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Hi
I have a 2015 991.1 GTS that I'm reasonably happy with (purchased in 2016, slightly used). I use it sparingly on weekends and occasional track days - life seems to get in the way. I am considering trading it in for a 2018 GT3. I have two teenage kids that really don't fit in the back of the GTS (comfortably) anymore anyway. I don't really track very often, although I'd like to. I think the main factor here is my DD is a 503 HP mini-SUV, so when I get in the GTS it's not as exciting.
Yep, you're crazy just like the rest of us who love these cars. Thing is, obviously the GTS does its job well and is a very nice car. Nevertheless, I think you and your teenage kids will appreciate the change.
I guess I'm telling you... although checking to see if I get any "WTF is wrong with you; stick with the GTS" responses. Not truly expecting them though.
As many on this forum know, I have both. My GTS is a cab and PDK. My GT3 is a Touring. Like others have said in this and other threads, the GT3 is in a different league but I would suggest test driving it before you buy it. It is a jarringly different driving experience compared to the GTS which feels like a Lexus after spending time driving the GT3.
As many on this forum know, I have both. My GTS is a cab and PDK. My GT3 is a Touring. Like others have said in this and other threads, the GT3 is in a different league but I would suggest test driving it before you buy it. It is a jarringly different driving experience compared to the GTS which feels like a Lexus after spending time driving the GT3.
The one I'm looking at is roughly 2 hours away, so the test drive will be a commitment. Is it mostly a stiffness and HP difference that makes it jarringly different ? How do you determine which one you take out ? Is the Touring THAT much more uncomfortable ? (thanks for the advice btw)
i had a 16 gts and then a 18 gts
traded to 18 gt3 pdk and i did not find a big difference in ride quality.
power from 16 will be great but not much in it from 18gts to gt3 power wise
It is funny that this is all about perspective. When I bought the GT3 (991.1) my other car was a highly modified Wrangler (2005). I thought the GT3 was a Lexus compared to that, it was quiet and road wonderfully. I then went and purchased a Macan GTS... the GT3 now actually feels raw albeit in the right way.
Anyway, I suspect your 911 GTS to GT3 comparison will end up feeling similar. Or just drive an old beat up Wrangler before you try it and you might find it luxurious
I also think there is inherent psychological factors involved too. For example, simply driving around in a bright yellow winged GT3 is a different experience. Then you factor in the engine noise and handling. If you get it equipped with the buckets seats that adds to the experience as well. Porsche makes so many quality cars, however, it can be argued the GT variants take the tradition to another level. I also believe these cars are surprisingly quick. I'm not talking about track times, of course that's part of it, but more so when you get into it and it reaches the upper RPM ranges it pulls hard and doesn't let up. To each their own, I don't believe you will drive the car and say you wish it had more. Rather, you'll constantly be in search of open roads, curves, and tracks where you can really see what the car can do.
Do yourself a favor and see if you can drive a GT3 if not go to the Porsche experience center and compare the GT3 to the Turbo.
These guys on here are half nuts they drive cars that beat them to death and convince themselves that its great. They maybe go to the track 1 to 2 times a year but mostly drive on weekends if lucky in Canyons or mountain roads. The perfect Porsche for this is the Turbo or Turbos S. It will comfy and perform better then a GT3 or GT3RS off the track. Mainly because its more usable in every day life.
I also own a ridiculous SUV with 510HP and the 991 Turbo is a blast to still drive while my 2 RS sit in the garage
The best thing is for you to experience them for yourself.
I suppose I could be lumped into the half nuts crowd and I’m okay with that. For me, if looking to only have one weekend fun car, IMHO, the GT3 would be the choice. Obviously what’s shared here is simply one’s perspective and opinion. A person can take any 911 in the lineup and have fun. But, each offers a unique driving experience. No doubt the 991 turbo is a robust platform. And to your point, it can be argued is more usable for everyday life. But, is not the GT3 buyer looking for a different experience.
While not the 991, I drove this turbo for six years. I prefer the 997 styling on the turbo compared to the new one. Great car, best understated sports car I owned. I could take it anywhere without trouble. For me it’s apples and oranges to attempt to compare the GT3 and turbo because they are so different. As fun as that turbo was, it doesn’t come close to my experience in the RS. And I would argue the GT3 is the same.
The one I'm looking at is roughly 2 hours away, so the test drive will be a commitment. Is it mostly a stiffness and HP difference that makes it jarringly different ? How do you determine which one you take out ? Is the Touring THAT much more uncomfortable ? (thanks for the advice btw)
The GTS is my daily driver. It's the perfect daily for So Cal and I do prefer PDK over manual for gridlock traffic. The GT3 is my weekend fun car and "touring" car. I have driven it 5,000 miles over 4 road trips. It is just an epic car on the highway and on the back roads.
Everything about the GT3 is to 11. The GTS is a great car, but the GT3 is the GTS on some serious 'roids. The steering is far crisper. The RAS makes the car turn on a dime and helps with handling of the car at speed. The chassis is firm but not too firm for just tooting around town in normal mode. The car is much louder on the interior compared to the GTS. And the engine is leagues ahead of the 3.8 in the GTS (which I think is a great engine, by the way). The GTS is easier to enjoy at low speeds. The GT3 needs to be pushed to be enjoyed. At 15-30 mph, driving the GT3 is a chore to me (being a Touring, it is a six speed manual).
I took a PDK GT3 out at PECLA before I took the GT3 plunge. I am glad that I did. I wasn't sure if I needed all of that car (I don't) as I was going to keep my GTS. But in hindsight, I am so glad that I took the plunge. It is such an epic driving experience (in MT or PDK) that you really have to experience it to understand. I would highly suggest taking a trip to not only see the car in person but to take it for a spin. You may find that the GT3 is not to your liking. It is not for everyone. The GTS can be totally docile. The GT3 is never docile. It is a caged beast that wants to be unleashed, from the minute you turn on the ignition. When you put the key in the ignition and fire that baby up, you will understand what I mean. Good luck with your decision!