SERVICE HISTORY AND MILEAGE
The 996 GT3 you see pictured on these pages is currently a sales car in the possession of Suffolk-based independent Porsche tuning, maintenance and sales specialist, PIE Performance. Having covered only 24k miles from new, it's been well looked after. Even so, PIE head honcho, Chris Lansbury, suggests mileage shouldn't really be a concern with these 911s. "The Mezger engine is largely bulletproof," he assures us. "Nevertheless, this doesn't stop it suffering from the effect of less than frequent oil changes. There's also potential for high levels of suspension wear through regular track use. It's no use looking at things like tyres to determine if the car has been in the wars. Anyone can fit new rubber to help sell a 911. Be more focused on the condition of the car's underside, which takes the brunt of abuse due to being significantly lower to the ground than the 996 Carrera."
In addition to checking to make sure the car you're thinking about buying is supported by a wealth of paperwork to support claims of regular servicing ("cars used frequently at the track should really be treated to an oil change either side of a session at a circuit"), he recommends investing in a pre-purchase inspection from a marque specialist familiar with the GT3 line.
"Many people are surprised to find you can live with a 996 GT3 as an everyday 911, but these cars weren't always as desirable as they are now, leading many previous owners to muck about with specification. In standard trim, even with the firmer suspension Porsche installed at the factory, a 996 GT3 is very compliant on the public highway and isn't prone to directional changes on bumpy back roads. Some owners insisted on fitting crashy coilovers, however, which might be fine for people who spend the majority of their time at the track, but compromises the ride in normal driving environments. My advice is to get the car inspected, find out which original parts are missing and factor the cost of reinstating them into the offer you're thinking about making."
Talking of which, prices of early GT3S have rocketed in the past few years, making now a good time to get in on the act. "It's typical of the 911 scene," Chris laughs. "Hardly anybody wanted these cars, now everyone is clamouring to get hold of one. Buy wisely, but do so before it's too late. The price of ownership is only going one way."