Bob Rouleau

There is no reason to avoid a GT3 as a first Porsche. The car is not evil in any way. It is extremely capable (far more than an M3) but that doesn't make it dangerous if the driver recognizes the performance potential of the car. You did get the right message. Join PCA, go to DE and learn how to drive a high performance car, and especially a 911. Many instructors own GT3's and are happy to teach anyone how to exploit the performance safely.

Best,

Boulder GT3

I couldn't agree more. I think the myth or legend that has grown around the GT3 being a hard car to drive is overblown. The feedback is so exceptional it's easy to know where the car is and what's going on. I even think the discussions of the heavy rear end coming around if you let off are a little overstated. Every car I've driven with a high output motor and a tight LSD needs a good understanding of what happens when you let off the throttle.

It's a great first 911. Lucky you. I've tracked an M3 alot and stock to stock it will make the M3 seem like a snowplow.

MJSpeed

The only bad idea is passing up on the opportunity of acquiring one! Once you get it you'll laugh at your question...

Flying Finn

Heh, ditto that, i.e, short wheelbase 911s are one of those "don't try this at home" type of cars for many drivers!

stuka

That is all you need. Plenty of DE and be careful of the car in the beginning until you are comfortable with its dynamic.

Outside of DE, some car control classes are a must. You MUST know and be comfortable with losing the back end and getting it back inline without panic and in a controlled manner.

Good luck with the GT3.

Wachuko

Of the new cars I think the GT3 is the only car to buy if you do not need the rear seats... I have been reading the reviews on the 997 GT3 and it looks to be an amazing car. In the looks department is far ahead of the new TT. I think the other car to beat it in looks and feel would be the GT3 RS. There were a few photos in the latest Excellence magazine...

I say go for it!

frayed

After driving an E36 M3 for years, going through the routine of mods, tracking the hell out of it. I came to a crossroads. Do the same with the bloated E46 M3 or buy a Porsche? I bought a Porsche.

But, didn't dare a GT3. Too skeeery.

Bought the most benign of the beasts. A C4S. Lasted six months. Hated the heavy feel and AWD. Loathed it. Not fun.

Sold it and bought a C2. Loved it, but didn't have the linear, tractable feel and tightened suspension I was used to. Mind you, I kept my modded M3.

Bought a GT3. Loved it. Perfect car except for its less than ideal street manners. Bumpsteer, too much valving resulting in skittishness in real world conditions, though on the racetrack it was very predictable and tractable.

Bought a 997S. Rocking car. Will more than satisfy 99% of the enthusiasts out there.

Problem is, the 997 GT3 is about to be available. Buy the GT3.