CHRIS LANSBURY
Long overshadowed by its successors, the 996 GT3 is making a comeback as a fast appreciating modern classic as enthusiasts wake up to the realisation this special 911 is where the now legendary Porsche GT3 line began. With increased attention, however, comes to a rise in prices...
The 996 is the 911 which launched Porsche’s GT3 line with a bang back in 1999. Regarded as a street-legal race car, the 996 GT3 continues to be one of the few Porsches enthusiasts agree should be included in every discerning collector’s garage, much like the 968 Clubsport. Until relatively recently, however, the 996 GT3 was widely overlooked, buyers preferring to hold out for a 997 GT3 or even a 991 GT3. What this means for those in the know is that the utterly brilliant 996 GT3 is a bit of a bargain right now, though quite how long this will remain the case is anyone’s guess.
The 996 GT3 is a hidden gem in a sea of motorsport oriented 911s. Only 1,868 examples were produced between 1999 and 2005, making it the lowest-volume production non-rs GT3. Why, then, has this special Porsche spent the majority of its life not considered a true collector car?
The ‘fried egg’ headlights have always been a topic of hot debate when discussing the 996, but — and I appreciate what I’m about to say is a matter of opinion — time has been kind to this particular Porsche’s front end. It’s certainly the most distinctive of 911 noses. With all 996 prices now on the rise, I think it’s safe to say these lights have grown old gracefully and are commanding a new level of respect, not only from a fresh generation of owners who grew up with the 996 as ‘their’ 911, but also many older enthusiasts who are now of the opinion they unfairly judged the model when new. Accepting criticism of the 996’s front lights have been a bugbear the model has had to contend with all its life, it still seems crazy to me this could be a reason for dismissing ownership of a 996 GT3. The ‘Mezger’ engine in this particular 911 is, for me at least, the most rewarding of all GT3 powerplants to date. Then there’s the lack of traction and stability control systems, not to mention the absence of active suspension. This is a truly driver focused 911, a Porsche built before computers stepped in and took charge. In short, the 996 GT3 is one of the last ‘analogue’ sports cars.
Don’t get me wrong, the 997 GT3 and 991 GT3 are incredible Porsches and I would happily own either, but the 996 GT3 is the street racer promising you’ll only get out what you put in. Is this not what everyone really wants from a proper driver’s car?
At present, the used car market is very strong. Prices of all 911 GT3S have risen accordingly, but the 996 GT3 has only seen a gradual hike when compared to later models. I feel, however, this will change in the coming years. I also don’t think we’ll have to wait too long before we start to see lowmileage examples topping a hundred grand.
Should you choose a first-gen 996 GT3 or the ‘facelift’ version, though? A few years ago, my advice would be to have gone for the later car, mainly because of its looks, which are a little less aggressive and feature more modern front lights. You also get six-piston front calipers and 21bhp more from the screaming ‘Mezger’ flat-six, but the second-generation 996 GT3 does carry a little more weight. Ask me the same question now and I’m not so sure I agree with my younger self. In fact, I now think the original 996 GT3 possesses more charm. The over package is bolder and the car has certainly become a rarer spot.
I’ve been lucky to have owned both models over the years, and the one Porsche I’ve always regretted selling is my first-gen 996 GT3. I bought it when a left-hand drive model cost much less then a right-hand drive equivalent. I was in love with the car, which was finished in Guards Red, but I let it go to make room for a second-generation 996 GT3.
I remember watching the earlier 911 drive away, its new owner satisfied with the sale price of £42,000. Even then, I knew the market would change and I would regret selling, but there’s something to be said for living for today, not holding out for tomorrow. Even so, if I’d stored the car away, it would be worth close to double what I let it go for. I accept this was fifteen years ago and much has changed in the Porsche world since then, but it’s the 911 I wish I could hop in and drive today. I miss that car. Can you tell?!
As mentioned earlier, the market has now woken up to the brilliance of the 996 GT3, but even at today’s prices, I firmly believe this 911 is a compelling buy. My advice is for you to track one down and get your name on its logbook before it’s too late. Good luck and happy hunting!