996 Carrera or E46 M3 for the Nurburgring?

[nsa]

Assuming either car will have suspension, brake, and tyre upgrades. I'm less concerned about the intial cost and engine issues around the 996 for the purposes of this decision. I'm trying to find reasons to go with the 996 over an M3, which is the more obvious choice.

I prefer driving the 996 because it feels lighter through the steering and therefore more involving, and I like the rearwards weight distribution of my 924, but the availability of parts/expertise to fix the M3 around the Nurburgring means that it is probably the more practical of the two to run as a track car.

I can't think of a Nurburgring car hire company with a standard Carrera on its fleet, but they all have at least one E46. Have I just answered my own question?

[ringweekends]

I've often thought about this very question!

I'd prefer the 996 with a few mods.

Because not (as) obvious

[e21Mark]

Unsurprisingly my vote goes with the M3. It's a hugely capable car but it's also relatively easy and less expensive to maintain. There are plenty of them around and for good reason. I'm not knocking the 996 though, as I like them very much also, but I think the potential for bigger bills and less support makes the M3 a safer bet.

[Dakkon]

Is budget a consideration and how hands on are you?

I would go with the 996, simply because it's not an M3.

[Olivera]

E46 M3. There is a reason why the ring is full of track prepared E46 M3 but very few 996 (non-GT).

[LordHaveMurci]

I own a 996.

If budget is a consideration then the M3 would probably be the better choice, probably more 2nd hand parts to upgrade or new parts probably cheaper & more widely available.

I suspect the 996 may be more fun though.