996.1 GT3

“The first-generation 996 is the only GT3 not to have a Rennsport variant sitting above it”

Put simply, the 996.1 GT3 is the start of a legend. As Porsche switched to water-cooling just before the start of the millennium, Weissach evolved its road-biased motorsports cars by offering a 911 GT3 for the first time, it a homologation requirement to allow Porsche to compete in the GT3 Class in International Sports Car Racing. As a result, the 996.1 GT3 showcased for the first time traits we now deem typical of the GT3 repertoire, such as a fixed rear wing, deletion of rear seats, a more focused chassis and a brilliantly direct steer – not to mention a motorsport-derived flat six.

Needless to say, the 996.1 GT3 is a special car. Retaining its hallowed Mezger engine (doing away with that IMS bearing blighting the reputation of its Carrera cousins) with a lofty redline north of 8,000rpm, the first-generation 996 is also the only GT3 not to have a Rennsport variant sitting above it. On top of that, it’s a rare bird – there are only 17 in right-hand drive currently in the UK – so whether you’re in the market for investment purposes or just bragging rights, this should be an early point of call.

However, do your research on the market first: “There are two submarkets within the GT3 sphere,” says Hexagon’s Jonathan Franklin. “There are lower-mileage cars which appeal to collectors, then there are the cars which have been used as they were designed. There is a minor gulf in prices between the two, so make sure you don’t get caught out paying collector-grade money for a car that’s racked up the miles on track.”

Why you Should buy The first of the 911 GT3 legend and the only example with no RS variant ahead of it.

WATCH out for Unscrupulous accident damage repair – these are track cars and their historically low residues means contact with tyre walls and subsequent bodge jobs aren’t uncommon.

Price now £55,000+