I have the privilege of driving 1000’s of laps in road going 996 and 997 GT3’s as well as successfully racing both 996 and 997 GT3 cup cars in UK Carrera cup and other race series. I know both cars intimately. In road versions the 996 is the better car as it’s passive damping allows the car to be predictable up to and beyond 10/10ths. The active damping of the 997 makes the car unpredictable at or near 10/10ths as the front damper increases resistance as the nose is loaded during trail braking. The opposite is true when comparing race versions as both cars have passive damping. Of the two, the 997 is quicker due to its stiffer platform, sequential gearbox and increased power. It’s is a much tricker car to drive as it has no abs but an adjustable brake bias instead making it easy to lock an unloaded wheel under braking. Also the gearbox requires a decent heal toe technique On downshifts to prevent locking the rear wheels through incorrect rev matching. Finally, the brake pedal feel in the 997 is quite ‘wooden’ compared to the 996. In summary, the 997Cup is the quicker car but requires a higher degree of driving competence to master. The best road GT3 that I’ve driven by far is the 996GT3RS which - to this day - is the best 911 that I have ever driven. Anecdotally, if you jump out of a track prepared 996GT3 into a 996 cup, you can feel that you are still driving the same car - All be on steroids. Jump out of a 997 GT3 into a 997 Cup and there’s no real comparison. The 996 GT3 represents a rare moment water cooled 911 historic where the road and race car were essentially the same. That will probably never be repeated again
I am lucky enough to own both 996 cup and 996 GT3 and couldn’t agree more. They really are the same underpinnings. I have driven a friend’s 996 GT3RS on track and was amazed at how much more refined the suspension geometry felt compared to the 996 GT3. Much lighter on its feet although perhaps not quite as engaging because of the increased stability? I am splitting hairs and possibly being unfair because the RS was a very street friendly set up. I felt it was exactly half way between a 996.2 GT3 and 997.1 GT3 in terms of its handling feel and performance.
Incredible to read such a precise evaluation. I don’t even track and wouldn’t be able to tell the difference at all, but it’s wonderful to know there are drivers who can.
Best value for money would be a 996.2 GT3 Clubsport with some decent after market dampers and bigger front rotors. The 997.1 GT3 C/S has the potential to be the better car but you will need to replace the PASM for a decent after market damper and replace the diff for a Guards or similar.
By far the 997.2 is the best blend of old and new. It has faster steering, better suspension, shifter, and more power. It was the old 911 formula in its final iteration. It doesn't hide the RR dynamics like the 991 and 992, but does the best with what 911 once was.
it's like comparing a grand seiko to a rolex, one's technically better but the other is just more desirable. I'd go for a GT4 or Boxster Spyder for the price tbh lol
steering feel would just be no comparison. You're gonna feel 5x as many things in the GT3..kinda the point of weekend sports car As a daily I'm sure GT4 is better. But then if daily, GTS is probably better than that.
No offense but I think people who watch this video also needs to watch Misha's video on the 996.2 GT3 vs 997.2 GT3 driven on the 'Ring. My feeling is the driver in this video doesn't have enough seat time and isn't driving anywhere near fast enough to understand the differences between the two cars. I have both a 997.2 GT3 and a 996.2 GT3 both bone stock and as far as the visceral emotional Porsche experience it's the 996 all day. At the track with both cars on Cup 2's the 997.2 isn't even much faster, FYI. And for a truly awesome experience people need to really experience the 996 GT2, aka Widowmaker (although it's not the original Widowmaker).
Agreed, I have a 996.2 GT3 and it's still a beast on track days and twisty roads. You really have to be smooth on steering inputs which is super rewarding when done right.
Tough to compare two vehicles modified differently and make conclusions about them. While I understand the difficulty of finding them, I think the comparison of two stock examples would be much more valuable. Even alignment can make a significant difference in handling feel.
great review mate. love both for different reasons. to own & drive every day (which it would be for me) then 997.2 - but to go crazy on a track 996.2 - both great.
I came from a 997.1 GT3 and now have 997.2 GT3… they didn’t fix the handling and steering until 997.2 The 997.1 has roughly same motor as 996.2 and some of the sometimes sketchy steering. 997.2 is the perfect GT3. Best of old and new. Last Mezger, last hydraulic steering, last small body, 3.8 L (just enough power), no un needed extras, etc. My suspension is bone stock. Exhaust is muffler bypass though. Not a bad thing. Rest of my car is stock besides decals and metal trim I make and conservative tune to make up for lack of back pressure from exhaust mod and take advantage of 93 octane. Come out to Atl/mountains and I’ll arrange a 997.1 GT3 vs 997.2 GT3 comparison for you. I run a local 100 member GT Owners group
Yes, definitely try to review the different generations stock vs stock (or as close to it as possible). I also agree that the 997.2 GT3 (and RS, of course) are the sweet spot that combine all the best attributes that I look for in a Porsche Motorsport derived experience. I’ve driven them all and have owned the latest 992 GT3 touring. For me, the 997.2 RS is the keeper. Great review…please keep them coming!
@@dakariusashby7968 negative … only 997.2 that didn’t carry over the mezger was the turbo and turbo S. The GT3 (3.8L) and GT3 RS (3.8L) and GT3 RS 4.0 (4.0L) and GT2 (3.6L) and GT2 RS (3.6L) got the mezger.
I really do appreciate these early GT3 reviews. I wish someone would lend you a properly set up 996 GT3 though. This one is obviously not set up correctly, and I’m not just talking about the stiffness. Even with those Motons on a bumpy road, that thing should stick like shit to a blanket. The nose of the car is in the air which is causing the power on understeer that you complained about. A simple 10mm reduction in front ride height will completely change the dynamics of that 996. The 996 GT3 is very sensitive to set up and is best served with a good dose of rake and negative camber.
Porsche the pinnacle of mechanical craftsmanship, pedigree and automotive design, drive Porsche or die trying, at least. Keep the Porsche content coming!
