Hi guys,

This is my inagural post and would like your advice.

I have been considering purchasing a used GT3 and have watched the market closely. I seen some nice examples available for just under $90k. However, it appears the GT3 has held its value quite well compared to other 911 model variants.

1. When can we expect the GT3 to start depreciating faster?

2. Do you think the 996 GT3 will drop in value substantially when the 997 GT3 is released?

3. When is the 997 GT3 expected to be released? Will it sell for $100k like the current model? Will the 997 version be a substantial improvement over the 996 version?

4. Is it likely to see the GT3 in the $70k range by next year?

5. How much horsepower is the 997 GT3 expected to produce? Will it be competitive with the ZO6 from an overall performance perspective?

I am also considering a used 996 turbo. Is the GT3 that much better handling than the turbo? Will the installation of a PSS9 and other suspension mods on the turbo bring it close to GT3's handling prowess? The main reason I find the 996 turbo so appealing is the ability to increase power substantially for a modest investment.

The car will be used primarily as a weekend toy to attack the twisties and ocassional commuting duties. I also plan to attend a couple of driving schools with the car.

I have also considered the new ZO6 and NSX. Do you think the new C6 ZO6 is worth considering over the GT3? I never really cared much for the Corvette, but the new ZO6 with 427 cubic inches and 505 hp for only $70k, sounds interesting. Any thoughts on the NSX? Is it even in the same league as the 911? You can lease the Honda for only $800/month, which is cheap for a $90k car.

Thanks for your help.

George

 

Welcome! That's a whole lot of questions.....

 

1. When can we expect the GT3 to start depreciating faster?
If the 997GT3 is determined to be superior. No guarantee's it will be in the US. If the motor uses a tuned 997S 3.8 using the wet oil sump, 996 GT3's should hold their value and from a motor standpoint, will be superior to the 997 incarnation...currently holding value better than any other Porsche in the 996 series.

2. Do you think the 996 GT3 will drop in value substantially when the 997 GT3 is released? see above...

3.When is the 997 GT3 expected to be released? Will it sell for $100k like the current model? Will the 997 version be a substantial improvement over the 996 version?

I am sure it will cost more....personally, I don't think the US is going to see it. Others may disagree. I don't see a substantial improvement if any...

4. Is it likely to see the GT3 in the $70k range by next year?
maybe a higher mileage one >10,000 miles, especially if it was a track *****...

5. How much horsepower is the 997 GT3 expected to produce? Will it be competitive with the ZO6 from an overall performance perspective?

maybe 400, but that's what the actual rating is for the 996 variant as shown by numerous dyno's. The published specs are very conserrvative at 381 crank hp. My car with and exhaust/air filter modification is approx 420 hp conservatively at the crank based on a recent mustang dyno run. 372 rwhp.

Z06 will have a brute torque/acceleration advantage. It will be killed in the cornering and braking department, imo...


recommendation..BUY NOW!!!

 

<am also considering a used 996 turbo. Is the GT3 that much better handling than the turbo? Will the installation of a PSS9 and other suspension mods on the turbo bring it close to GT3's handling prowess? The main reason I find the 996 turbo so appealing is the ability to increase power substantially for a modest investment.>

The turbo is a totally different car and if you want to go major mods then the turbo is the way to go. What is your goal? Mega horsepower and AWD or great handling and RWD.


<The car will be used primarily as a weekend toy to attack the twisties and ocassional commuting duties. I also plan to attend a couple of driving schools with the car.

I have also considered the new ZO6 and NSX. Do you think the new C6 ZO6 is worth considering over the GT3? I never really cared much for the Corvette, but the new ZO6 with 427 cubic inches and 505 hp for only $70k, sounds interesting. Any thoughts on the NSX? Is it even in the same league as the 911? You can lease the Honda for only $800/month, which is cheap for a $90k car.>

NSX is a great car but not in the same league with either Porsche. I owned a 2000 NSX-T and went to a 993 turbo never regretted that decision. Corvette is a lot of bang for the buck but also not the same caliber of car as either Porsche.

 

The GT3 (near future) depreciation was a big factor in my decision to buy a used GT2. The way my financing is structured, over the next 36 months, the GT2 would cost less to own than the GT3. I believe the largest depreciation hit coming for the GT3 has already been taken by the GT2.


Had a 1992 NSX back in the day ... great car, low maintenance

G

 

too many questions & u're not driving. if the car start to depreciate then so be it. u can't always wait for the best deal because car do depreciate. what's the enjoyment worth? if that fits the budget then go for it!

 

i agree with u arling...


buy it drive it and most importantly enjoy it,, if it depreciates so be it ,....

wheni trade my old 996 for my turbo dealer gave me like 43,000 for it, i know i took a hit on it but who cares i had 30,000 miles when i trade it in.. 30,000 miles of pure driving enjoyment...

people who have compalined alot about the depreciation are the ones who only drove their cars for like 5,000 miles or less.. and traded their car in for alot less money....

in myopinion drive it...

 

Joe,
damn, for real like roy said u're smarter than u look man...

sounds like i'm driving less than 5,000 miles a year.

 

I read the Z06 will have something like 20 small brakes pads , six at each front caliper and four ? in each rear one . Is that a gimmick or is there an advantage to all these leading pad edges biting on the rotor or for dissipating heat build up ?

 

Hey guys,

Thanks for the responses. I definitely admit to over analyzing my automotive purchases. For me, buying a car is an emotional decision, however I always let my analytical side enter into the equation.

I am 90% sure it will either be a GT3 or 996 turbo. The ZO6 would probably be exciting for a couple of months, but I don't think it will satisfy over the long haul. Also, the only reason I even considered the NSX was the cheap lease payment.

Another thing I wanted ask was about the PCCB's on the GT3. I have read many threads on the pros and cons, but did not see a conclusion if they were better. How long do these brakes last under normal use? What is the cost of replacement?

Thanks again.

 

hahah but that 5,000 miles is spread out to 8 different cars lol... if i had taht many cars to go around with my miles would be low...

****.. maybe i just drive too much... i go to your shop too much.... lol

 

that is a tough decision.. turbo and gt3

if u have the money to spend and dont need a backseat... go for the gt3.. iw ant a gt3 but i need a back seat... if your a track ***** gt3 is the car to get ...

but if u want a gt car go with the turbo,, the torque on it is awesome.. it is conformtabel enough to be a daily driver.. yes i do drive mine every single day.....

 

i drive my turbo everyday also. i think you should get plenty of seat time in both cars in different driving conditions. both are great cars and i think at this point its a personal decision.

 

Rule of thumb: if you're considering a Turbo & GT3, then the Turbo is probably the better fit for you.

 

How true...

However Noel, we must be patient to those who aren't "in the know." We can at least try to save people money, because if you buy a Turbo and change your mind it can be a very expensive proposition. Look at how we brought Paul over, who was formerly a big Turbo advocate!