seem to be a huge amount of difference but good examples are thin on the ground and when you find one, you may have competition to buy it.

I would search for both and keep an open mind. When the right car comes up, be ready to jump on it!