996 GT3 (second-gen): Market Watch

Perhaps better sorted and slightly more numerous this could be the driver's 996 GT3

"Probably a better car than the original, though first-gen 996 owners won't thank me for saying it!" And so the debate begins. Phil of Philip Raby Porsche believes the later 996 is a better GT3, as does Chris Harris for that matter too. For starters, the second-gen's peak power output is generally believed to be more consistent than the first-gen's. Also, though firmer springs and dampers made it less supple than the earlier car, the second-gen's suspension tweaks improved its handling noticeably.

Faster and improved handling but more common

We come back to the rarity issue again when values of the second-gen 996 GT3s are discussed. With twice as many (246 plays 103) UK cars when compared to the first-gen, they simply aren't as elusive and don't hold that coveted title of being the first GT3. If such things don't bother you (and they probably shouldn't), the second-gen 996 GT3 looks great value at around £40,000 now.

Though this car brought the PCCB carbon-ceramic option to the GT3, few are available because buyers were wary of the technology at the time. Moreover, it's not unknown for PCCB-equipped cars to have a steel rotor swap from buyers scared by the costs of replacing the composite discs if damaged.

Buy if: It's a great driver's car that you want, without the compromises of an RS and for the price of a new Boxster.
Don't buy if: Classic eligibility is a criteria. The second-gen cars remain in the shadows of the first GT3 to many, regardless of its innate ability.
We found:2003 Porsche 911 GT3 Comfort 22,000 miles, full OPC service history, two owners - £41,850

Price Guide -
Poor: <£35,000
Good: £40,000
A1: £50,000

Introduction
996 GT3 (1999-2000)
996 GT3 (2003-2005)
996 GT3 RS (2003-2005)
997 GT3 (2006-2008)
997 GT3 RS (2006-2008)
997 GT3 (2009-2012)
997 GT3 RS (2009-2011)
997 GT3 RS 4.0 (2011)