EDITOR’S NOTE: This a post written by 911 NATION contributor Ivar, the proud owner of a 2002 Porsche 996 GT2. Before we get into what he thinks and his reasons for thinking it, we want to encourage all those who read this post to comment on how they feel about the question at hand. Please see comments section below in order to do so. We love hearing from all our readers. That is precisely why we had the idea for 911 Nation in the first place. So let’s get right to it.
The 996 version of the 911 is much maligned these days. Today, the 997 models are admired as they represent the latest in Porsche technology, innovation and performance. They are very beautiful as well. Clean, simple lines and attractive interiors lead to a Porsche the most hardened purist can admire and love, and most importantly OWN or desire to own. 997s keep driving Porsche sales, holding up well even in the recent economic turmoil. The 993 911s are also very much sought after, and are rising in value with time. Ah, the mighty 993, the last of the air cooled Porsches, the 911 that saved the brand, the model with the simple but beautiful lines and superlative performance. Lucky those that own 993 Turbos, lucky indeed if they were smart enough to hold on to them and care for them well. Yes, indeed, the 993 deserves its status and its prestige, reflected well in their values in the secondary market today.
Then, …., what about the 996 911s. Well, in its heyday, they were important, too. The first of the water cooled 911s. Breakthroughs in power and performance. Are 996 destined to become as sought after as the 993s some day? Ugh, but what about those hideous “broken egg†headlights!!! How could it ever be considered a classic? And then, there is the maligned dashboard. Are those the reasons why the 996s continue to drop in value like there’s no end coming? Conventional wisdom today says that the 996 will never be a classic, a portion of Porsche history that deserves to be forgotten.
Well, I beg to differ. I hold the opinion that in spite of those ugly headlamps, the 996 911 will come to be considered as a breakthrough design for Porsche. The switch to water cooled engines laid the foundation for the performance increases we continue to see in the 997. The refinement of the AWD in the 4S and Turbo models are also important milestones. The introduction of PSM. The introduction of the PCCB ceramic brakes in the GT2s and as an option on Turbos and GT3s. The fine navigation system available as an option in Carrera models and standard in the Turbo. Very important innovations that have continued to be key features in 997 models. 996s sold very well and continued to bring Porsche the profitability it first found with the 993 and continued to build with the introduction of the Boxster in 1997. The success of this model led to the financial strength that made Porsche the most admired and successful car company in the world…. until it was squandered by financial speculation in the failed attempt to take over VW (in fairness to Dr. Wiedeking, when they undertook that adventure, who could have predicted the financial crisis of 2008?).
However, in spite of all the success the 996 911 brought to Porsche, as a realist I recognize that it will still take some time for the 996 to find its rightful place in the hearts of Porschephiles and collectors….. except for the GT2 and the GT3 models. Now there you have virtually certain classics, and soon to be recognized.
Why do I believe that 996 GT2s and GT3s will soon bask in the glory of Porsche classic designs?
First, they are outstanding driver’s cars. And when I say driver’s cars, I mean REAL DRIVERS. For the faint of heart they are not. For those seeking a hot sports car with the modern comforts of today’s cars they are not. For picking up pizza or groceries, they are not. For taking your bride to a fine dinner, they are not. For status seekers, they are not. No, these cars are only for the hard core citizens of 911 Nation. Light in weight, stiff in suspension, lacking in some of the creature comfort options offered in the 4S and the Turbo such as no sun roof, no sound proofing (all to save weight), the REAL DIFFERENCE is that these track cars for the street were the last of the real driver’s cars manufactured by Porsche. Yes indeed, the very last of a kind.
Slide into the driver’s seat of a 996 GT2 or a GT3 and you are all on your own. Yes, you are all alone. Alone by your lonesome. Alone without PSM, alone without AWD, alone with the car and with your driving skills. Rear wheel drive, more power (380 hp in the GT3 and 460 in the twin turbo GT2) and only ABS brakes to help bail you out of a jam. Their supreme suspensions and set-up offer tremendous performance. But you know you are on your own. You better get to know your car. You better train to use it at the limit (if you dare push them that far).
