old GT3 vs. new GT3 vs. 996 C2

[fletch2306]

Hi guys, need some Porsche help.
Was looking at buying a 2000 996 C2 and was quite happy with this until I started to investigate the 996 GT3. From what I have read most people seem to think they are rather special.
Only problem is the cheapest I can find one from an OPC is 67k, where as the C2s that I was looking at were between 45k-55k.
Is the GT3 really worth the extra money over a standard one?
Are they so much different to drive?

At 67k I am only 6-7k off the price of the new one coming out in March. Do you think that the new one will hold its value like the old one seems to have done and do you imagine that the old GT3 will still keep its value like it has for the last 3 years after the new one is out?

I am only going to keep the car for 2 years so which of them do you think will be the best with respects to its value?

Thanks for any help.
Laurence

[dds1]

If you can put up with lhd, 45k should get you a nice gt3 from germany

[TEE]

Interesting question that has been shared by many. You will find many informing forums on it in the archives. The questions is more what is the right car for you. GT3 is very focused, and the old GT3 seems to have some flaws which you have to better understand.

If you are looking for further views on both the old and new GT3 check also this site www.rennteam.com which is another forum where this topic is well discussed.

TEE

[beaver]

Firstly, you may be too late for a new GT3, or at least face a lengthy wait. Secondly, compared to a regular 996 it is a very different animal, and can be quite extreme for the road. The suspension is very stiff, and very low. The chin spoiler rubs on the floor on most driveways, and sometimes on speedhumps.

It's also quite noisy, especially when it rains as it has no soundproofing in the roof.....

But, it has a great engine, based on the GT1 racecar and is immensely strong, powerful and sounds amazing. It's pretty much as quick as a Turbo due to the power/weight ratio, and is easy to drive quickly on the track.

The brakes tend to get hot if pushed hard on the track, but there are ways around this, including braking later ! You should be able to pick one up at an OPC at a decent price, maybe as low as 60K, and get a years warranty with it.

It's the first car I've owned that I don't want to change. I have a new GT3 on order but will probably keep this one....

[fletch2306]

Thanks for the responses guys.
Ive already had a quick read of both the archives here and over at rennteam - all helps in making my decision.
I think beaver is right about the new ones. Had a quick chat with AFN and they already have 15 orders for their 3 car allocation.
Now all I have to do is find a local GT3 for a quick test drive - should be fun.