[Porsche Owner's File #4] 911GT3 Purchase, Options and Driving Review
Published on October 17, 2018
Hello everyone. This is Mina, the administrator of "A Porsche Came to My Home". I would like to share the real voices of various Porsche owners with you! This project was born from the request of our readers, "I want to share the real voices of various Porsche owners!Porsche Owner's FileThe "997.2GT3" is a 997.2GT3. In this fourth installment, we send you a review of the purchase, options, and driving of a 997.2GT3 from "cara", a resident of Osaka, Japan.
〘Owner Information〙
Car: 997.2GT3 (MY2010)
Pen name: cara
Area of residence: Osaka
Family composition: 5 persons
Past car history: Maserati 3200GT (MY2000) → Porsche 911 Carrera S (early 997) (MY2005) → Porsche first generation Cayenne S (MY2006) → 958.2 Cayenne Turbo (MY2016) → Abarth 599 competizione (MY2014) → Ferrari 488 spider (MY2018)
A word to our readers
Porsche has always been able to deliver the three essentials of driving, turning, and stopping at an extremely high level in all of its model ranges, but the GT3 takes this to a higher level and gives the driver the pleasure of being able to control the car at will.
(1) Background leading to purchase
911 Carrera S that I happened to see at the dealership.
The first 955 Cayenne S as a fun and safe car for a family of five.(MY2006, ordered in September 2005 → delivered in April 2006)I went to the dealership to purchase a 911 Carrera S. At that time, I happened to see a 911 Carrera S for a prospective order in the store.
Until then.The no-frills, no-frills Porsche is the kind of car that race enthusiasts drive."I was not really interested in Porsche because I thought it was a good idea.
But then I saw the 911 Carrera.Plenty of options, light blue natural leather interior, and a manual transmission instead of Tiptronic.It was. I had been interested in manual transmissions since driving school, but had never owned one. I had never owned a manual transmission before, but when I saw the 911, I couldn't stop myself from saying "I want one! After discussing it with my wife, we decided to purchase a Cayenne and a 911 Carrera S at the same time.
How did you come to purchase the 911GT3?
Naturally, the 911 Carrera S was delivered earlier than the 955 Cayenne S (MY2006) that I had ordered, but as I drove the 911 with Porsche's distinctive silver exterior, I was completely captivated by the 911 Carrera.
I'm not sure I'm going to be able to get this much out ofI had never experienced a car that I could move like my own limbs in any other test drive.Later, the desire to drive further led to the purchase of the GT3.
(2) Options/Specifications
When we purchased GT3, our basic policy was to not add any options.For example, the Sport Chrono Package is just a watch mounted on the dashboard, but it does not change the response to the gas pedal at all.
Body color (exterior): Black Metallic (wife's first choice)
Interior (interior): Black (standard)
■Foldable carbon bucket seats
(Seats are now made of nonflammable material because a roll cage was selected.)
■With 5-point seat belt and on-board extinguisher
(The Street model comes in natural leather and does not include a 5-point seatbelt or on-board fire extinguisher.)
■Clear Look Tail Lamps
(3) Process of vehicle delivery
The 997 was not even available in the late model year, so we had to make a tentative reservation first.
When I informed the dealer of my intention to purchase a GT3, not even the 997 late model was available yet, so I tentatively reserved a 997.2 GT3. I think it was about a year later that I was able to place an order.
At that time, the allotment was to be digested in the order of the lineup, so the reservation was completed around the summer of the previous year without knowing what the options were. If you wanted the bare bones, your order was complete at the time of booking.Since this was my first GT3, I waited for the options to be announced and ordered it in the fall with options selected.
The car was delivered in April of the following year. Currently, I have heard that if there are too many applicants, there will be a lottery. So those who are selected by lottery have the right to order.
〘From ordering to delivery〙.
April 2008 Tentative Reservation
April 2009 Reservation
September 2009 Option selection completed
April 2010 Delivery
(4) Performance of the 911GT3 as experienced through ownership
(1) Handling
Although the car looks basically the same as a stock 911, albeit with aero, etc., when you drive it, you realize that it is a completely different vehicle.
The 997.2GT3 faithfully executes the driver's intentions, albeit with the introduction of electronic control (PSM), which was not present in the 996 generation.The safety-oriented anticipatory control found in the 911 Carrera series is at an extremely high level.