Great review. All GT3 are very sensitive to setup. The 2-way remote Motons are pretty much racecar stuff with much more adjustment than the Ohlins. I have the Ohlins on my 996 gt3 and its a huge improvement over stock on both road and track, not to mention the adjustment is idiot proof compared to the 2-way Motons. Sounds like you need to try that 996 on track.
Both are fantastic - 996.2 GT3 is quite edgy when pushed. Interiors are irrelevant in GT div cars its all about the drive 😀 With the 996.2 GT3 its all about the threshold braking and trail braking to load and control the front.
It'd be great to see a Head to Head review of this 997.2 GT3 against the the Evora GT you recently reviewed since it's a mid engined car with it's engine placed farther back than a cayman giving it a similar rear weight bias as the 997.2 GT3.
I love the 996.2 GT3. I have a 996 C4S and I agree the shifter is ok but definitely could be more precise. This is because it's a cable not a rod shift linkage. The extra weight ahead of the centre in the AWD C4S actually helps reduce understeer in certain situations Vs the rwd 996s. You can be very aggressive with the throttle in it.
So excited and thankful for your willingness to learn and am happy you're respectful of the performance, learning the driving skills required for driving a Porsche 911, particularly a GT3 better/well. 996.2 is The FIRST generation of a Porsche GT car, that arrived on the shores of the U.S. for enthusiasts to appreciate and enjoy, built to satisfy the homologation requirements. So, yes, it is a very different time period and design evolution compared to the 997.2. 911=the front is light. SO; brake first, then turn-in. Smoother , progressive and less aggressive accelerator input as you pass through the turn's apex, please adjust the Moton's for the twisty/bumpy road, CUP Shifter cables, CUP Clutch...
Even a standard 996.2 sounds better than the 997.2. It's not the exhaust. The 996.2 GT3 has a particularly soulful induction howl. It's a very, very special noise. Handling wise the 996 is obviously more technical. but once you get the knack of trailing the nose into the the apex and how incredibly hooked up it feels when you do it, the 997 is a bit bland. I grant the 997 is the nicer object, and I don't love the 996's looks or interior. But for driving pleasure, it has the 997 squarely beaten. I'd driven every GT3 bar the 992 and the 996.2 would be my pick by far for driving enjoyment. if I had one I'd probably ducktail to get rid of the silly wing.
I had a chance to go around Roebling Road in a stripped 996 GT3 with Motons and Hoosiers. Felt like it weighted as much as a miata with kart like grip. Deafening roar!
Really enjoyed this review and happy the algo brought me to this channel, cool content! But I have to say, even though I prefer the 997 myself, those mods did the 996 dirty. That‘s totally not a street car anymore, was hopping all over the place. Maybe should have adjusted the shocks before the test?
I have just driven a 996.2 GT3, a 997.1 GT3 and my 991.1 C2s. To me, the 996 has irritable charm of it is directness and rawness. The 997 felt closer to my 991 than the 996. Quite surprising really. If I’m looking for a weekend fun car I am more leaning towards a 996 gt3. I am not fussed about track time either.
The 996.2 headlights are not ugly like the 996.1. They're really pretty and look shiny and gem-like especially against black paint. A nicely detailed and paint-protected 996.2 looks great from the front.
That 996.2 you keep driving is not representative and not well set up for the kind of tests you do. Find another one to drive before you next compare the 996.2 GT3 to anything.
I have owned both, first all the .2 GT3 are the ones to get. 996,997 or 991. As regards to driving, i own a NSX-R and a 997.2 3.8RS. It is the only two i would keep to my grave. The driving experience is second to none. The 996.2 GT3 feels more analog and more 911, shifter is much better than the shitty too short one of the 997, but they're both shit compared to the NSX. The key to have fun in those is the 3.89 R&P of the 3.8rs and the 4.0 clutch and flywheel put this on any GT3 and it will wake them up. Also 996Cup shifter to improve the feel.
When I moved over to a street legal track car some years ago I had experience with the 997 Ruf R Kompressor. PASM, or Porsche Active Suspension Management, on that car was a complete let down. So I traded for a 996.2 GT3 and put a GMG Thrust Arm bushing kit on it. VERY predictable and precise.
Very interesting comparison, thanks for a great review. I do wonder if the issues with the 996 just emphasise how difficult it is to set up custom suspension. It’s worth looking into the UK RPM Technik 997.1 CSR, wile a restomod, each version has its suspension set up by an experienced race engineer. For me the 997 is a much more resolved car inside and out and goes better as a result, but here’s a question, is a 997.1S X51 better than a 996 GT3?
Hi Zygrene, sounds to me like your 996 had some sort of setup/geometry problem. Please don't ask me exactly what, as mine was set up by my Porsche specialist, who's people have lots of experience in setting up all generations of 911 for road AND track. All I know is that my 996 tightens up very nicely when you apply the throttle, and does so both in slower and in faster/wider corners, meaning it does so regardless of the speed of the throttle application. In other words, on-power under-steer is totally avoidable. Note: that's speaking of my non-GT3 996.2, fitted with some after-market suspension bits that allow for a full range of adjustments like right height, camber and toe. And of course proper coil-overs (TracTive).
Agree, neither my 996 GT3 CS nor my 996 cup suffer from power on understeer. My GT3 did when it was a stock car but simply adding some rake to get weight over the front wheels along with more negative camber cured this. The car in the review clearly has the front end up in the air. Not correctly set up.
Excellent videos as always. Thoughts on these gt3 vs the 718 Spyder? You're one of the few that have recently driven both back to back. What would you rather have for sound and daily driving in a hot climate?
Jeff's 718 Spyder easily beats both of these GT3s in handling, and its engine sound isn't far off with the inconel exhaust. I'd choose a manual Spyder as a daily friendly GT car.
