997.1 GT3 replacement that is fun, but affordable?
08-29-2018, 06:23 PM
#1
Instructor
Thread Starter
Join Date: Jan 2014
Posts: 153
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
997.1 GT3 replacement that is fun, but affordable?
Hi guys,
I’ve finally come to the realization that with 2 kids at private universities that I need cut back on my automotive endeavors for now.
What do you think would be a fun replacement to the GT3, but less expensive to maintain and repairs when needed? I’d also like something I can affordably modify. My car is stock, but I’d love a SW 3.9, motons and etc, but way above my personal budget. I’ve always wanted to track my car, but the running costs changed my mind.
I drive my car about 1500 miles a year, but due to minimal depreciation the thought of selling was not a concern.
I am open to all makes, but do want something that holds it value well. Any recommendations? I was thinking possibly an NSX, 987.2 CS, c6 z06 or gt350.
Thanks
I’ve finally come to the realization that with 2 kids at private universities that I need cut back on my automotive endeavors for now.
What do you think would be a fun replacement to the GT3, but less expensive to maintain and repairs when needed? I’d also like something I can affordably modify. My car is stock, but I’d love a SW 3.9, motons and etc, but way above my personal budget. I’ve always wanted to track my car, but the running costs changed my mind.
I drive my car about 1500 miles a year, but due to minimal depreciation the thought of selling was not a concern.
I am open to all makes, but do want something that holds it value well. Any recommendations? I was thinking possibly an NSX, 987.2 CS, c6 z06 or gt350.
Thanks
Last edited by Jlopez55; 08-29-2018 at 06:44 PM.
08-29-2018, 07:39 PM
#2
TBH for driving feel S2000 has been the closest that I have personally owned. The above cars you listed such as Corvette or Mustang do not have the same feeling. NSX is a great drivers car, but it lacks power compared to S2000 (which doesn't say much since it only has 240hp) But for a great budget car I would look into a S2000 Club Racer. Again all my personal opinion. 987.2 is also a great option that you listed
08-29-2018, 07:54 PM
#3
Burning Brakes
i really liked driving the Mitsubishi Evo 8 i bought back in 2005 and would actually like to have one again.
finding one that hasn't been modded or beaten to hell is likely a challenge though. likewise for Subaru STI.
but since you also mentioned "can affordably modify", both tick that box.
speaking of Subie, the BRZ seems to get a lot of praise for a fun, sporty car.
finding one that hasn't been modded or beaten to hell is likely a challenge though. likewise for Subaru STI.
but since you also mentioned "can affordably modify", both tick that box.
speaking of Subie, the BRZ seems to get a lot of praise for a fun, sporty car.
08-29-2018, 08:11 PM
#4
Another vote for the S2000! They're cheap while still feeling special, super reliable, and have the same philosophy as NA GT cars. They're such good fun. I still look forward to driving mine no matter what car I just hopped out of.
Last edited by MatthiasAK; 08-29-2018 at 11:21 PM.
08-29-2018, 09:44 PM
#5
Three Wheelin'
S2000, also Evo IX if you are a power kind of guy
Trending Topics
08-29-2018, 10:47 PM
#8
I drove my son's GTI today since he's now up at college. It's a 115,000 mile GTI and it's a hoot to drive. So.... check out the Golf R in the classifieds, as it has more power than the GTI and very capable at the track.
Or.... Cayman S / Cayman R. So much fun in a very light package and exceptional on the track.
Or.... Cayman S / Cayman R. So much fun in a very light package and exceptional on the track.
08-29-2018, 11:12 PM
#10
Burning Brakes
I would say E46 M3 also. Or gt350.
08-29-2018, 11:59 PM
#12
Rennlist Member
You sound like a good father. The good news is, there are some great options out there. S2000 is definitely one. But...
I'd look down one of two roads:
pete
I'd look down one of two roads:
- 987.2 Boxster Spyder, or any 987.2 Boxster S with the full Spyder suspension. You may miss the Mezger, but you will be thrilled by the handling and overall fun. Vs an S2000? As much as I like those, I'd take the 987.2 every time.
- Fiat Abarth 500. Don't laugh (like I did). Do go drive one (like I did, after a friend—who sold his 997.1 GT3—as well as the boys at Sharkwerks raved about them). For mods, Google "Abarth Assetto Corse." I replaced our Abarth with a GT4...and ended up missing the Abarth as a daily. My better half and I bought it as a knockaround car to share, then fought over the keys. It ain't perfect, but it was FAR more fun and more alive than the Mk5 and Mk6 GTI 6MTs we had as dailies before that. Was also reliable over two years and 18,000 miles, and the friend who bought it has had no issues in the three years since then.
pete
08-30-2018, 08:15 AM
#14
Racer
Tony kart. Ideally a shifter kart. Waaay cheaper than a gt3. Quicker. Harder to truly drive fast- will elevate your skills. Cheap tires. Will hardly use brakes. Nothing else as nimble or responsive. Strong resale. Boatload of smiles. Can take to the track in the back of an SUV
08-30-2018, 09:40 AM
#15
Haven't you heard? Porsche..."There Is No Substitute." Sorry, could not resist.
BMW 1, 2 or 3...pick your favorite. M versions if you don't mind paying up. Or, buy standard version and modify - lots of options there. Also, BMW CCA has DE / track events similar to PCA should you decide to try.
GT350R is a bargain and makes great sounds. Focus RS or Golf R32 if you like AWD flexibility. 996s are cheap and leave $ leftover for mods.
BMW 1, 2 or 3...pick your favorite. M versions if you don't mind paying up. Or, buy standard version and modify - lots of options there. Also, BMW CCA has DE / track events similar to PCA should you decide to try.
GT350R is a bargain and makes great sounds. Focus RS or Golf R32 if you like AWD flexibility. 996s are cheap and leave $ leftover for mods.