If the above facts alone don’t make them a classic, then factor in that they were manufactured in very low numbers. At $99,000, the 996 GT3 was a steal. A superlative value, well below the Turbo and even below the Carrera 4S. At a 50% premium above the GT3, the 996 GT2 was also good value, especially when you consider what you are getting in return, a car that could go straight into racing with very few modifications. I consider myself one lucky driver to own a 2002 GT2. I attest that it is so delightful to take its controls, a dream come true. More than once I have pushed it a bit beyond my ability, and the rear end has begun to slide, only to correct itself with a simple adjustment of the steering wheel. What stability. Who needs PSM, PASM or Traction Control with such a great car in your hands? You don’t, I attest. You don’t need the assistance. And in return, you get the satisfaction, the UNLIMITED satisfaction of knowing that you are driving one special machine.
With five years in our family, ours is one GT2 that will never hit the market. We are going to enjoy our classic in the making and then pass it on to the next generation, then to the next. A family heirloom, to be admired, to enjoy driving as it should be, as the last of a kind. The last of the real driver’s cars made by Porsche. I rest my case. Watch a classic car in the making every time you lay eyes on one of the best models ever made by Porsche, the 996 GT2 and GT3. And if you can, buy one in the secondary market. They are offered at great prices these days. Only one requirement: only real drivers need apply.
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{ 21 comments… read them below or add one }
Brilliant post! Great insight that brings new perspective to a very under appreciated 911 model.
And who said that looks are everything? Perhaps not in this case…
Ivar,
We commend you on your post and speaking your mind. As you state, the 996 holds a special and prominent place in the history of Porsche, but not necessarily for the right reasons. For most “purists” the 996 marked the end of Porsche as it always was and should be; air-cooled. For others, the body design changes were enough to send them running.
From a pure driving standpoint, the 996 GT variants, are as you mentioned, exquisite. However, I think it takes much more than performance ability to create a true classic and one of the most important considerations is aesthetic appeal. Unfortunately, regardless of its performance capabilities, the 996 will always be the “ugly duckling” amongst all the other 911 swans.
The good news is that means values will continue to stay low and one of the more performance oriented Porsches ever built will continue to be obtainable for many years to come.
It’s the headlights, isn’t it? What we’re they thinking? Oh yeah, and that old adage about air-cooled engines, which never seems to go away (rightfully so). That is going to be a tough one for all of us to get over indeed, if we ever really do. I agree that in order to be a true classic, a car has to bring the full package; the perfect combination of pure performance excellence and that aesthetic ‘je ne sais quoi’ we never know is possible until we see it. That is where the 996 falls short and why it has been ostracized.
It’s a tough call gentlemen, and a great debate to have. Let’s hope others share their thoughts.
Purist,
Thanks for your comment. I can’t say that I disagree with you completely. It will take time for the 996 GT2 and GT3 to be considered classics. But I insist that classics they will be. How do you think people felt about the 356 in 1964 when the 911 was introduced? If the same question had been posed to Porsche enthusiasts back then about the 356, I assure you that the 911′s reception was so overwhelmingly positive, that in the minds of most, the 356 was destined to oblivion.
Yet, time rescued the 356 and made it a superstar again. The same will happen to the 996 GT2 and GT3. First, we must not underestimate the move from air-cooled engines to water-cooled. I understand your nostalgic clinging to the “purity” of the air-cooled engines. After all, Ferry Porsche himself chose them, and before him, his father Ferdinand had also chosen them for his designs. Yet, it was the switch to water-cooled that enabled Porsche to continue pushing the envelope in power and performance. If they had stuck with the air-cooled engines, Porsche would not be enjoying the success it has enjoyed in sales and prestige since the introduction of the 996 as the succesor to the 993. Without that switch in engine design, Porsche would have been left behind by Ferrari, Corvettes, Vipers, and even BMW M3s and Benz AMGs and Audi RSs in the performance area, and it would have begun to lose ground to them in sales and prestige.
So, in spite of the historical slight to you purists, Porsche was correct in switching powertrains.
The other point that virtually assures classic status for these models, and sooner than you believe, is the purity of its drivetrain. No PSM, no PASM, no Traction Control, no Sport button, NOTHING. Just you and your car. Now, as a purist, you can truly appreciate that these are the last two PURE driving cars made by Porsche. 997 GT3s and GT2s all have PSM, PASM, Traction Control and Sport buttons. Even if you turn them off, they can be triggered by the computer in a jam. In the 996 GT2 and GT3 the only one to bail you out is your experience. Hard core drivers will always appreciate that lack of intrusion by technology.
