Recently, my husband had the chance to test drive the 911 GT3 (997 model). He described it as,

A car where the driver’s inputs clearly and immediately affect the vehicle’s behavior (output). This is where the analog joy of driving lies, and mastering it is what makes the car “fun.”

He said it’s not an easy-to-drive car like the modern 911s, which anyone can handle well; rather, it’s a car that requires skill to truly master.

How deep and profound it is.

Meanwhile, we received a candid impression from the owner of this GT3, Mr. T, about why he purchased this GT3 and how he feels after actually driving it. With his permission, I’d like to share it here today.

Impressions of the 911 GT3 (997 model)

From S2000 to 911 GT3

Regarding my cars, I started with an Integra, enjoying mountain passes and mini circuits. After some practice with a rear-wheel-drive Silvia (which was also a fun car), I got an S2000 and have been driving it for about 15 years.

One day, a senior colleague bought a Ferrari 360 Spider, and I got to ride shotgun. I didn’t have high expectations, but when I experienced full acceleration, all my previous impressions were completely overturned.

Since then, I admired Ferrari, but after test driving one at a dealer, I realized it wasn’t quite my style, so I started considering Porsche next.

However, since I wanted a car that could seat four family members, I was also looking at the Panamera. Then one day, the same senior called me saying, “I’m about to sell my GT3. Interested?”

“A 911, huh… I’m not that interested, and I think the rear seats have a roll cage so it can’t really fit four people. But since it’s a rare chance, I’ll give it a try!” I thought, and when I drove it…

What the heck! I want it!

And so, instead of buying a four-seater, I ended up adding another two-seater to the garage.

Options / Specifications

This 911 GT3 was set up by my senior for running at Suzuka Circuit. The brakes were changed from PCCB to steel brakes, the stock clutch—which was reportedly very heavy—was replaced with an aftermarket twin-plate clutch plus a lightweight flywheel, and one catalytic converter was removed.

The suspension was returned to stock to avoid scraping the bottom, and an alignment was done. The tires are Neovas.

Impressions after owning and driving

Since I haven’t driven other Caymans or 911s, my long-time S2000 serves as my baseline.

Regarding the engine, probably due to the clutch change, I have to be careful when starting off. If I’m not paying attention, it stalls (laughs). But once you step on it, power floods out, the revs climb sharply, and you hit the redline in no time.

You really have to watch out for over-revving.

As for the suspension, I find the everyday ride quality very comfortable. The body rigidity is impressive—this is what a stiff chassis feels like. The suspension works well, so although bumps can be tough, cruising on the highway is very pleasant.

Even when driving at Suzuka, I’m still intimidated by the high speeds and haven’t yet found the limits. So while it might be possible to use it daily, somewhere inside I hear voices saying, “Is this slow speed really enough? Step on it more! Can you even handle it?” (laughs)

There’s somehow a scent of blood, or a hint of madness… It feels like entering a zone where reason fades away.

In the end, I usually drive the S2000, use the NX when taking the family, and occasionally take the Porsche out for drives and circuit runs.

A word to readers

As the dealer lady also said, Porsche is truly a car you won’t understand until you actually drive it. It might have the image of a luxury car for celebrities (my wife thought so too), but underneath it’s a sports car with a strong racing spirit. If you love driving, please try a test drive!

You won’t understand Porsche until you drive it

As he wrote at the end, “You really don’t understand Porsche until you drive it,” and I completely agree. Moreover, you can’t fully appreciate it from the passenger seat—you have to drive it yourself to truly feel its value and be moved by it.

My husband often says, “Porsche isn’t a luxury car, it’s a high-performance car.” For those who love driving and speed, I hope you’ll take a Porsche for a test drive at least once.

Mr. T, thank you very much for letting us test drive your car and for sharing your impressions!