Therefore, it can literally be "steered at will," and the speed and precision of the acceleration and handling response, and the lack of play in the positive sense, cannot be compared to the 911 Carrera. To put it in extreme terms, it feels like it "turns at right angles at high speeds. Conversely, if you want a normal ride, the 911 Carrera is definitely easier.
GT3 could be a big problem if it's not done right, but I think it's safe to say that even if all safety controls are cut, they will eventually intervene in case of an emergency.
(2) Engine
The GT3 engine is completely different from the 911 Carrera series.This is a GT3-specific engine with a GT1 crankcase.The RR engine layout provided good rear grip, but downforce was needed at high speeds, so the larger rear wing was also felt.
(iii) Brake
Porsche has always been the best in braking power, but with the GT3, the level is even higher.At that time, there were still rumors of braking force problems at the beginning of the ride and in the rain, so we dared to use the PCCB.(Porsche Ceramic Carbon Brakes)was not selected, but the hat-shaped brake rotors with two-piece construction were very excellent.
A 997.1 PCCB driver also said that the two-piece hat-type brake rotors are easier to control. There is no heat sag due to the two-piece construction, and there are no problems at all even after many control runs from high speeds.
(4) Engine sound
Since it is a horizontally opposed engine, the engine sound is quite loud, whether it is a good sound or not, but it is more mature than that of Lamborghini or Ferrari.
(5) Sense of unity between man and horse
Even though it is larger than the old 911, the greatest appeal of this car is that it can be driven like a hand and foot once you get used to it because it is that size and that heavy.It's called "Jinba Ittai," and that's exactly what it is.The three key functions of running, turning, and stopping are achieved at a high level and reflect the driver's skills beautifully.
(6) Fuel consumption
I think the fuel economy is around 5-8 km/l. However, I rarely use it for city driving and have never driven it for fuel economy. However, I have never driven it on a circuit, and my main use for it is touring with friends and driving alone.
(7) Low vehicle height
The front lip spoiler is low enough to be careful at convenience stores and gas stations, but once you get used to it, it is no problem. Lifters can be attached if needed.
8) Daily use
It is possible to use the GT3 for daily use, and some people actually use it for daily use, but if it is mainly for daily use, the 911 Carrera series is definitely easier to handle.The GT3 is a car that does not allow play in many ways anyway.It is not a comfortable ride and my wife and children are unlikely to ride in it with me. If I had to choose just one car, I would choose the GT3.
(5) Options you would definitely want to add (or have added) if you were to purchase a Porsche in the future.
manual transmission
Finally, with the 991.2, the manual transmission is back, although I'm well aware that the PDK is faster and more precise at changing gears.I would not hesitate to choose a manual transmission if I were to purchase a 992 model because I want to enjoy the feeling of oneness between man and horse.
My previous 997.1 Carrera S was sometimes reluctant to put into first gear after a stop. It was the same after a while when I switched to a short stroke kit, and by that time it had become a habit to put the car in second gear and then first gear. I believe it was made by Aisin.
The GT3 transmission is completely different. It is very short, but it goes into the transmission and you can feel it sucking you in. This is one of the reasons why I can't let go of it because it is so much fun.The clutch was so easy for me that a day trip from Osaka to Ise in Mie Prefecture was no problem at all!(I know someone who has both a GT3 and a BMW M3, and he told me that the BMW clutch is lighter.)I think that is a good idea. I think that kind of weight is just right, because if it is too light, it is difficult to get the timing right.
Shifting has been easy since new with no reluctance anywhere. By the way, my wife also drove it and she did not say it was heavy, rather she said the clutch and shifting was easier than the 997.1.Is it an old saying that Porsche does not rev up the gas pedal when starting off? When starting the car, the driver does not rev up the accelerator pedal, but instead, he or she connects the clutch well and then depresses the accelerator pedal after the car starts to move.
PCCB
I think GT3 is good enough in the bare bones, but PCCB(Porsche Ceramic Carbon Brakes)is better now, so I may put it on.
roll cage
I've heard that most GT3 owners are street-oriented these days, and there's a model that I didn't expect (the 911R and GT3 touring package), but I will definitely choose a roll cage next time too.
(6) Areas of concern
The radiator for the air conditioner is smaller than that of the 911 Carrera.Air conditioning does not work well in the summer.andIn traffic jams, engine oil temperatures quickly begin to exceed 120°C (120°F).However, I think these are unavoidable.
(7) General comments
After learning about the 911 Carrera's background.
