bweSteve

I drove both back when I was shopping (2017-2018),... and the 997.2 GT3 was a hands-down clear winner for me at the time, & so bought one.
I was coming from 16 yrs ownership & driving of our 964 Turbo.

Now, 3 yrs later & I have a couple friends who have let me drive their GT4's. I am soooo glad I bought the 997.2 GT3. I am totally biased.

noro78

GT4 is 1 digit off from perfection

Raghu

Hi OP,

I have a 2011 7.2 RS and a 718 Spyder (MT). I used to own a 2016 GT4 a few years back. The .2 RS is a fantastic analog driver's car. Everything about it involves the driver and the more one drives it the more it becomes part of you. The 2016 GT4 was a fantastic mid-engine car. It felt lighter, steering was less involving and it seemed a tad low on power for spirited street driving. I never tracked any of my cars. The Spyder is quite different. Although, being open air, it has a different feel to it, it is faster than my old GT4 used to be. The suspension is fabulous for street driving and gearing is amazing for the street as well. You can tell that it is a modern car, steering is effortless yet giving adequate feedback.
Having said that, the RS and the Spyder are quite different cars. The only similarity between them is they have standard transmission. I would drive either one of them any given day as they are so different. The Spyder is easier to drive in traffic because the clutch and gear are smoother and effortless in comparison to the RS.
I don't have any experience with the 2008 GT3 but I should imagine it is totally analog like the 7.2 RS. I would go for the GT3 if I had to make a decision between it and the GT4, especially if it is mainly for fun driving. If this car is going to be his DD, then the GT4 might be the better option.
Anyhow, wish him all the best on the decision. He can't go wrong with either one of these beautiful cars.

Best,

Liquid911

I've owned an '08 RS for a while and just bought a GT4 to be used primarily as a track car. My thought process was the newer platform makes sense for the track as it will be more reliable, has a warranty so running costs should be lower. For the street the 997 is just more special, more visceral and given how durable they are (the engine is straight off a cup car) should last for ever cosidering that they can never be stressed beyond their design brief on the street.

f50nut

I own both and will echo the sentiments above. You cannot go wrong with either car. They are both fantastic, best in class in their respective categories. That said, I agree they are not similar and both should be driven before you decide.

GT4
Best shifter in any car I've driven period – this is important. Surprisingly effortless handling. Confidence inspiring is an understatement. It's a very, very capable car and the tradeoff for that is some driving feel. Unless you're breaking the law, it isn't the most exciting around town. I wouldn't describe it as inert. Has the best electric steering you'll find. 981 with the exhaust valves open sounds great. The engine is 8 out of 10. No, it's not a Mezger. I don't think that matters much when you're actually in the seat, driving the car. Go for the highest spec with buckets and PCCBs and take advantage of how light this car feels. If you've driven a lot of modern cars, you'll agree that the GT4 still delivers on feel in a way that many modern cars can't. It turns a lot of heads.

GT3
Much more challenging to drive. Has a ton of quirky characteristics which I'm sure you've read about. It's a modern 911 with its engine in the traditional 911 location. Not like the 991 at all. The Mezger is loud, choppy and rough, especially when cold. It really comes alive at full temp and high in the rev range. You need to learn this car in a way the GT4 does not demand of its driver. Doesn't feel quite as light as the GT4 to me. A long spirited drive will tire you out, but when you're done, you'll constantly look forward to the next drive. I can't say the GT4 has that staying power.

GT4 is the better all around daily driver. If you want a 911, this won't scratch that itch and you will always want a 911. If you're not dead set on a 911, get a GT4.

If you want a 911, GT3 is the drug of choice. I like Raghu's solution. Keep the GT3 and swap the GT4 out for a 718 Spyder.

pissedpuppy

^^^^ good and accurate assessment ^^^^

however, I woudl not agree with the statement of the GT4 being a better all around driver...

I could be biased, as I've been driving 997 GT3s for ~10 years now - I used to them, but I did own a GT4, albeit briefly, as I did not get as much enjoyment

f50nut

Edited my post. I meant to say daily driver*, not driver car. I think the GT4 is a better daily driver. The GT3 is a better driver's car.