@TheWahhaja I guess posting a link was a no-no, here was what I wrote when I drove the Spyder back to back from my Gt3: My friend and I swapped cars a few weeks ago. Impression on the 718 spyder. What I liked: - Nice engine, pulls hard all the way to the top. A little less zing at the top than my GT3. - Way nicer ride than mine, firm but totally livable as a daily. You can tell it’s a GT car with serious performance envelope but it’s a car that you’ll be happy to have on the road everyday. - Level of refinement is sooo much better than my old GT3. It’s just a much nicer cabin to be inside. Unlike my car, this car actually looks $100k+ inside and out. 10+ years of progress for ya. - Mid engine chassis balance is a thing. I think I would feel way more comfortable carrying speed into a corner in this than my 997. - PCCB on this > steel on mine. Stops better and have better pedal feel than my car - Much better and more precise shifting action, plus a clutch that I can actually live with daily. What I didn’t like (as much, it’s relative, still a GT pcar I’ll take over just about any other car out there): - Steering is meh… precise, nicely weighted. But you don’t know what you missed until you go back to back and drive an old Porsche with a hydraulic rack. - These newer buckets are wider then the old cars by like, a lot. I feel snug in mine and have room to move around a bit in these. - Engine noise… hands down my old car with the mezger sounds better. Blame the emission folks in EU for the particulate filters. - It’s almost too easy to drive fast? Not sure how to describe this one… Overall impression: you can tell it’s a GT pcar, sharp and precise and a lot of fun. More than fast enough and one of the most beautiful pcar on sale today. Best way to compare this to my car is that this is like my GT3 but with all the rough edges polished off. It’s easier to drive, more refine, and even tho it’s down on power by a little I am pretty sure it’s at least a second or three faster on the track due to better balance, better brakes, and (slightly) lighter weight. I think I’ll have more fun while losing in mine tho ;-)
Their price doesn’t reflect the value of the driving experience. 911’s reverence drove up prices. He described the 996 really well. There are so many enjoyable performance cars for much less $. I owned a Porsche and other sports cars. The only way to justify these prices is reverence. Buying into the idea that you have attained the purest. Drive a Radical, Atom, Exige; then tell me about purity. And don’t tell me they are good daily drivers. Comfort has value as well. My 2 cents.
Great video as always buddy. The cars are really great but at this price point a newer GT4 maybe is a good "middle ground"? Obviously not as visceral but as an overall package? Man I wish I lived near those roads and the weather you have, not jelous at all. Everytime I see a video from the region I get jelous 😅
With the price of the 996 GT3 being comparable to 991.2 Carrera T, how do those compare? What about a Carrera T with tune and +100hp like you reviewed before? I regret not being able to get a 996 GT3 when the price was low, I was focused on saving for a house (no regrets there!), but sometimes I feel as the prices on cars go up I am hesitant to get them because I am attracted to the newer/faster things that seem to offer better performance/$. I’m also not into owning garage queens, I want to put miles on my cars and enjoy them, so I don’t look at appreciating cars as an advantage. If anything I feel worse that I’m racking up miles on something that keeps get more valuable. Anyways, as always, thanks for the great review!
The 996 GT3 is on another level of rawness, while the 991.2 T can easily be used every day. The difference in performance is also huge. So easy to get power out of the modern turbo motors, but give me a howling NA Mezger any day. I think I'd still take the T since I'm less tolerant of a stiff ride and high NVH these days.
@@Zygrene I’m now in my 40’s. I cut my teeth on RX7’s growing up in the 90’s. The things I tolerated into my 20’s as perfectly acceptable for a daily driver, honestly still baffles me lol. I’ve really grown to appreciate the efficiency and usability of modern cars! It amazes me how well modern suspension can handle the uneven road surface of a canyon road or slice around perfect tarmac but then be perfectly docile and comfortable around town. Technology is amazing!
@@joeracer302 I'm in the same boat, in my 40s, love the era but don't think those prices are justified. Modern sports cars are better than purists give them credit for. I'd much rather have a 992, better tech, better balance, less understeer etc
I hate saying this because GT3's (all gens) are amazing cars, but that 996.2 seemed like an absolute penalty box on that canyon road. The harsh suspension, vague shifter, plasticky interior, rattles/squeaks, boomy exhaust... even watching it over a video was enough haha. I bet it'd be fun on a track where you could really play with the rear weight balance, but that's about it. Easy call for me, 997 all the way.
those 996 Recaro are fantastic as had in my 997.1 RS (swapped) … my Euro spec 997.1 RS has the Carrera GT carbon buckets and no where near as much chassis and feel coming through the seats as the 996 seats … notice how the move slightly in the video
I am in Europe and starting to look at both of those cars, I think your video is the most complete on comparing both, thank you. I know you filmed this almost a year ago but I am surprised to see the price difference. In Europe they are more or less at the same price, about €120k for a decent one, with mileage you can find a bit cheaper. The 996 is still on average a bit cheaper but if I get one I will probably look for one with the factory clubsport package, only 500 were done by Porsche, which then brings the 996 GT3 CS on par in regards of prices with a good spec 997 GT3. I am looking for a weekend + track car so I want something raw, I know the 996 will bring me more emotions but I am wondering if the 997 is 90% as raw if I will be ok with that knowing in terms of looks the 997 is far ahead. In any case, for both cars, they will get track focused suspensions, uniballs and a track focused wheel alignment so this will probably close the gap even more in between them in terms of rawness... not sure? Hopefully I can test drive both soon.
as a 981 GT4 owner I love it but I do wish I was making the same money 5 years ago when a 997.2 GT3 would have been about the same money I paid for my GT4
The question is… after experiencing such a wide variety of 911 and Caymans. What is your personal opinion for a weekend toy, lightly modded? 996, 997, 981, 987, 718, S, T, GTS. Say limit the ceiling to 70k. My gut says 981 S/PDK, but the heart says 997.2 C2S manual 😅 The 981 being more to track/canyon, the 997 to cruise and enjoy.