Purist, I will bet you a pair of Porsche cuff links that within five years these 996 models will begin to increase in price again. Until then, well, I may be in the market in the near future for a 996 GT3 and maybe even a second GT2 to take advantage of the bargains! Thanks for you comment. I will smile and wave when I pass you in your 993 on the track in my GT2. Ivar
Great conversation guys. Would love to see the results of that bet…;)
Ivar, enjoyed your post very much. As former 4-yr owner of an 04 GT3, i can agree on every point mentioned. Look back in time. Can anyone remember an ugly 911? Each one belongs to a precise place in time, and they all are unique and relevant in history. The 996 will go in history as the only turn of the century 911, at least for a long time. Also one of the most if not THE most successful 911 in the history of GT racing. I’m very privileged to haber put some serious miles on mine, including pizza, work, mountain rallies, Walgreens, PCA meets in Puerto Rico, and Sebring. Lucky sons of yours!
Yes, HansGT3, my three sons are indeed lucky. They have not only driven our GT2 in rallies and in the autobahn, and in great alpine roads, but all three of them have driven it faster than I on the autobahn, one of them pushing it all the way to 197 mph, while I have lingered at 160 mph. And, they will inherit it!! But for that, they will have to wait a long time!!
Good luck raising your young children for now, as you go Porsche-less in favor of their education and to allow the time to enjoy them and your wife. Ah, life’s priorities… One day, they will be old enough to allow your return to owning Porsches, and you will be very welcome back to our adventurous group. See you in a rally in France or Germany in hopefully not too many years in the future. Maybe I will own a few of these future 996 classics by then!!
Just remember, buy your replacement 996 GT3 BEFORE it becomes a classic. So, don’t wati too long!! And start bringing your son to ALMS races soon. He will get you permission from your wife to buy that GT3 earlier than you think today!!
The 996 is the best driving 911 ever. I know I would get some argument there, but having driven one as my daily driver for 4 years, I am thoroughly convinced. All of the other 911s I’ve owned never became my daily driver, as much as I might have liked them. The GT series cars go several steps forward in many areas, but the overall mass production of all Porsches from 1997 on will keep the marquee from producing any real classics post 993 for decades to come. At some point, perhaps 25 or 30 years from now a well cared for GT3 or GT2 may be considered a classic car, but at the rate we are heading down the road to 40 MPG cars I just don’t see it happening.
What ever Porsche comes up with in the next 10 years to get them over the hump of CAFE standards, while maintaining the Porsche engineering and performance excellence will become classic long before our first truly super car daily drivers. Today, one can buy a 450 HP GT2 in 996 guise for the price of a new Infiniiti G37. I don’t believe that is going to change for a long time. They made way too many of them.
@Steve,
Pardon the delay in posting your comment. For some mysterious reason it was stored away in the spam folder and we overlooked it. Thanks for the stopping by and offering some very insightful comments on the future legacy of the 996 GTs. You make a very good point that conditions today in terms of new standards being intorduced will force makers like Porsche to work some magic that may trump the greatness of the 996s. We’ll see how things play out. Thanks again for stopping by. Please do so again.
Porschealist,
You should research how many races 996 GT3 Cups and RSRs have won. I agree with HansGT3 that its bound to be a higher number than any other Porsche in history.
Enjoyed this article so much. Among my 8 porsches (930, 964 speedster, 996 GT2 CS, 997, Cayenne,,etc), 996 GT2 CS is the best Porsche. it is a “machine”. if I need a comfort daily car, I should go for MB or Hyundai. There are very few cars in the world which can give you “pure joy between just car and you” and GT2 CS is just one of them and maybe the best of them.
Ugly Headlamp? I don’t think so. When I just get to know “Porsche Life” with 997, I thought so too but, after 8 Porsches I have owned and experienced every model since 2003, the Headlamp is indeed unique and will be main reason to be sought after in near future. take a look at 996GT1. The only 911 which has so unique headlamp!
thanks again and wish the best to your family!
happy new year!
-Jimi Jung,
President for 2007-2009,
Current Honorary President,
Porsche Club Korea
Dear PCK_Jimi,
Happy New Year to you as well and thanks very much for your comment!
This is definitely one of our best posts to date. Great to feel the enthusiasm coming all the way from Korea. In fact, this is not the first time, since we have participated in a Ruf Rally where there were two silver 996 GT2 cars that were owned and flown in via airplane to Germany by two South Korean gentlemen, who participated among the 40 or so cars that year (mid-2000′s). It was impressive to see these twin GT2 cars burn through the Germany countryside roads! I myself have driven a 996 GT2 on the track (Anneaux du Rhine), the Autobahn, and on German and Italian (near Cortina D’Ampezzo) back roads and I can attest to the fact that there is nothing like it! Exhilarating experience no doubt!