The 911 Carrera is synonymous with Porsche. Today, the 911 Carrera is available in a wide range of models, but all of them are still 2+2 with RR engine layouts and are truly versatile cars that can be used for everything from city driving to long-distance driving, sports driving, and circuit racing. Although the quirks of the RR layout still remain, even these have been gradually overcome and it is no longer a car that chooses its driver. Anyone with a driver's license can enjoy the ecstatic satisfaction and safety of the 911 Carrera, while still having enough capability for those who want the old-fashioned sharpness of driving.
About GT3
Porsche trains all its model ranges to do the same three basic things: run, turn, and stop. Moreover, they are trained at an extremely high level.
Moreover, it isThe GT3 is the one that takes it to a higher level and gives you the fun of being able to control it at will.We think that this is a good idea.
8) Extra
About 996GT3
The model range known as the RS has been gone since the 996 generation, but the 996 GT3 has appeared with a core group of fans. As you can see if you do a little research, it is a kick-ass car. This car was designed for sports driving, with as little safety equipment as possible and lightweight to capture the driver's intentions. Although the 996GT3 is now in the category of old cars, it is still very popular among some fans.
9) What is Porsche to you?
For me, Porsche is like a "family".
At this point in time, I would like to own at least one of these cars. Of course, you can drive with a strong sense of protection and peace of mind anyway, including a car that can carry your family.
With the new Cayenne, its behavior continues to evolve. It is a manufacturer's car that I would like to continue to own.
〘Manager Mina's opinion〙.
I had a chance to drive a GT3 (991.1) for the first time the other day (as a passenger) and I found it to be more comfortable than I expected and I could feel the Porsche feeling more than any Porsche I have ever driven. cara and your wife are too cool to drive a GT3 with manual transmission. Thank you for the information, cara!
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Comment ( 7 )
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Nice to meet you cara.
I commented because of my interest in the inner garage shown in the photos in the review.
I am in the process of building a garage and am considering what to do with the flooring and lighting.
I would like to use tile as the flooring material like in the showroom, but I feel that the good looks of tile would be wasted if I don't clean tire tracks and dirt/mud stains frequently in daily use, so if that is the case, I would like to use concrete, assuming it will get dirty to some extent.
From the photos, it looks like cara's tile floors are very well maintained, but do they still need to be cleaned frequently?
We would appreciate it if you could tell us about any other aspects of the project besides the choice of flooring materials, or any other aspects you wish you had done after the project was completed.
isiB.
Thank you! So the garage is under construction! That's amazing! I'm so jealous!
No more worrying about typhoons or wind and rain damaging your car, yet you get to have the space you want... lovely!
We have confirmed this with cara.
I will reply to you in the comments section. Could you please give me a few minutes so I can reply properly?" ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^.
I'm sure you can post it here, so please wait for a while.
Thank you!
isiB.
Nice to meet you. Sorry for the late reply.
First of all, since we were talking about tiles, I accidentally forgot the size.
I am writing this after returning home and checking it.
First, the size of the tiles in our inner garage is 30cm square.
I'm glad we ended up with this size.
First used in showrooms and dealership maintenance areas.
We considered painting over the concrete.
I've had older cars, especially Italian cars, leak oil and all sorts of things quite often on WW.
That is why we looked for a material that would not soak through.
The old garage was concrete before the new construction and was very dirty.
Cost-wise, I don't think it would have been that expensive.
I asked the front desk person at the dealership I knew well.
The danger of slipping on rainy days when there are drops of water on the soles of the shoes, and
We gave up on it because of the need for regular maintenance.
Next we went to a dealer of ADVAN and other tiles.
The tiles are marked with a load capacity
Not many of them are designed to be placed in a car.
There were.
The downside of large format tile is cracking. Garages should never be
The larger the surface, the larger the surface in daily use because it is not completely flat.
It is more susceptible to cracking.
After all, it is easy to make a smooth surface and also has a good grip.
We looked for non-slip tiles.
It is also connected to the exterior approach, but with color and texture.
I chose something similar so I have no idea.
The beauty of tile is that it is not easily scraped like concrete.
So, concrete shavings like fine sand in the garage are
There is none at all. And the garage is rarely cleaned.
Nothing was cleaned when this picture was taken.
Sometimes I see them mixed in with cars with a lot of dead leaves, etc.
With a vacuum cleaner specially designed for this place (it's a regular house vacuum cleaner, WW).
I even clean it, but only once every 4-6 months at most.
There is also the occasional stone gravel that comes with the tires.
I don't mind at all.
