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Porsche 911

2170 messages,  Last post on Mar 20, 2013 at 9:25 PM

You are in the Porsche 911 Forum.

What is this discussion about? Porsche 911, Porsche Carrera GT, Coupe, Convertible

Messages Page 109 of 218

#1076 of 2170 Re: Saw a GT3 and two GT3RSs yesterday [amhjms] by redsoxgirl

Oct 28, 2006 (6:26 am)

Replying to: amhjms (Oct 28, 2006 1:14 am)
My brother is a huge fan of the 997 GT3, having had the opportunity to drive one at the Porsche track in Germany back in early September. I do not think they have yet made it to the US - at least not to my dealer.
 
I drove a 996 GT3 at one of the performance driving schools in 2004 and also loved it. On a track. It would not be a car I would want to run over city streets. And, as far as I know, the 997 GT3 will NOT have the PASM adjustable suspension that the C2S or Turbo have. The GT3 goes out of it's way to save weight and the PASM is considered unneccessary in a track car.
 
If you really want a weekend car that you can take to the track, the GT3 is hard to beat. RWD, lightest weight 911, 8,000+ rpm redline, etc. But, not to sound condescending, would you be buying a GT3 because you really want to become an accomplished amateur track driver or simply because you want the unique look? My brother would argue that anyone considering a GT3 should budget at least $15k+ for Porsche (or Skip Barber) driving schools through the advanced level, and have the time to go to a track and really use and enjoy the car's capabilities. A GT3 that is used only for casual weekend winery tours is viewed by serious Porsche enthusiasts as negative statement on the owner (i.e. "poseur") and a waste of a great car. Even Jay Leno knows how to drive his Carerra GT.
 
Also, I'm not sure why you would consider the C2S, C4S and GT3, but not the Turbo. If you do like lighter weight and handling of RWD, knock out the heavier, more expensive and slower AWD C4S. The C2S is the closest comparison to the GT3 and, with the PASM set on "sport" gives you a very nice track experience, although much more civilized than the GT3.
 
Good luck.

#1077 of 2170 Re: Need Advice on options for 911 turbo by amerikanisch

Oct 28, 2006 (9:01 pm)

Replying to: hotrod88 (Jul 27, 2006 4:49 am)
b> Can anyone help?
  We have an appointment to order a new Porsche 911 turbo on Monday and the list of options is driving my wife bonkers. I think we are going to order Silver exterior (2 choices- the GT silver is an extra $2300) but cannot decide between solid black or grey/black interior. Also the carbon fiber and aluminum interior touches may be more sporty but wood accents always made a sports car look more luxurious to us. Still, the new matt finish wood is not the glossy burlwood that makes the Mercedes SL 600 look so rich.
 The sport chronometer and tiptronic automatic are no brainers but I doubt that the upgraded PCCB brakes will hold their value unless I sell to a race car driver. If the expensive brakes lasted 5 X longer than the stock brakes, they might be worth it. We plan to drive the wheels off the car and keep it ten years, but you never know.
 Basically we are looking to limit the options and get a lot of "bang for the buck" which is difficult because the options are so expensive. The stock interior doesn't look bad, but I was thinking about perhaps a solid black interior and going with some silver exterior color accents, such as the air vents and perhaps a wood streering wheel (but which wood? There are 2.) and a wood accept on the handbreak/ shifter knob and dash. I think the silver color with the black contrast is striking and that is why I am thinking solid black interior rather than two tone. Black interior, interior silver accents matching the exterior (just a few) and the wooden touches on the steering wheel / dash and brake handle/ shifter knob. A BIG CONSIDERATION will be possible resale value so we do not want to "ruin" the car. I am in my fiftes and I imagine a buyer of such an expensive car might be middle age and have similar tastes (wood vs carbon fiber) The silver accents will look much like the aluninum look and will be cheaper so we are covered there. Any advice from an "expert"?>

#1078 of 2170 Re: Saw a GT3 and two GT3RSs yesterday [redsoxgirl] by amhjms

Oct 28, 2006 (10:51 pm)

Replying to: redsoxgirl (Oct 28, 2006 6:26 am)
Redsoxgirl,
 
Thanks for the insights and reply. I've read several of your posts and have imagined (nothing creepy, just curious) you must be quite an interesting lady (and person in general) between your knowledge/ love of cars and obvious breadth of live experiences. This is meant as a sincere compliment and hopefully reads like one.
 