If the car will be tracked, then 987.2 or 981 get my vote. They're still fun on the street. 718 is a great car but the engine character is lacking. Cayman over 911 for handling. For pure street driving, 997 C2S/C4S because I love how it looks and the balance of rawness and comfort.
With the throttle-on push of a heavy rear weight-biased car, rolling on the throttle gently on exit just nets you more understeer. One technique is actually aggressive throttle input to generate more slip angle in the rear to help push the rear around and help the car rotate a bit on exit. Obviously better done in a track environment. Or in the sim lol.
I'm sure that technique works on track. On the street, rolling into the throttle makes the understeer much more gradual rather than inducing it all at once with sharp throttle inputs
Nice comperison.. this 996 gt3 seems to have poorly calibrated suspension, it doesn't absorb the road.. it's constantly transferring mass from back to front and vice versa
I'm down with the 997.2 WITH a DSC Controller. I love everything about it and even though it's funnier than hell in the mountains it's terrific on the street. Really it's the perfect car. I was thinking of dropping another $100-120k to get an RS, but for what?
I own both a 997.2 GT3 and an AP2 S2k. They are more similar then you initially think. Obviously the Gt3 is better in every way, but the chassis balance on the S2K is superior so I feel more comfortable carrying speed at the limit on the AP2. S2k has better shifter, but worse brakes and steering (everything calibrated to the car’s respective engine power). Nicer ride on the s2k and a better ride for daily (slightly). IMO s2k is the best drivers car for the $. Both are amazing and representative of the best in their segment in that era.
@@samwisee it was a tongue-in-cheek joke as Z tends to compare everything to an S2K. I own an AP1 S2K so I totally appreciate the car and you're bang on with the shifter, brakes and steering comparison vs the 997.2 GT3. The steering on the AP1 almost completely lacks feel but it is very quick and accurate. Brakes are easily the weakest point of the car in my opinion and definitely need an upgrade for any serious track time. But the balance is superb and there are very few cars I've ever driven as gratifying to drive as the S2K.
@@bane2haha yeah I guess we have similar taste in cars. I love the S2K, and I can totally see how people get into trouble with the S2k… the car literally bait you to go faster because it feels so balanced and gloat you to chase the limit. Bad brakes plus no TC on the early cars and their snap oversteer tendency probably got a lot of folks into trouble. With that said I love mine, just gotta respect it. I really wish for better brakes tho every time I take it up to the mountain. If I am going to mod the s2k that’ll probably be the first thing I’ll do to it.
The number of Porsches I get offered to review is almost comical. But I'm not complaining! 718 GT4 for track and racking up miles. 997 GT3 for the occasional weekend drive.
Dude very good reviews. Im glad you don't do the new car reviews from the manufacturer so you say the honest opinion. Can you do 718 cayman S / GTS 2.5L and 718 cayman GTS 4.0? Honest review of which one is faster and which one feels the best in city . Can you do a drag race between them? Pdk both or both manual
@Zygrene I've not scrolled ALL of the videos yet, so I apologize if this has been brought up already, BUT I feel that as creators/performers y'all SHOULD know the difference between "RPM" and "RPM's". Even as an acronym it's singular, but only amateurs pronounce it as a plural. Revolutions per minutes VS revolutions per minute
"If your too aggressive...the car understeers!" This guy must not know too much about sports cars if he thinks nobody has said this 1,000 times about a 911.🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
I have the privilege of driving 1000’s of laps in road going 996 and 997 GT3’s as well as successfully racing both 996 and 997 GT3 cup cars in UK Carrera cup and other race series. I know both cars intimately. In road versions the 996 is the better car as it’s passive damping allows the car to be predictable up to and beyond 10/10ths. The active damping of the 997 makes the car unpredictable at or near 10/10ths as the front damper increases resistance as the nose is loaded during trail braking. The opposite is true when comparing race versions as both cars have passive damping. Of the two, the 997 is quicker due to its stiffer platform, sequential gearbox and increased power. It’s is a much tricker car to drive as it has no abs but an adjustable brake bias instead making it easy to lock an unloaded wheel under braking. Also the gearbox requires a decent heal toe technique On downshifts to prevent locking the rear wheels through incorrect rev matching. Finally, the brake pedal feel in the 997 is quite ‘wooden’ compared to the 996. In summary, the 997Cup is the quicker car but requires a higher degree of driving competence to master. The best road GT3 that I’ve driven by far is the 996GT3RS which - to this day - is the best 911 that I have ever driven. Anecdotally, if you jump out of a track prepared 996GT3 into a 996 cup, you can feel that you are still driving the same car - All be on steroids. Jump out of a 997 GT3 into a 997 Cup and there’s no real comparison. The 996 GT3 represents a rare moment water cooled 911 historic where the road and race car were essentially the same. That will probably never be repeated again
I am lucky enough to own both 996 cup and 996 GT3 and couldn’t agree more. They really are the same underpinnings. I have driven a friend’s 996 GT3RS on track and was amazed at how much more refined the suspension geometry felt compared to the 996 GT3. Much lighter on its feet although perhaps not quite as engaging because of the increased stability? I am splitting hairs and possibly being unfair because the RS was a very street friendly set up. I felt it was exactly half way between a 996.2 GT3 and 997.1 GT3 in terms of its handling feel and performance.
Incredible to read such a precise evaluation. I don’t even track and wouldn’t be able to tell the difference at all, but it’s wonderful to know there are drivers who can.
Thanks for your insights.
So which iteration of the 996 or 997 in Manual of GT3, not RS or Cup car is the best for street and some track then?
Best value for money would be a 996.2 GT3 Clubsport with some decent after market dampers and bigger front rotors. The 997.1 GT3 C/S has the potential to be the better car but you will need to replace the PASM for a decent after market damper and replace the diff for a Guards or similar.
the 996 gt3 is a car that the more you drive it, the more you love it. and eventually it'll become your favorite car lol
Classic car stuttgart syndrome
Lol no doubt, the less competent driver would like the 997
@@stevepiccinnin1157 you are incompetent
I have no regrets for having chosen a 20O5 996 GT3. It is a pure drivers car, imo.
