Want to grow into a 997 GT3. Advice please.

[scorcha]

First off let me thank all for some entertaining reads, you boys do like to have a laugh, whilst unleashing some serious experiance.

My first post so looking for a big welcome.

So, been through the divorce lost my shirt, been playing it safe and nearly have my OWN house paid off, so time for a reward. Mid life crisis well entrenched, girlfriend 15 years my junior but no car to drive her around in!

Been wanting the car of my dreams for a while now and want to start looking to purchase in three to four months. The goal at the moment is a 997 GT3 but dont want to pay the premium besides with recession comming, will squirrel away some cash for that next year or the year after. Been salivating since watching this vid:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DpFvbCzaE4
Must have seen it a thousand times

So I want to jump into something around 30-40K that will hold it's value and be a good trainer. I will only drive on the weekends and want to learn how to tear around a track to scare the bejezuus out of myself. Which porsche would be a good stepping stone into my dream car.

Advice from pure driving experiance wanted and am wanting something to cheerish and fill that empty hole I have had for far too long.

[polarexpress]

Bump your budget into the mid-40's and get yourself the original... a Mk1 996GT3. Won't depreciate and you may never find the reason to go 997GT3

[Geneve]

To preserve your investment you would probably be looking at a 911'Club Sport', 964RS or 996GT3 - each of which have their merits.

From what you say, I think a £40k(+ish) GT3 might be the best bet.

Bear in mind that a global recession would hit the values of most used cars, even the sought after 'enthusiasts' models above.

[loach]

Great clip. Another vote here for the GT3 Mk1 or a 964RS at around your budget. You won't go wrong with either of those - they're both brilliant. The 964 probably looks a little more subtle - maybe something to consider lest anyone unmentionable get the idea you're trying too hard to make a point.



Edit - Oh....and here's the big welcome. Let us know how you get on.

Edited by loach on Saturday 3rd March 11:58

[scorcha]

Thanks guys,

Well so far seems my instincts were correct these are the two that I have been watching the closest. Love the look of these two:

www.pistonheads.co.uk/sales/139528.htm
Shame this one is a left hooker..

www.pistonheads.co.uk/sales/122173.htm

Will I be left feeling anxious for horsies in the 964 though?

Yes have a penchant for black on black. Partial to white also...

[997gt3]

Between those two I'd defo go for the 996 GT3. Also, the 996 is a much much more modern car although you may want to drive round in an antique?!

[loach]

997gt3 said:

Between those two I'd defo go for the 996 GT3. Also, the 996 is a much much more modern car although you may want to drive round in an antique?!

Ditto - that 964 is expensive for a private sale with no comebacks IMO. Lovely, though - but all the money. There's a crew over there that drive their cars like they mean business, so you'd definitely want this one inspected. Looks like it's had a bit invested in it, mind.


Edit - don't mind the LHD business. The LHD ones are nicer. Seriously. If the minor inconvenience of LHD puts you off, the 964 RS may not be for you - it's pretty hard-riding/loud/agricultural no matter where the steering wheel is.

Edited by loach on Saturday 3rd March 14:06

[Globulator]

scorcha said:

watching this vid:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DpFvbCzaE4
Must have seen it a thousand times

I do like the way he's taking those mountain hairpin bends. Much respect to Buster Gonad's driving there

[Paul Dishman]

That 964 is way,way over priced and the wheels aren't the orginal mag alloys either
see the cars here to compare:

http://gtclassics.co.uk/

You really need to try both the 964RS and the Mark 1 GT3 before making a decision

[scorcha]

Guys,

How many 964RS are there in RHD? There seems to be a selection in LHD only.

The reason I am reluctant about LHD is the fact eventually I will go back home and possibly take the car with me. Home is Australia, they dont take too kindly to LHD cars down there, and it will be impossible to sell (God forbid I have to).

U guys don't know how good you have it here car wise. I'm still to investigate the ins and outs of eventually taking my pride and joy back (gratefull for any advise). It's a 40%+ premium to have a nice car there, being a socialist haven evreyone should be the same, and, buy locally produced so if you want something different you pay through the nose. Bastards!

[maximu5]

That GT3 has all the right and desirable modifications. Only pity it is not an original Clubsport.