I finally got tired of listening to all of the rumors and excuses for why the cars are sitting in port. So I called an executive at PCNA today and asked them point blank to tell me what's going on. They were very forthcoming but asked me to keep the details confidential.

Here's what I can say. The EPA found something in the controller software that they don't like. Essentially the software supplier enabled a feature that Porsche isn't authorized for and doesn't need. The feature is used by other Euro manufacturer's who use the same controller on their diesel and V-10/V-12 cars. Porsche is awaiting new software from their supplier but this has been delayed due to vacation time in Europe. Once the new software is available, EPA has to put it through another complete certification process to make sure nothing else has changed. PCNA's best guess is the cars will ship in early August but they will know more next week and those with cars on the way should be hearing specifics from your dealers then.

The software problem will not effect engine performance at all and has nothing to do with emissions levels. So no worries about diminished performance or rough idle.

This doesn't make the waiting easier but at least we know why we are waiting.

Karl

 

Thanks Karl,

I appreciate the effort you've placed in this - to find out what is really going on.

At least we have a better idea.

 

Or maybe I just called them to keep anyone from running their new GT3 in a Time Trial.

By the way, would a new GT3 be in the same class as a 996TT for PCA time trials or club racing?

 

Actually the 1999 GT3 was classified to run in C Stock along with the regular 996. I don't think PCA has ruled on where the 2004 car will run, but given it's better power to weight ratio, superior brakes, etc. it could end up in B stock with the 996TT.

Karl

 

I have heard as recent as today from a contact that I have at PCNA, who happens to be at the Factory right now. He tells me he has seen "many GT-3s being produced". Good news!

 

I was at the factory May 20th and about ever 10th car on the line was a GT3. That's about 15 cars per day at the normal factory rate of 150 cars per day.

 

I was at dealer today .... My GT3 just arrived in baltimore on July 8..... Normally It would take about a week to get the car from the port but I guess that not going to happen is it?????????????

 

Nope, sorry. According to PCNA, it will be early August before the cars are released from PDI - at the earliest.

Karl

 

Karl,

Maybe you should cancel the order and go for the GT3RS.

 

At least some of you have them on the way. My dealer thought he would get 3 or 4 allotments for the GT3 and I was number 3 on his list, turns out he is only getting 2. He thinks he will still be able to find me one at some point but I would feel better for a sure thing.

 

Bill,

No GT3 RS for the US.

64lusso,

Call around to other dealers. There are slots open for next year deliveries. Try some of the smaller dealers outside the major metro areas.

Karl

 

the reply from PCNA sounds correct from what I have heard. I have one in the port and one on the way. I guess the waiting game will be even more painful! August???!!! ugh!

 

Karl is right, I didn't try very hard, called a few friends and and few numbers that were posted here previosly and managed to scare up at least five 04 slots for Gt3's all but one at MSRP. I was also able to find a pretty loaded example that is at the port now with the group waiting to be released that is available for some amount over MSRP in case anyone needs to have one soon. So they are out there, thanks for everyone's help.
Jay

 

64lusso,
hamman has a sept/oct 03 for window. Pm him.

Karl,
my car finished 6/26/3, when do you think i'll see it? late sept? thanks

 

Watt, can still see the yellow shadow on the back wall!