I've always longed for an inner garage.
I did not want to be completely alone in my space.
In a space where anyone can go to that space and do something else.
I wanted it to be.
Fortunately or unfortunately, our house is located on a slightly elevated lot.
The inner garage is treated as a basement.
The front has an approach and leads to the street.
Take the elevator down to the basement.
From there, open the glass door and get in the car.
Open the shutters
This is what I wanted to do.
Because of the semi-basement, we were very careful to prevent condensation.
Summer condensation is more of a problem in the basement.
While ground-facing RC is always at a constant temperature
Hot moist air in the summer will cause condensation to enter the room.
So it's a garage that is mostly buried underground.
External insulation with polystyrene foam over waterproof application
The interior portion of the basement is also covered with polystyrene foam from the inside.
In addition, as a precautionary measure against condensation on the inside of the
Find a product that creates a layer of condensation that will flow out if there is condensation.
Drainage channels are provided. All of these are in pits in the parking lot.
It is a system that flows into the system.
The most difficult part was the slope.
Our house is in a class 1 low-rise residential area, so only 2 stories are allowed
We really need to make it underground at all costs.
A reverse slope was required.
And what's more, the GT3 has a very low lip spoiler.
I was quite careful. I don't know how long I'll be on board.
I'm sure you'll be hard pressed to find a public road car lower than this for me to ride in.
This even made the tile craftsman cry.
A full-scale 2D model was made on a board and checked over and over again.
I really appreciated that you made it.
Thanks to that, now I don't have to term down from any angle.
We are able to freely enter and leave the warehouse.
I have a car with a front lifter, currently in my possession.
It would still be a hassle to do it every time you park at home.
There's plenty of room in the space, but if you're going to go this far.
I'm not sure if I could have made it for another car, though.
Three more cars in the gated garage outside to balance with the house.
One car can be parked for guests, so no more luxuries.
Unless you have a special environment like our house, which is semi-basement.
I don't need to worry about condensation, so sorry for the extra text.
I would rather ventilation be a priority.
If you can run the engine longer in the garage.
Ventilation should be thought of as a diagonal between in and out.
The displacement should be considered according to the parking space.
Our house has a glass door in the basement that can be opened.
High horsepower air conditioners are installed.
The lighting was conceived so that the line would land in the center of the car.
Four sensor lights and
There are four more for even more brightness, for a total of eight LEDs.
I thought about wall and floor lights, but they got too flashy.
I decided not to do this because I would not be able to see the beautiful RC strikethrough.
I also have waterproof outlets in the four corners plus the left and right centers.
It is useful for anything, such as a device to prevent battery drain.
I really wanted to install an overslider shutter.
We had to abandon the project due to the height of the basement.
Now it's only slightly slower speed, so I don't care anymore.
Rather, we were able to match the shutters on the outside garage.
I even think this would have been better.
I apologize for the very long and difficult to read sentence.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask me anytime.
Oh, let me borrow MINA's comments on WW.
MINA, may I?
cara acid
Such detail...thank you!
Of course, you can use the comment section here, or if you prefer to communicate directly with us, we will connect you.
Thank you!
cara acid
Thank you for your quick reply.
The process of tile selection is very informative.
I would like to have 60cm square tiles like the ones I see in the showroom, but there seem to be a lot of disadvantages when it comes to maintenance.
I had heard that large format tiles are prone to cracking, but I was blind to the need to take into account the slope.
Also, if you think about it calmly, the frequency of taking cars in and out of the showroom is completely different from that of a garage.
It is very valuable information to know that even a 30cm square can be finished as shown in the photo, and that it only needs to be cleaned once every few months.
I am ashamed to say that this is the first time I have heard of a tile manufacturer called Advan. I was thinking 10mm would be fine, but I thought I would reconsider here.
I will also refer to the number of lights.
My environment is a wooden first floor garage, and I genuinely enjoyed reading about the difficulties unique to semi-basement concrete.
Thank you for your valuable information, which is too much to be contained in the comments section. I will ask questions if I encounter any more points that I am not sure about.
Thank you for your continued support.
Mina.
Thank you for contacting CARA. It was very helpful to have a very informative garage review.
I'm in the process of thinking a lot about how to make the space more than just a place to store cars, but a space I like. That is also fun.
isiB.
Thank you! I hope to visit cara's garage someday and post an interview on my blog.
My husband is also currently looking for land to build a garage, so we would be happy to exchange more information with you.
Thank you for your continued support.