PORSCHE 911 GT3 (991)
Our 2013 ecoty winner continues to make a strong case for itself
YOU CAN’T GO TOO FAR WRONG WITH A 911 GT3 of any generation. Each version has meticulously refined every aspect of an already-accomplished sports car to create an even more capable and fulfilling driving machine, and the 991-generation car was no different. Revealed at the Geneva motor show in 2013, the first 991 GT3 offered a substantial increase in performance over the outgoing 997 thanks to the use of rear-wheel steering, PASM adaptive dampers and a PDK dualclutch transmission as standard. While many mourned the loss of the Mezger engine, the new 3.8-litre flat-six, complete with 9000rpm red line, was certainly nothing to complain about.
With 468bhp and 324lb ft of torque, the 3.8’s outputs are shaded by those of the other cars in this guide, but the Porsche still manages to achieve a rapid 3.5sec 0-62mph sprint and a 196mph top speed. If you can stretch to it, the Gen 2 car of 2017-19 brings a revised 4-litre unit to the mix, with 493bhp, 339lb ft of torque and the option of a manual transmission.
But it’s not all about the numbers, of course: the GT3’S focus is on driver engagement as opposed to outright pace. That screaming red line, an endlessly rewarding chassis and eye-poppingly powerful brakes make the 991 version one of the greatest road cars ever and a seriously brilliant track car too. While it borrows its electrically assisted steering from the standard 911 of the era, its new tuning, plus the car’s stiffened front end and electromechanical rear-steer ensure this is a GT3 at the top of its game.
The 991 GT3 isn’t known for poor reliability, but there is one issue in particular to be aware of. Not long after the first cars hit the road, numerous owners encountered engine issues, ranging from misfires to catastrophic failures. Following an investigation, Porsche disclosed that the problems related to the use of a defective batch of valvetrain rocker arms, something that had the potential to cause significant damage elsewhere in the unit. As a result, all 785 GT3S delivered up to that point were recalled and fitted with brand new engines – these are often referred to as the ‘G6’ unit.
While complete replacement of the defective engines should mean you won’t experience any engine troubles, there have been reports of failures since. Aside from oil analysis to check for excess wear and a listen for any concerning sounds emanating from the engine bay, there’s not a whole lot you can look for prior to purchase to ensure a particular engine is strong. Fortunately Porsche still seems to be rectifying any issues under warranty for no charge, which is good for peace of mind. Opt for the more pricey 991.2 and you can avoid this concern altogether. Elsewhere, the 991 GT3 is typical Porsche, with electrical issues almost unheard of and build quality top notch.
A decade since the 991 GT3 made its debut, you can find relatively clean, low-mileage examples for just over £90,000. You’d be right in thinking that’s not much change from its original list price, but with demand far outstripping supply during its production run and Porsche providing a robust warranty, it’s no surprise they’ve held well. Stump up an additional £10,000 and cars with under 10,000 miles come into reach, with the 991.2 starting around the £130,000 mark. And as current values show, depreciation is unlikely to be a concern.