I began looking at Porsches a month or so back. I have been driving an E46 M3 since 2001 (actually two different E46 M3's). I have posted several questions on these forums, and many of you have been kind enough to offer advice from your experience. I started out thinking about a new Cayman S, then began favoring a 2005 997S and, most recently, a 996 GT3; have driven them all. After a lot of thought, I have returned to favoring a used 997S. As great as the GT3 would be on the track, I'm not sure it would suit me as well for the other 95% of my driving. Along with the M3, I owned and tracked a C5 ZO6 a couple of seasons, so I felt I should put the new C6 ZO6 on my list also, so I test drove one today.

No real surprises. The C6 ZO6 has a ton of power. I expect, if both cars were driven back-to-back by a very good driver, the ZO6 would be faster around any road course. I also suspect, the average driver (like me), would be as quick around any but the most open tracks, in the 997S. I am sure I would enjoy it more, and that's really what it's all about, for me anyway. The ZO6 moves around a lot more in transition, and neither the steering nor brakes inspire the same confidence, or allow the same level of precision application as the 997S. Once one learns the Vette's feel and limits (which are very high), I'm sure it is an incredibly fast car. But, whatever it is that the Porsche offers, it is lacking in the ZO6. That's not a very technical analysis, but it seems more about feel that measurement, if that makes any sense. Anyway, I am continuing the process of selling my M3, and hope to be among the 911 folks before long.

 

Good luck in your quest. I had an 03 M3 (it was stolen) and also had a C5 Z06 that I sold to buy my 996 C4S.

 

Oh goodie, another Vette vs 911 thread!
Nothing like one of those to wake up this sleepy forum. (yawwwwn!)

It's been a while since we've had one.

 

I've driven C6 Zo6s on track and I agree 100% with your assessment - it's incredibly fast but does not instill confidence. I'm never quite sure what the 'Vette is going to do. When it does go I find it easy to gather up but I rather know what was going on. M3 is one of my all time favourites but I drove one just recently and felt it was, dare I say, underpowered.

bottom line...nothing feels like a 911.

 

Once one learns the Vette's feel and limits (which are very high), I'm sure it is an incredibly fast car. But, whatever it is that the Porsche offers, it is lacking in the ZO6

I agree with you in your comparison between the Z and 997S. I had the opportunity of driving both cars on the track and the C6 Z06, especcially with it's stability system turned off, gets really twichy as you approach its handling limits. The 997S on the other hand is not that difficult to drive fast especially when compared to the Z. Also, on a non-performance issue, I was really disappointed with the interior and fit and finish of the Z I drove. Granted that it costs less than the 997S but I would expect to see a better interior in a $75 K car. So for a daily driver the 997S is the clear choice IMO.

 

 

My only suggestion: Find a new 2006 Carrera S - save yourself the depreciation, the worry about how it was broken in, get a full warranty, etc. etc. You should be able to pick one up for $10-15K off at this point.

 

 

I'd be curious to know about the "feel" of the power on your C5 ZO6 compared to the GT3. Both have same hp, but the ZO6 has 50 more ft/lbs of torque. Curious about the impact of the torque difference.

Thanks.

 

I would be too, but I believe that's just a 997 with the aero kit.

The 997 GT3 has a distinctive rear bumper cover that this car clearly does not have.

Would be nice to own both!

 

Yes, it is a '07 997 S with the aero kit.

 

Jim, nice Cobalt Blue!!! ANd congrat on having both pure bred in your stable. The Corvette is nice, but it's big. The porsche is much more nimble than Z06. BTW here is a picture of my Emily

[IMG]img_5663-a[/IMG]

 

Here it is ?

 

Emily is sweet, obviously I like the color. I agree, the first impression you get switching between the two is that the Porsche is more nimble, that it feels smaller and lighter, it's easier to drive, but the Z06 has more power.

Both are really fun! I can't wait to try the 997 on the track.

 

I envy those tails!!!! Hesitating on getting aftermarket aerokit. Driveway too steep and Emily nose get scrape everytime she get out. Am looking for an estimate on upgrading the std tail to a Turbo tail.

Anycase,

BTW, loved your driveway and yard