robmypro

I am wondering how much horsepower I can expect to lose with a GT3 vs a Turbo here in Colorado. I am thinking it could be as high as 25% on the GT3, with it being negligible on the Turbo, but figured I would ask the experts.

Thanks for the help.

757driver

I found this, seems like it could be right.

HP Loss = (elevation x 0.03 x horsepower @ sea level)/1000

Ur20v

Turbos can work harder (i.e generate more heat as well as boost) to minimise any elevation change- on a standard car you should have zero loss depending on other factors like air temp, on a tuned turbo car it comes down to where the turbo's AR is mapped- if at the top end then they have nothing more to give so will either just generate more heat (high iATs and pull ignition timing) or over rev / surge and fall a part.

NA cars just lose power as per the equation 757driver supplied.

robmypro

Thanks guys. So buying a GT3 here means major power loss (almost 100hp less in Denver), which is a lot of power to give up. Might have to wait a few years for a Turbo GT3 to become affordable. Seems like Turbo all the way for me.

Ur20v

I would try one, noting everything is equalised accept SC cars where they do have an advantage.

The cooler moist air will off set some of the density change due just to altitude. I wouldn't expect 100hp deficit.

NAM VET

Decades ago, owning then some small engine Foreign cars, and living in Denver, with frequent trips up into the mountains, I was just amazed at how wheezy and breathless they would be at high altitudes, and then, when we would drive back down to much lower Nebraska, I just reveled in the increased power and performance of the cars. It was like driving around in a lower gear.

A GT3 will of course give up raw power at altitude, but remember, you will still be left with a lot more than most cars.

I do miss the back country sights and scenes and roads of Colorado. Almost moved long ago to Montrose or Durango.

Enjoy whatever you drive,

all the best....

robmypro

Thanks guys. I drove a GT3 and 997 Turbo a few months ago, and definitely noticed a big power difference in the cars. I wasn't really thinking about the altitude impact on them, but the Turbo was much quicker, and now I know why. No idea if it was 100hp or not, but the Turbo pulled a lot harder, which I guess it should regardless.

Love Colorado roads. Driving nirvana. A Turbo GT3 would be amazing.

deutschmick

My house is at 5700 ft.

Sure there is some power loss with NA cars. If I go "down the hill" they really wake up.

I find the GT3 more fun to drive than the turbo. YMMV.

robmypro

I agree 100% with you deutschmick. The GT3 is more fun. It's raw. But I love the Turbo power. Wow it is quick.

993GT

GT2...

/five

I'm at about 5150' in Wyoming and don't miss much on the GT3 driven on the back roads. I had a 930 that pulled like a champ here at elevation, but haven't driven a modern turbo for comparison. I don't think you'll miss anything with the GT3 and as others have said it's a wonderful car!

2root4u

Funny you mention this -- I'm considering a move to Colorado and this is one item that I've noted as a negative along with less access to tracks.

robmypro

Actually where I am a GT3 would be ideal. We have so many great driving roads, and some good tracks. Also a lot less traffic than say California, and I am only 2 hours from Pikes Peak. Tons of great driving out here.

robmypro

Btw, i am in the market for a GT3 mainly for the great driving here. Not going to daily drive it, and will do some occasional tracking.

Anyone have a nice 2015 GT3 at close to MSRP?

2root4u

Any good tracks out there?