My interest in the GT3 is not as a pure track car, although over the years I'll certainly consider taking in there, especially as my son ages and it becomes an activity he and I can share. However, I'm doubtful that it would become anywhere near the primary use of the car. My interest in the car is definitely not, however, purely due to it's looks. I'd say the interest is a mix between my appreciation for the uniqueness of a GT3, a deep appreciation for the technology in the car and to a degree a belief that the car would actually hold its value better for both of these reasons (i.e. slightly more cost upfront would lead to less depreciation -- I'm an accountant so can't help but have this as part of the equation). This said, before I'll agree I should accept a lot of criticism for "waste(wasting) a great car" I'll propose that most Porsches are capable of significantly more than what 80% (or more) of their owners ever subject them too...I'm sure only a few ever make it to the track. Jay Leno and others have incredible financial resources...if I was in the same situation I'd likely go further down the road, but I think it seems a little extreme to me to suggest unless I can, I also shouldn't spend $10 k more on a particular model of car.
 
I'm guessing that Porsche is starting to see the market for folks like me as the US-model GT3 is now showing PASM and Sunroof as standard options and making others such as navigation available as options. Perhaps the GT3RS is now meant to fill the niche for primary track-use cars (i.e. what the old GT3 filled, although I think there was also a 996 GT3RS)? Of course, this could also mean some of the uniqueness of the GT3 will be lost, which indeed would be unfortunate.
 
Anyway, I don't mean to start a debate in the least, but providing a POV. I'm definitely a Porsche enthusiast (lifelong, started when my Dad had a 914 and we did "cookies" in the snow in the local high school parking lot) and am looking to fill my dream to have a 911 in the garage that I eventually pass along to one of my kids to fuel their love of the same (I actually bought the Boxster I drive now from my dad). I want to convince myself that the car I buy is the one I'll be most excited about for the longest period of time. I'm guessing people who bought 911 RS 2.7 cars in the early seventies and still have them are extremely thankful for their model selection. My Godfather actually had one which I rode in when I was 16. I still recall how special it felt, even when it was 14 years old and looked quite old-fashioned compared to the 911 slope-noses that were popular at the time he took me for a ride.
 
Lastly, your point on the C2S vs. C4S is a very good one. I'll have to beg the dealers to let me drive both to ensure I get the 2 vs. 4 WD decision right. I don't want the car to feel over-done so this is really important. My lack of interest in the Turbo simply surrounds my belief that these cars would likely have significant additional costs (purchase costs, insurance, depreciation and maintenance) for performance I don't really need and for a car I don't see as particularly unique. While the GT3 has additional performance (which I don't need either per my admission above), it seemingly comes at little incremental cost and is a model I find quite unique.
 
Anyway, thanks again for the insights and Jack (my son) and I will look for you when we finally make it to the track!

#1079 of 2170 Re: Need Advice on options for 911 turbo [amerikanisch] by amhjms

Oct 28, 2006 (11:19 pm)

Replying to: amerikanisch (Oct 28, 2006 9:01 pm)
Amerikanisch,
 
I'm a 35 year-old and have a Speed Yellow and Black leather Boxster with silver accents, although the accents are limited...I think too much can look a bit boyracer. I.e. the rollbar hoops and door armrests are still black. I have been a Porsche enthusiast for a long time and have seen a ton over my years. Not sure if this makes me an expert or not. Your questions are very much opinion-oriented in my opinion. As you know very well, especially if you plan to drive the car for a long time, the most important opinion is, far and away, yours.
 