By far the 997.2 is the best blend of old and new. It has faster steering, better suspension, shifter, and more power. It was the old 911 formula in its final iteration. It doesn't hide the RR dynamics like the 991 and 992, but does the best with what 911 once was.
Well said Yitao!
Wow. Doing the reviews every gearhead wants. Beautiful
Glad you're enjoying them!
Since prices on 996s have increased to 100k you should do a 981 gt4 compared to that 996.2 gt3!
I’ve driven both and I much prefer the 981 GT4
it's like comparing a grand seiko to a rolex, one's technically better but the other is just more desirable. I'd go for a GT4 or Boxster Spyder for the price tbh lol
steering feel would just be no comparison. You're gonna feel 5x as many things in the GT3..kinda the point of weekend sports car
As a daily I'm sure GT4 is better. But then if daily, GTS is probably better than that.
@@brandonnholwhich one is the grand seiko?
@@brianhimmelman420 keep going. you would love a Geo Metro even more !!
No offense but I think people who watch this video also needs to watch Misha's video on the 996.2 GT3 vs 997.2 GT3 driven on the 'Ring. My feeling is the driver in this video doesn't have enough seat time and isn't driving anywhere near fast enough to understand the differences between the two cars. I have both a 997.2 GT3 and a 996.2 GT3 both bone stock and as far as the visceral emotional Porsche experience it's the 996 all day. At the track with both cars on Cup 2's the 997.2 isn't even much faster, FYI. And for a truly awesome experience people need to really experience the 996 GT2, aka Widowmaker (although it's not the original Widowmaker).
Agreed, I have a 996.2 GT3 and it's still a beast on track days and twisty roads. You really have to be smooth on steering inputs which is super rewarding when done right.
This driver for sure is winging it and has no REAL training- so take this review as just entertainment
I agree, but he makes his biases clear. Canyon and dual duty. I think motons vs Ohlins make a big diff.
Tough to compare two vehicles modified differently and make conclusions about them. While I understand the difficulty of finding them, I think the comparison of two stock examples would be much more valuable. Even alignment can make a significant difference in handling feel.
agreed
Exactly. A track focussed suspension geometry is way less than ideal for road use.
great review mate. love both for different reasons. to own & drive every day (which it would be for me) then 997.2 - but to go crazy on a track 996.2 - both great.
I came from a 997.1 GT3 and now have 997.2 GT3… they didn’t fix the handling and steering until 997.2
The 997.1 has roughly same motor as 996.2 and some of the sometimes sketchy steering. 997.2 is the perfect GT3. Best of old and new. Last Mezger, last hydraulic steering, last small body, 3.8 L (just enough power), no un needed extras, etc.
My suspension is bone stock. Exhaust is muffler bypass though. Not a bad thing. Rest of my car is stock besides decals and metal trim I make and conservative tune to make up for lack of back pressure from exhaust mod and take advantage of 93 octane. Come out to Atl/mountains and I’ll arrange a 997.1 GT3 vs 997.2 GT3 comparison for you.
I run a local 100 member GT Owners group
@zygrene YT keeps deleting my comment... weird. ANyway sorry for multiple comments lol
Yes, definitely try to review the different generations stock vs stock (or as close to it as possible).
I also agree that the 997.2 GT3 (and RS, of course) are the sweet spot that combine all the best attributes that I look for in a Porsche Motorsport derived experience.
I’ve driven them all and have owned the latest 992 GT3 touring. For me, the 997.2 RS is the keeper.
Great review…please keep them coming!
I’ll bring mine out as well. 997.1 GT3 with some stage 1 suspension bits done
997.1 gt3 was the last Mezger. The 997.2 has a new engine.
@@dakariusashby7968 negative … only 997.2 that didn’t carry over the mezger was the turbo and turbo S. The GT3 (3.8L) and GT3 RS (3.8L) and GT3 RS 4.0 (4.0L) and GT2 (3.6L) and GT2 RS (3.6L) got the mezger.
I really do appreciate these early GT3 reviews. I wish someone would lend you a properly set up 996 GT3 though. This one is obviously not set up correctly, and I’m not just talking about the stiffness. Even with those Motons on a bumpy road, that thing should stick like shit to a blanket. The nose of the car is in the air which is causing the power on understeer that you complained about. A simple 10mm reduction in front ride height will completely change the dynamics of that 996. The 996 GT3 is very sensitive to set up and is best served with a good dose of rake and negative camber.
Damn, your reviews are getting better and better!
Porsche the pinnacle of mechanical craftsmanship, pedigree and automotive design, drive Porsche or die trying, at least. Keep the Porsche content coming!
Great review. All GT3 are very sensitive to setup. The 2-way remote Motons are pretty much racecar stuff with much more adjustment than the Ohlins. I have the Ohlins on my 996 gt3 and its a huge improvement over stock on both road and track, not to mention the adjustment is idiot proof compared to the 2-way Motons. Sounds like you need to try that 996 on track.
Both are fantastic - 996.2 GT3 is quite edgy when pushed. Interiors are irrelevant in GT div cars its all about the drive 😀 With the 996.2 GT3 its all about the threshold braking and trail braking to load and control the front.
It'd be great to see a Head to Head review of this 997.2 GT3 against the the Evora GT you recently reviewed since it's a mid engined car with it's engine placed farther back than a cayman giving it a similar rear weight bias as the 997.2 GT3.
I love the 996.2 GT3. I have a 996 C4S and I agree the shifter is ok but definitely could be more precise. This is because it's a cable not a rod shift linkage. The extra weight ahead of the centre in the AWD C4S actually helps reduce understeer in certain situations Vs the rwd 996s. You can be very aggressive with the throttle in it.
