I feel your dilemma. A good problem to have in life, you are very blessed. Here is my opinion for what its worth. I looked at the 997 GTS, 991 S, 991 GTS, and 997 GT3 before making the commitment to the most exciting and least practical Porsche of the bunch. I'm not yet a parent, but as a recent 997.2 GT3 owner, and spouse of a pregnant wife, why can't you put your son in the front passenger seat of the the GT3? They make car seats for it I believe if he is too small for the airbag. The wife just complains about the rough ride and driving too fast, so best to leave her at home anyway! Having owned my GT3 for just over a month, I can't imagine having gone the 991 C2S route. (I admittedly did consider it for a while though) It has been said many times before, but this car is truly something special beyond what a Carrera could ever be. Hydraulic steering, Mezger motor, manual transmission. Every drive in it is an event. Good luck!

 

Thank you for the insight. I think I would be happier with the GT3 I just need to find a way to put my son in safely. He does not ride with me everywhere by any means and the car is not going to be a daily driver. I have seen one or two guys with GT3's add rear seats as the safety latches are still there from what I hear.

I wil continue to weigh out both cars over the weekend Cant wait to become a P-car owner.

 

I have owned both and I loved both of them. That said, they are very different and you should do an extended drive in both. One very valid point you make is the warranty on the 991S.

 

Well said. Get the GT3 and don't look back.

OP might consider a recaro booster. I took this photo from one of our PCA meetings.

RECARO Performance BOOSTER - $119.99 free shipping
http://www.rightstart.com/recaro-per...FYE9gQod-JwPPQ
* no affiliation

 

It's unclear if front seat booster is allowed.

Porsche makes their own branded ones that go on the front. You can find on the website. But then if you research properly fitted car seats it says to never do this. I am not sure if that is federal or state or whatever.

I too wondered as I would like to give my 4yr old a ride.

 

Thanks for the input and the link. I have seen several people in both the porsche and NSX community do this to transport the kiddos. I need to look in to the legality's of it as I'm unclear if it actually legal to do.

It looks like at this point I will be putting a black 2007 GT3 with 26k miles in the garage. As soon as I seal the deal I will post pictures and thoughts. Thanks for all the input and look forward to getting to know the Rennlist community.

Blaine

 

someone correct me if i'm wrong, but if the car came from the manufacturer with just two front seats, you can put a child seat in the front seat of the car or pick-up truck. if the car comes with rear seats then you are then required to put your child in the rear seats. putting rear seats into the GT3 can be and has been done but I'm not sure if it's legal and how insurance would cover you.

I've put my 3 year old in the front of my GT3 a few times and he's fine with it. the negative of child in front seat is the sun gets in their eyes very easily and i find him kicking my dash here and there. also the airbag turns off since he doesn't weigh enough.

 

Well it looks like I decided to go with the 2007 GT3. I should have it in the next week or so and will post up some pictures. Thanks again for all the replies!!

Blaine

 

Yes! congrats.

 

991 S is a great all around modern daily useable sports car

997 gt3 is simply one of the greatest porsches ever... it is very very exciting to drive but it requires more sacrifices

enjoy your 7gt3... it's not easy but it is special

if u plan to track it u shd pin the coolant lines... for your benefit as well as others on track

 

Thanks a lot and can't wait to learn a true rear engine platform. The last car I did some track events in was a 1994 NSX. I don't plan to track this car but just enjoy it for what it is and appreciate one of Porsches last pure drivers car.

I also want to look into joining the local PCA club to meet some new faces. I'm sure there is one in the south Texas area.

The previous owner has the coolant lines pinned ; )

thanks again

 

GT3 model you are buying is a beast even as a street car if you learn to drive it more agressively, but pretty docile if driven like any other MT car (with 400+ high revving engine) except with probably a stiffer clutch and suspension than you ever experienced.
Enjoy and welcome to the Porche and GT3 community.

 

Drive them both.

Purchase the one that speaks to you most. The answer truly is that simple.

I chose the GT3 for that Reason.

 

I say it depends on the driving you are going to do .More street, travel ,commuter driving .Than 991s
More track fun stuff.Yes you can still travel in a GT3.Than GT3
My 02
either one is a winner

 

Congrats on the new GT3, it will surely bring a ton of smile to you and your son's face!