You definitely make a compelling argument about how the headlamp will become a unique and desirable feature in the future.
All the best,
Giancarlo Pietri
Loved reading this. I agree, the ‘headlamp is indeed unique and will be main reason to be sought after in near future.’ The car was such a leap from the 993′s. More power, better handling, improved aerodynamics, better ergonomics and it was still raw. Really – it was a breakthrough (for) Porsche. I think the car is amazing value for the money. However, by mixing up parts with the Boxster, it really cheapened the experience. This was the big mistake in my mind. You want your 996 to look like a 911, not a Boxster. Subpar interior quality with other cars in its league didn’t help either. It feels like the money crunchers at Porsche were all about the bottomline on this car and it showed. A commodified Porsche – this is what I think lingers in the minds of the Porsche purists.
Having said that, I love mine and I love the lights. It shows how German design is always unique and ahead of the curve. Thanks everyone.
Byron Dowler / Vancouver, Canada
You just made me very proud to own a 996 GT2. Also a 2002. Not that I needed to be reminded what an awesome car it is. Everytime I climb in the drivers seat I am reminded of that. Mine will also never be for sale. It’s going straight to my son when he graduates medical school.
What a great post.
I bought my 2002 GT2 in the US a year ago, it had only 10k miles on it – I feel it was a bargain coming with full Porsche coverage.
When I imported it into Switzerland I got it on the road without too much trouble.
Only thing I did to it was remove the US bumpers, change the side indicators to European units and buy an insanly priced lithium battery (as a tech fan I could easily justify the money to save 20kg). Oh – and a sports exhaust for proper sound (kept the original one, of course).
When I’m about to go for a drive on some back-country/alpine roads I put my driving shoes on. I feel the excitement in my mouth when I approach the car and I know I’m in for a treat and a challenge.
The feeling that I am really on my own is always present – I handle the car with utmost respect, all senses fully awake. I will never stop enjoying it or learning more about the car when driving it.
I live in Zuerich where almost every banker seems to drive a specced up 997 – in this environment the occasional sight of a 996 with its distinctive headlights is becoming more and more special. I notice that to me the 996 shape seems to grow and get better and better with time.
Not the mention my all business 6GT2 – it moves like a wolf along the 997 sheep.
Enjoy your Porsches.
Hans
As to Byron Dowler,
I am glad you enjoyed the post, and thanks for reading it and commenting. I have to disagree with you about the Boxster, though. Porsche shares many parts from the doors forward between models to save on costs and tooling, a practice that is briliant for efficiency and for the profitability of the company, which insures its competitiveness and insures they can keep producing great cars for us.
Additionally, I disagree with putting down the Boxster. It is a great car. Not only does it have gorgeous lines, but it handles beautifully. As a mid-engine car, it is more at home in the twisty part of a road and on tracks than any 911. Don’t knock the Boxster. It deserves the admiration of every Porsche fanatic. It leads the roadster class in comparison test after comparison test, year after year, car magazine after car magazine. Top of the class, and deservedly so! The Boxster makes Porsche look great as a company and has earned its place on Porsche’s line-up of models.
If you still doubt me, try driving a Boxster S in an autocross or on a track. You won’t be disappointed.
Also, don’t knock Porsche too much for the interiors. We get great cars for the price, cars that compare in driving experience (or exceed by far depending on the model) with much more expensive automobiles. And the 911 Turbo and Carrera 4S models match the interior appointments of those more expensive cars (and add weight, which is why you won’t find those frills in the GT2 and GT3 models). Enjoy your 996.
My best,
Ivar
@Jesse Jimenez & CH Hans,
Thank you both for your comments. Now, here we have two gentlemen who KNOW, REALLY KNOW what I am writing about. Both proud owners of 2002 GT2s. Hans tells us about the bargain he was able to achieve by buying it last year, and I couldn’t agree more. I’m sure it was well below half the price of a new 997 GT2. Prices of both the 996 GT2 and the GT3 continue to come down yearly, and low mileage cars are available. Compare those prices to those of new 997 GT2s and GT3s and the difference is abysmal. Yet, you may actually be getting a better car in the 996s since they weigh less, and will challenge you more by lacking the PASM, PSM and sport buttons. No PDK for us!!!