So excited and thankful for your willingness to learn and am happy you're respectful of the performance, learning the driving skills required for driving a Porsche 911, particularly a GT3 better/well.
996.2 is The FIRST generation of a Porsche GT car, that arrived on the shores of the U.S. for enthusiasts to appreciate and enjoy, built to satisfy the homologation requirements. So, yes, it is a very different time period and design evolution compared to the 997.2.
911=the front is light. SO; brake first, then turn-in. Smoother , progressive and less aggressive accelerator input as you pass through the turn's apex, please adjust the Moton's for the twisty/bumpy road, CUP Shifter cables, CUP Clutch...
Even a standard 996.2 sounds better than the 997.2. It's not the exhaust. The 996.2 GT3 has a particularly soulful induction howl. It's a very, very special noise. Handling wise the 996 is obviously more technical. but once you get the knack of trailing the nose into the the apex and how incredibly hooked up it feels when you do it, the 997 is a bit bland. I grant the 997 is the nicer object, and I don't love the 996's looks or interior. But for driving pleasure, it has the 997 squarely beaten. I'd driven every GT3 bar the 992 and the 996.2 would be my pick by far for driving enjoyment. if I had one I'd probably ducktail to get rid of the silly wing.
I had a chance to go around Roebling Road in a stripped 996 GT3 with Motons and Hoosiers.
Felt like it weighted as much as a miata with kart like grip. Deafening roar!
Really enjoyed this review and happy the algo brought me to this channel, cool content!
But I have to say, even though I prefer the 997 myself, those mods did the 996 dirty. That‘s totally not a street car anymore, was hopping all over the place. Maybe should have adjusted the shocks before the test?
I have just driven a 996.2 GT3, a 997.1 GT3 and my 991.1 C2s. To me, the 996 has irritable charm of it is directness and rawness. The 997 felt closer to my 991 than the 996. Quite surprising really. If I’m looking for a weekend fun car I am more leaning towards a 996 gt3. I am not fussed about track time either.
Irresistible Charm ! 😅 love the auto correct.
The 996.2 headlights are not ugly like the 996.1. They're really pretty and look shiny and gem-like especially against black paint. A nicely detailed and paint-protected 996.2 looks great from the front.
thanks for the video. do a 997.1 vs 997.2 gt3
That 996.2 you keep driving is not representative and not well set up for the kind of tests you do. Find another one to drive before you next compare the 996.2 GT3 to anything.
I have owned both, first all the .2 GT3 are the ones to get. 996,997 or 991. As regards to driving, i own a NSX-R and a 997.2 3.8RS. It is the only two i would keep to my grave. The driving experience is second to none. The 996.2 GT3 feels more analog and more 911, shifter is much better than the shitty too short one of the 997, but they're both shit compared to the NSX. The key to have fun in those is the 3.89 R&P of the 3.8rs and the 4.0 clutch and flywheel put this on any GT3 and it will wake them up. Also 996Cup shifter to improve the feel.
When I moved over to a street legal track car some years ago I had experience with the 997 Ruf R Kompressor. PASM, or Porsche Active Suspension Management, on that car was a complete let down. So I traded for a 996.2 GT3 and put a GMG Thrust Arm bushing kit on it. VERY predictable and precise.
Very interesting comparison, thanks for a great review. I do wonder if the issues with the 996 just emphasise how difficult it is to set up custom suspension. It’s worth looking into the UK RPM Technik 997.1 CSR, wile a restomod, each version has its suspension set up by an experienced race engineer. For me the 997 is a much more resolved car inside and out and goes better as a result, but here’s a question, is a 997.1S X51 better than a 996 GT3?
I’m thinking of selling my ‘94 NSX in favour of a 996 C2 with mods. Do you think I should? Great video man 👍🏼.
Hi Zygrene, sounds to me like your 996 had some sort of setup/geometry problem. Please don't ask me exactly what, as mine was set up by my Porsche specialist, who's people have lots of experience in setting up all generations of 911 for road AND track. All I know is that my 996 tightens up very nicely when you apply the throttle, and does so both in slower and in faster/wider corners, meaning it does so regardless of the speed of the throttle application. In other words, on-power under-steer is totally avoidable. Note: that's speaking of my non-GT3 996.2, fitted with some after-market suspension bits that allow for a full range of adjustments like right height, camber and toe. And of course proper coil-overs (TracTive).
Agree, neither my 996 GT3 CS nor my 996 cup suffer from power on understeer. My GT3 did when it was a stock car but simply adding some rake to get weight over the front wheels along with more negative camber cured this. The car in the review clearly has the front end up in the air. Not correctly set up.
997.2 vs 991.1 next video?
Excellent videos as always. Thoughts on these gt3 vs the 718 Spyder?
You're one of the few that have recently driven both back to back.
What would you rather have for sound and daily driving in a hot climate?
Jeff's 718 Spyder easily beats both of these GT3s in handling, and its engine sound isn't far off with the inconel exhaust. I'd choose a manual Spyder as a daily friendly GT car.
@TheWahhaja I guess posting a link was a no-no, here was what I wrote when I drove the Spyder back to back from my Gt3:
My friend and I swapped cars a few weeks ago. Impression on the 718 spyder. What I liked:
- Nice engine, pulls hard all the way to the top. A little less zing at the top than my GT3.
- Way nicer ride than mine, firm but totally livable as a daily. You can tell it’s a GT car with serious performance envelope but it’s a car that you’ll be happy to have on the road everyday.
- Level of refinement is sooo much better than my old GT3. It’s just a much nicer cabin to be inside. Unlike my car, this car actually looks $100k+ inside and out. 10+ years of progress for ya.
- Mid engine chassis balance is a thing. I think I would feel way more comfortable carrying speed into a corner in this than my 997.
- PCCB on this > steel on mine. Stops better and have better pedal feel than my car
- Much better and more precise shifting action, plus a clutch that I can actually live with daily.