I've seen pictures of a two-tone interior black/ silver interior and think they look great. This said, I love my black seats as they have held up very well for seven years, I think silver would start to look a bit dirty and could show more stains, wear, etc.
 
In my opinion, while I generally like wood in luxury cars and most SUVs, I don't think it looks right in modern Porsches. I also have the opinon that carbon fiber is a bit of a trend material, as is silver to a degree, and could start to make the car look a bit dated at some point. At first carbon fiber was considered extremely high-tech, but now that it is used for design in many things including lower end cars, I see the trend could be ending in high end cars unless used for function (i.e. a lot of places in the Carrera GT).
 
My honest opinion is that you need to be really careful to choose one accent material (i.e. carbon, wood or silver) and stick to it as closely as possible. I would shy away from two accents in, even just a few, as the few might look out of place (as if the original pieces broke and were replaced) and the overall look could be a bit busy. Additionally, I'd guess a future buyer might be okay with a relatively plain vehicle but to find someone to buy a wood and silver accent car would require finding a person who liked both and liked them together.
 
Anyway, since you plan to keep the car a long time I highly recommend making the car suited well to your taste and where you think they'll be for the longest time. Porsches are relatively modular cars, so I can imagine you could change out pieces at a later point if you decided something didn't come out as you wanted. Perhaps this takes some pressure off? The nice thing about Porsche options being so expensive upfront is that changes down the road might even be cheaper (i.e. sports exhausts for example).
 
Anyway, I hope one persons opinion doesn't just add to the confusion.
 
Enjoy your Turbo!

#1080 of 2170 Re: Need Advice on options for 911 turbo [amhjms] by amerikanisch

Oct 29, 2006 (1:06 am)

Replying to: amhjms (Oct 28, 2006 11:19 pm)

#1081 of 2170 Thanks for your imput by amerikanisch

Oct 29, 2006 (1:23 am)

Amhjms,
 
 Thank you for taking the time to respond in such a thorough manner.
  To clarify, the leather interior we are considering in our Turbo is all black or a black/grey two-tone. The silver would be done on accents such as the louvers on the vents and other subtle places. This would save money as the silver exterior color is similar to the aluminum look which is $2700 for the package while exterior silver color looks somewhat similar and is only $900 for the same places as the $2700 package. I think you are right about mixing and matching too many trim materials but the porsche manual suggested this- for entreprenarial reasons no doubt. I do not have to add any cosmetic features but if I can do something that markedly improves the look of the cockpit, I would consider it as long as the expense was mot too great. In my opinion, the carbon fiber as well as the aluminum look are rather cheap-looking. That is why I was considering wood- to give the Porsche more of a luxury appeal. I may not even ,like the new matt finish wood and I would have to actually see it before ordering.
 Thanks again and any other opinion would be greatly appreciated and fully considered.

#1082 of 2170 997TT specifications by w210

Oct 29, 2006 (2:38 am)

I am in a similar situation, wanted the biggest bang for the money spent.
 
Went arctic silver with solid black interior. I find GT silver a little too pink for my taste. Regarding the interior, grey/black two tone is nice but I prefer black carpet over grey - easier to maintain, nicer contrast against the silver.
 
Went tiptronic and regular brakes. PCCB not worth it for me who does't track.
 
Stayed away from all cosmetic options.
 
The only exception was the aluminum look multi-function steering weel as regular leather multi-function steering wheel does not feel very good to my hands.
 
The wheel actually goes very well with the silver exterior.
 
Lots of pictures we had a meet earlier this month:
 
http://www.rennteam.com/showflat.php?Cat=0&Board=997turbo&Number=281913&page=0&f- part=all

#1083 of 2170 Re: Need Advice on options for 911 turbo [amerikanisch] by spiritinthesky

Oct 29, 2006 (6:27 am)

Replying to: amerikanisch (Oct 28, 2006 9:01 pm)
I just took delivery of a 997 Turbo, Metior Grey/ Blck Full Leather.
 
