Chris Harris Review
#227
Rennlist Member
This is the rub, for me at least. Porsche stubbornly sticks to the line. And while power:weight/dollar follows a linear plot, suspension sophistication and capability is comparitively skewed.
#228
I'm not a colllector, thought RS was about driving, don't give a **** about what collectors want, really don't.
#229
Rennlist Member
This is an interesting comparison... On one hand you have a completely pure unadulterated precise mechanical machine with slightly older technology, and on the other you have the practical modern day interpretation of it. The Cayman will undoubtedly be significantly faster, more drivable, and more comfortable, but I'm sure the 996 GT3 will still have that 'special something'. While this dilemma is pretty common in choosing a new car vs a classic (new tech vs old panache) what is interesting to me is how relatively modern the 996 is, yet already has significant appeal as a classic.
I am not much concerned about lap times. My concern with the GT4 was that it may not be as raw and visceral on the backroads and as fun on the track as my 6gt3. I am also not at all sure that the GT4 would be worth the $20-30k premium were I to make the switch.
I used to be a mid-engine Porsche fanatic up until a few years ago before I sold my 987 Boxster S. But then I switched to the 6gt3 and have learned to appreciate the rear-engine dynamics. My 6gt3 is also nicely set up (Motons, arms, monoballs, etc.) and I have yet to drive another car that is more fun on the track. Maybe the GT4 will be more fun, maybe not -- it sure looks good on paper and on the pics. We'll see.
#230
Rennlist Member
I think 996/997 GT3 is a proper comparison for the GT4 both in intended use and price point. In the case of the 6gt3 both the power and the weight are fairly close, too.
I am not much concerned about lap times. My concern with the GT4 was that it may not be as raw and visceral on the backroads and as fun on the track as my 6gt3. I am also not at all sure that the GT4 would be worth the $20-30k premium were I to make the switch.
I used to be a mid-engine Porsche fanatic up until a few years ago before I sold my 987 Boxster S. But then I switched to the 6gt3 and have learned to appreciate the rear-engine dynamics. My 6gt3 is also nicely set up (Motons, arms, monoballs, etc.) and I have yet to drive another car that is more fun on the track. Maybe the GT4 will be more fun, maybe not -- it sure looks good on paper and on the pics. We'll see.
I am not much concerned about lap times. My concern with the GT4 was that it may not be as raw and visceral on the backroads and as fun on the track as my 6gt3. I am also not at all sure that the GT4 would be worth the $20-30k premium were I to make the switch.
I used to be a mid-engine Porsche fanatic up until a few years ago before I sold my 987 Boxster S. But then I switched to the 6gt3 and have learned to appreciate the rear-engine dynamics. My 6gt3 is also nicely set up (Motons, arms, monoballs, etc.) and I have yet to drive another car that is more fun on the track. Maybe the GT4 will be more fun, maybe not -- it sure looks good on paper and on the pics. We'll see.
i would say if you are hooked on the 996 rear engine feel the upgrade path is along more modern 911's... $$ of course another matter in doing so... cheers!
#231
The GT4 is a completely different car to a 6gt3 imo. I would imagine the 6gt3 is much more hard core and intense driving experience than the GT4. Obviously the GT4 is going to be an amazing driving experience, but compared to the 6gt3 I don't see it being nearly as engaging. The same goes with the 991GT3 vs the 996GT3, I don't think the newer cars can't compete with the level of engagement and experience.
#233
Banned
After reading the article it seems to me that the handling of the Gt4 is where it shines most. Harris has put the strait line performance right above a standard Carrera. Which to me fits in with its price point. A spectacular car for sure. I can't wait to drive one.
#234
Burning Brakes
Straight line will be ahead of C2, C2S, and equal to GTS. Car and driver estimated 3.8s 0-60. Even Porsche concedes it's faster than C2S.
#235
Burning Brakes
That's awesome! Porsche always sells Cayman's short on its acceleration. Magazine reviews consistently time Caymans faster than Porsche's claim times.
#237
Rennlist Member
The GT4 is a completely different car to a 6gt3 imo. I would imagine the 6gt3 is much more hard core and intense driving experience than the GT4. Obviously the GT4 is going to be an amazing driving experience, but compared to the 6gt3 I don't see it being nearly as engaging. The same goes with the 991GT3 vs the 996GT3, I don't think the newer cars can't compete with the level of engagement and experience.
From test driving caymans and 996 GT3s and watching
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NTv1iNB9gJ
I can say that I'd much rather have a 996 GT3 than a 981 GTS
However, the GT4 is a different beast than the GTS and the feel should be much better.
996 GT3 +:
hydraulic steering
more interesting engine
cheaper
911 feel (I drive a 930 and like an engine in the rear)
GT4 +:
more stable
better aero
higher handling limits
new
probably some amount faster in a straight line and definitely faster lap times
#238
I think 996/997 GT3 is a proper comparison for the GT4 both in intended use and price point. In the case of the 6gt3 both the power and the weight are fairly close, too.
I am not much concerned about lap times. My concern with the GT4 was that it may not be as raw and visceral on the backroads and as fun on the track as my 6gt3. I am also not at all sure that the GT4 would be worth the $20-30k premium were I to make the switch.
I used to be a mid-engine Porsche fanatic up until a few years ago before I sold my 987 Boxster S. But then I switched to the 6gt3 and have learned to appreciate the rear-engine dynamics. My 6gt3 is also nicely set up (Motons, arms, monoballs, etc.) and I have yet to drive another car that is more fun on the track. Maybe the GT4 will be more fun, maybe not -- it sure looks good on paper and on the pics. We'll see.
I am not much concerned about lap times. My concern with the GT4 was that it may not be as raw and visceral on the backroads and as fun on the track as my 6gt3. I am also not at all sure that the GT4 would be worth the $20-30k premium were I to make the switch.
I used to be a mid-engine Porsche fanatic up until a few years ago before I sold my 987 Boxster S. But then I switched to the 6gt3 and have learned to appreciate the rear-engine dynamics. My 6gt3 is also nicely set up (Motons, arms, monoballs, etc.) and I have yet to drive another car that is more fun on the track. Maybe the GT4 will be more fun, maybe not -- it sure looks good on paper and on the pics. We'll see.
#239
Rennlist Member
think you have to ask yourself if you are a purist and if you care about having a newer faster toy. I wouldn't sell the 996 just to get the GT4. but if you care about having a more modern experience, then that says it all. If i had a nice 996, I would only considering adding not selling. But there is something to be said for having brand new wheels. tough one.