What I didn’t like (as much, it’s relative, still a GT pcar I’ll take over just about any other car out there):
- Steering is meh… precise, nicely weighted. But you don’t know what you missed until you go back to back and drive an old Porsche with a hydraulic rack.
- These newer buckets are wider then the old cars by like, a lot. I feel snug in mine and have room to move around a bit in these.
- Engine noise… hands down my old car with the mezger sounds better. Blame the emission folks in EU for the particulate filters.
- It’s almost too easy to drive fast? Not sure how to describe this one…
Overall impression: you can tell it’s a GT pcar, sharp and precise and a lot of fun. More than fast enough and one of the most beautiful pcar on sale today.
Best way to compare this to my car is that this is like my GT3 but with all the rough edges polished off. It’s easier to drive, more refine, and even tho it’s down on power by a little I am pretty sure it’s at least a second or three faster on the track due to better balance, better brakes, and (slightly) lighter weight.
I think I’ll have more fun while losing in mine tho ;-)
Their price doesn’t reflect the value of the driving experience. 911’s reverence drove up prices. He described the 996 really well. There are so many enjoyable performance cars for much less $. I owned a Porsche and other sports cars. The only way to justify these prices is reverence. Buying into the idea that you have attained the purest. Drive a Radical, Atom, Exige; then tell me about purity. And don’t tell me they are good daily drivers. Comfort has value as well.
My 2 cents.
I wonder how a 996 GT3 with Ohlins and a numeric shifter + cables would change things
Will you be doing a comparison between the 997.2 and a 991.2 manual GT3?
Great video as always buddy. The cars are really great but at this price point a newer GT4 maybe is a good "middle ground"? Obviously not as visceral but as an overall package?
Man I wish I lived near those roads and the weather you have, not jelous at all. Everytime I see a video from the region I get jelous 😅
With the price of the 996 GT3 being comparable to 991.2 Carrera T, how do those compare? What about a Carrera T with tune and +100hp like you reviewed before? I regret not being able to get a 996 GT3 when the price was low, I was focused on saving for a house (no regrets there!), but sometimes I feel as the prices on cars go up I am hesitant to get them because I am attracted to the newer/faster things that seem to offer better performance/$. I’m also not into owning garage queens, I want to put miles on my cars and enjoy them, so I don’t look at appreciating cars as an advantage. If anything I feel worse that I’m racking up miles on something that keeps get more valuable. Anyways, as always, thanks for the great review!
The 996 GT3 is on another level of rawness, while the 991.2 T can easily be used every day. The difference in performance is also huge. So easy to get power out of the modern turbo motors, but give me a howling NA Mezger any day. I think I'd still take the T since I'm less tolerant of a stiff ride and high NVH these days.
@@Zygrene I’m now in my 40’s. I cut my teeth on RX7’s growing up in the 90’s. The things I tolerated into my 20’s as perfectly acceptable for a daily driver, honestly still baffles me lol. I’ve really grown to appreciate the efficiency and usability of modern cars! It amazes me how well modern suspension can handle the uneven road surface of a canyon road or slice around perfect tarmac but then be perfectly docile and comfortable around town. Technology is amazing!
@@joeracer302 I'm in the same boat, in my 40s, love the era but don't think those prices are justified. Modern sports cars are better than purists give them credit for. I'd much rather have a 992, better tech, better balance, less understeer etc
I hate saying this because GT3's (all gens) are amazing cars, but that 996.2 seemed like an absolute penalty box on that canyon road. The harsh suspension, vague shifter, plasticky interior, rattles/squeaks, boomy exhaust... even watching it over a video was enough haha. I bet it'd be fun on a track where you could really play with the rear weight balance, but that's about it. Easy call for me, 997 all the way.
360 Modena with a gated manual conversion would be an interesting comparison. They're in a similar price range.
I’d just buy an OEM manual in this price range.
Going to need Ferrari repair money though. The 997 GT3 still is cheap to maintain.
I've yet to drive a manual Ferrari. I bet it's *chef's kiss*
👌🏾❤️👌🏾 nice video/review but I bout lost it seeing all that dust/dirt going inside the 997gt3 😟😆😟
Both cars got pretty dirty 😬
That squeaking is a deal-breaker for me dawg
those 996 Recaro are fantastic as had in my 997.1 RS (swapped) … my Euro spec 997.1 RS has the Carrera GT carbon buckets and no where near as much chassis and feel coming through the seats as the 996 seats … notice how the move slightly in the video
stability control and traction control make a huge difference ;-)
I am in Europe and starting to look at both of those cars, I think your video is the most complete on comparing both, thank you. I know you filmed this almost a year ago but I am surprised to see the price difference. In Europe they are more or less at the same price, about €120k for a decent one, with mileage you can find a bit cheaper. The 996 is still on average a bit cheaper but if I get one I will probably look for one with the factory clubsport package, only 500 were done by Porsche, which then brings the 996 GT3 CS on par in regards of prices with a good spec 997 GT3.
I am looking for a weekend + track car so I want something raw, I know the 996 will bring me more emotions but I am wondering if the 997 is 90% as raw if I will be ok with that knowing in terms of looks the 997 is far ahead. In any case, for both cars, they will get track focused suspensions, uniballs and a track focused wheel alignment so this will probably close the gap even more in between them in terms of rawness... not sure?
Hopefully I can test drive both soon.
Is the 997 bigger and heavier than the 996??
I like how he criticizes the 996 interior when the 997 interior looks three times as crappy🤣🤣🤣
Zygrene, out of all the cars you have reviewed what is your favorite for an over all drivers car?
Check this out: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1QoqAWydVYdy-MARBWKOzGOPhF30SxPeiUwGa1tuV5BE/edit?usp=drivesdk
The 996 is amazing and the 997 interior is highly over rated.
as a 981 GT4 owner I love it but I do wish I was making the same money 5 years ago when a 997.2 GT3 would have been about the same money I paid for my GT4
The question is… after experiencing such a wide variety of 911 and Caymans. What is your personal opinion for a weekend toy, lightly modded? 996, 997, 981, 987, 718, S, T, GTS. Say limit the ceiling to 70k.
