L1ttle Wing

So I stopped at the Porsche dealership today, just to see what they had, and they had quite a few interesting cars in their inventory. The car that piqued my interest the most was a dark blue 996 GT3 with 5k miles. It was pouring down rain today, so I decided to hold off on a test drive til later this week. They also had a 993 C4 and a 993 C2 (though I've never driven one, I've always lusted after the looks of the 993 and the sound of the air-cooled engine). In addition to those cars, I checked out a few Cayman S models, a pre-owned M6, and an Aston DB7 (not interested), as well.

My question is, does anybody have experience with any (or all) of these cars? I have driven a CS on multiple occasions, but at that time I had only my s2k to compare it to. I have a feeling I will love the GT3 from the driver's seat, but I'm not sure I could ever come to love the exterior design. I will never tire of the 993's lines, but I think it will feel too heavy (compared with the S2000) or too slow (compared with my 400hp 335i). The CS seems like a great driver's car, but I feel like it will be a compromise- not as hardcore as the GT3, and not as enjoyable on a brisk weekend morning as a convertible.

And please don't suggest a Boxster. I'm sure they are amazing cars, but I just see too many posers cruising around, showing off their PORSH to everyone. If I want another convertible, I'll buy another s2k or an NB Miata (and if you have anything bad to say about Miatas, then go spend a Sunday at your local SCCA autocross).

Thanks in advance for any input!

highwaystardoritos

why the 996 gt3 and not the 997 gt3?

L1ttle Wing

I LOVE the 997 GT3, but even pre-owned, ~$90k is a little pricey for a second car.

waltk88

The new Cayman R should be amazing. I'd think it would be a match for the 996 GT3 on the track and a better drive on the street. I owned a Cayman S for the past 15 months and loved it.

CosmosMpower

996 gt3 was and is still a beast drive it and I bet. You'll love it.

DFWs2k

996 gt3 is fun. I don't think it is too harsh for the street, but most people probably couldn't daily my S either.

I don't like the exhaust. Every porsche I have driven (996 gt3, 996 c4 cabriolet, 997 w/ X51) didn't really have a good exhaust note until the 996 c4s with performance muffler or whatever that I drove last month. That sounded awesome, not sure if something like that is an option for the gt3 (don't remember sound of x51 997, just know gt3 was less than aggressive).

If the 996 gt3 is in your budget, then I wouldn't even look at the 993 or the cayman.

luder_5555

Danny049

You wouldn't happen to be from Cincinnati and looking at the Porsche Dealer in the Kings Automall would you?

If so...I work next door at Infiniti..otherwise, crazy coincidence that they have a blue 996 GT3, couple of 993's, and a DB7.

thumbnail

this is the deal breaker for me regarding 996. I can't grow to like a car that I don't like its look in the first place no matter how much power it has or how much fun it is to drive.

love the 993 although i think you will feel slow compared to your S2000, not to mention maintenance on these old cars.

dogas

Walking into a porsche dealership is like walking into a candy store

Always some fun things lying around there!