Jesse: I love the fact that your GT2 will be handed down to your son. I have three sons, how will they handle the car? They’re gonna have to create a cooperative to share it!! Maybe I need to do it for them, and lay down the rules of the game.
Hans: I admire your respect for the car, which I share. It is that respect, and the full awareness of the senses that you mention that will keep us out of trouble!! I also loved your comment about the fully optioned 997s in Zürich owned by the city’s bankers. Secure in their AWD, comfy in their full leather interiors and fancy radios and speaker systems, they probably look down on your car as you zip by, not knowing the grave mistake they are making. Your wolf can easily eat their lamb anyday, anytime, anywhere!!! Too bad your autobahns have strictly enforced speed limits. You are going to have to pass them on Switzerland’s great mountain roads!!!! Thankfully for you, the German autobahns are a short drive away, and Nürburgring is not far away!!
In the 996 GT2 and GT3 you have ONE car, and it is a dedicated street legal track car. ONE SERIOUS MACHINE. Why do you think they tend to have low mileage? No daily drivers there!! The 997 GT2s and GT3s are really two cars: one tamer car for city use, and the aggressive tiger that awakens when you press all the right (sport) buttons.
I have nothing against the 997 GT2s and GT3s. In fact, I admire them deeply and would love to own them. In due time, I may have that privilege. But that would never be at the expense of the 996 GT2 that I own. And it would be with awareness of the compromises made in the guise of “technological advances”.
Jesse and Hans, here’s to sharing the road some day!
Ivar
PS What color are your cars?
@Ivar
You seem to have good knowledge of Swiss Roads. Yes, the Autobahn is restricted here and Police is vigilant – but luckily they can not be everywhere and the country and mountain roads compensate you quite well.
My car is red. I was a little uncertain about it at first when I thougt about buying – I am usually not too much into red cars. But now I must say that red suits the 6GT2 extraordinarily well. There are some nice Porsche promo pictures with a GT2 in red (pity I can’t attach them here).
After all – if you drive an insane car it might just as well be in an insane colour.
All the best.
Hans
@CH_Hans
A RED GT2!! Wow! Fantastic!! Red is a great color. My favorite color for Porsches, with Speed Yellow a close second. I am envious. Mine is silver. Another great color for the 996 GT2 and for all Porsches, but far more common than red.
One has to love your line: insane colour for an insane car!!! Not to mention the insane driver!! A perfect trifecta!!
Yes, I do know your roads, and your wonderful city. I’ve started or ended many a trip to Europe in Zürich due to the convenience of the airport and its many flights to choose from. I also know Bülach and a certain well known Swiss tuner there, and one of the best antique car dealers in the world who is based in your city. And let’s not forget one of the best city hotels in Europe, the Baur au Lac, with its high ceilings in its fabulous rooms. There’s much to love about Zürich for car guys!
Hans, my friend, you are one lucky person to own our favorite car in that part of the world. Every weekend your toughest decision must be in which direction to head to get to the best roads in the world! Hmm, north, east, south, or is it going to be west today….., the Black Forest or Passo dello Stelvio? Except, of course, during your long winter. But driving season is almost here for 2011!! Happy days are here again!
Who knows, some day we might run into each other. My Silver 996 GT2 is not far away in Deutschland!
Warm regards,
Ivar
@Ivar
You sure know your way around Zürich. Of course I also know the Tuner you’re speaking about – but I’m not sure which classic car dealer you might mean. Zuerich is a good place for car guys – true – one thing we miss dearly in Switzerland however is a track. Dijon in France is closest and that’s a 3.30h drive (maybe that’s not far by US standards…).
If you fancy a beer and a good drive with some Porsche guys (maybe the other way round) drop me a mail when you are around. You find me as ‘HansCH’ on rennlist.com.
All the best.
Hans
great to find this post- I just purchased a 2002 GT2 with very low miles to replace my 2002 carrera (which I ordered with no PSM) and so far love the car. It has become so difficult to find cars without the annoying electronic stability programs (and even a manual gearbox in some cases) so finding a 996 GT2 or GT3 seem to be some of the few choices which offer a proper driving experience and can still keep up with some of the latest models. For me price was not an option and still chose the raw 996 GT2 to a 996 turbo or 997 turbo. The 996 headlights go very well with its sleek shape and I like that the front has a clean design as opposed to the 997 LED DRL lights which look somewhat out of place together with the retro oval headlights and even as an afterthought to an otherwise beautiful design.