My gut says 981 S/PDK, but the heart says 997.2 C2S manual 😅 The 981 being more to track/canyon, the 997 to cruise and enjoy.
Was there a 981.2? I thought 981 was immediately replaced by the 718 4-banger
If the car will be tracked, then 987.2 or 981 get my vote. They're still fun on the street. 718 is a great car but the engine character is lacking. Cayman over 911 for handling. For pure street driving, 997 C2S/C4S because I love how it looks and the balance of rawness and comfort.
@@Zygrene well I guess I need to get wife in both and we flip a coin 🤣 Thanks for the input 🫡
@@kimchee411 you’re right! I jumped the gun a little writing the post. 981 vs 997.2. Thank you sir
Mines road?
Wow 996 GT3’s were as low as $60k??? That’s wild.
I think 997 is best gen 911 and I’d love a 997 gt3 but I wouldn’t be mad at a 996.
With the throttle-on push of a heavy rear weight-biased car, rolling on the throttle gently on exit just nets you more understeer. One technique is actually aggressive throttle input to generate more slip angle in the rear to help push the rear around and help the car rotate a bit on exit. Obviously better done in a track environment. Or in the sim lol.
I'm sure that technique works on track. On the street, rolling into the throttle makes the understeer much more gradual rather than inducing it all at once with sharp throttle inputs
Nice comperison..
this 996 gt3 seems to have poorly calibrated suspension, it doesn't absorb the road.. it's constantly transferring mass from back to front and vice versa
I'm down with the 997.2 WITH a DSC Controller. I love everything about it and even though it's funnier than hell in the mountains it's terrific on the street. Really it's the perfect car. I was thinking of dropping another $100-120k to get an RS, but for what?
just change to the RS R&P3.89 ratio and taller 6th
It would better to compare two cars that were 100% stock.
Man I miss canyon carving in the bay 😢
Big sad I didn’t get a 996 GT3 when they were a sane price
"Which gt3 is best?"
"Yes."
The real question is, how do these compare to an S2000? 🙃
I own both a 997.2 GT3 and an AP2 S2k. They are more similar then you initially think. Obviously the Gt3 is better in every way, but the chassis balance on the S2K is superior so I feel more comfortable carrying speed at the limit on the AP2. S2k has better shifter, but worse brakes and steering (everything calibrated to the car’s respective engine power). Nicer ride on the s2k and a better ride for daily (slightly).
IMO s2k is the best drivers car for the $. Both are amazing and representative of the best in their segment in that era.
@@samwisee it was a tongue-in-cheek joke as Z tends to compare everything to an S2K. I own an AP1 S2K so I totally appreciate the car and you're bang on with the shifter, brakes and steering comparison vs the 997.2 GT3. The steering on the AP1 almost completely lacks feel but it is very quick and accurate. Brakes are easily the weakest point of the car in my opinion and definitely need an upgrade for any serious track time. But the balance is superb and there are very few cars I've ever driven as gratifying to drive as the S2K.
I still enjoy pushing a properly modded S2K more than either of the Porsches, but 90% of the time the 997.2 GT3 is the better car.
@@bane2haha yeah I guess we have similar taste in cars. I love the S2K, and I can totally see how people get into trouble with the S2k… the car literally bait you to go faster because it feels so balanced and gloat you to chase the limit. Bad brakes plus no TC on the early cars and their snap oversteer tendency probably got a lot of folks into trouble. With that said I love mine, just gotta respect it. I really wish for better brakes tho every time I take it up to the mountain. If I am going to mod the s2k that’ll probably be the first thing I’ll do to it.
This guy payed $40k for Toyota with 4 cylinder Subaru engine but complain about GT3😅
This channel has gone full p-car =) 718 GT4 or 997 GT3? That was decision for me...went GT4 brand new...newer tech, power is similar, new car smell ;)
The number of Porsches I get offered to review is almost comical. But I'm not complaining!
718 GT4 for track and racking up miles. 997 GT3 for the occasional weekend drive.
The gears are too tall on porsches. They just dont listen
Dude very good reviews. Im glad you don't do the new car reviews from the manufacturer so you say the honest opinion. Can you do 718 cayman S / GTS 2.5L and 718 cayman GTS 4.0? Honest review of which one is faster and which one feels the best in city . Can you do a drag race between them? Pdk both or both manual
Good video idea!
I'm a big Porsche fan, but in no way is a 996 GT3 worth $100k and a 997.2 GT3 $150k. Same for all their new cars too.
Great review, the 997.2 GT3 has a 3.6 litre engine. 20 bhp more that 997.1. The RS has a 3.8 with shorter gearing!!
10:38 look at the wing, it is a 3.8, the 997.1 GT3 is a 3.6
Honestly, unfortunately, this was not very credible comparison. He gets mixed up with cars and suspension mods.
I have same car, interior and not squeeking. Owner can investigate that a bit.
996 gt3 and 997 gt3 are both dbw fyi
pendulum is the perfect way to describe RR i havent heard many people describe it that way, ive always said that as well lol.
Ngl hearing the 996 squeak so much on the inside is a huge turn off
I would take a Manual ZL1/1LE 7 times from Sunday over that squeaky 996 GT3.
997.2 GT3 >
oh great, yet another dumpster-tier comparison of two otherwise great cars.
@Zygrene
I've not scrolled ALL of the videos yet, so I apologize if this has been brought up already, BUT I feel that as creators/performers y'all SHOULD know the difference between "RPM" and "RPM's". Even as an acronym it's singular, but only amateurs pronounce it as a plural.
Revolutions per minutes VS revolutions per minute
"If your too aggressive...the car understeers!" This guy must not know too much about sports cars if he thinks nobody has said this 1,000 times about a 911.🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