First of all, if you are planning on keeping the car 10 years and driving the wheels off of it, I would get what you want and stop worrying about resale. At least don't make it a BIG CONSIDERATION. You'll be lucky to get 30% of your purchase price back on a 10 year old high mileage Turbo.
 
My opinion of some of the options you are considering:
 
- Wood looks great in a SL 600. It's a luxury car, NOT a sports car. Wood wouldn't look good in a Ferrari 430. In my opinion, it looks out of place in the 911, especially the Turbo.
 
- Try to find examples in used cars of the two tone colors you are considering. Pictures can be deceiving. You can't really go wrong with full black leather interior, but you can end up with a funky look on some of the two tone and heavy aluminum/carbon accents.
 
- I take it the Tiptronic is a no brainer because of your wife? I posted previously that a new Turbo owner contacted me to see if I would do a swap after getting the Tiptronic on account of his wife and then disliking it. If you are going to keep the car for 10 years and are concerned about resale, you might want to ask your dealer when the DSG will be available. It's not a big deal if you like the Tiptronic, but I'd hate to have ordered a Tip only to find out I could have waited a couple of months for the DSG. I had heard the DSG would be available on Turbos by early spring, but not sure if that was a reliable source.

#1084 of 2170 Total agreement with amhjms- by hfang

Oct 29, 2006 (7:49 am)

I totally agree with you. Most of us will not have the time or the financial capacity to participate in intensive driving schools- which does not necessarily mean we are "wasting" a great vehicle like a 997 GT3. I'm also considering a GT3 in '07, especially considering that a well-equipped C2S will cost $90k, and a new GT3 about $20K more, which I think is completely justified, especially when you consider that the X51 pack costs almost as much. However, I wish that the rear wing could be "deleted"- I wonder how much Porsche would charge for that!

#1085 of 2170 911 Turbo Options by amerikanisch

Oct 29, 2006 (8:03 am)

Spirit,
 
First of all, if you are planning on keeping the car 10 years and driving the wheels off of it, I would get what you want and stop worrying about resale. At least don't make it a BIG CONSIDERATION. You'll be lucky to get 30% of your purchase price back on a 10 year old high mileage Turbo. >>
 
 I agree but if we do sell or we eventually give the car to our daughter, I would not want the interior to be too odd-looking.
  
My opinion of some of the options you are considering:
  
- Wood looks great in a SL 600. It's a luxury car, NOT a sports car. Wood wouldn't look good in a Ferrari 430. In my opinion, it looks out of place in the 911, especially the Turbo.
 
 Okay.
  
- Try to find examples in used cars of the two tone colors you are considering. Pictures can be deceiving. You can't really go wrong with full black leather interior, but you can end up with a funky look on some of the two tone and heavy aluminum/carbon accents.
 
 Good idea.
  
- I take it the Tiptronic is a no brainer because of your wife?>>
 
 Yes and she is stubborn. Believe me, she will NEVER learn how to drive a stick shift. This car is supposed to be a late Xmas present, so a stick is OUT. I will wait for the new tranny, however, if it is coming out in less than a year. Otherwise I'll take my chances with the tip.
 
 I posted previously that a new Turbo owner contacted me to see if I would do a swap after getting the Tiptronic on account of his wife and then disliking it. If you are going to keep the car for 10 years and are concerned about resale, you might want to ask your dealer when the DSG will be available. It's not a big deal if you like the Tiptronic, but I'd hate to have ordered a Tip only to find out I could have waited a couple of months for the DSG. I had heard the DSG would be available on Turbos by early spring, but not sure if that was a reliable source.
 
   I have heard estimates as high as two years. I won't wait that long as I am no spring chicken anymore. When I was in my late 20s I owned little metallic blue 914. I LOVED that car. It was my little go cart! Unfortunately, they had a propensity to develop gas leaks and burn and thus I lost my true love. I was all bummed out until I found out that I was getting a check for $8900 (replacement value). I had only paid $5700 a couple of years earlier.

Messages Page 109 of 218

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