Porsche 997.2 GT3 ultimate guide
The launch of the 991 version in 2013 marked the latest in a line of GT3-badged Neunelfers stretching back to the 996. The Mezger engine had gone and not everyone was happy with the PDK-only transmission but it was as beguiling to own and drive as ever.
However, the car we’re interested in here, the second-generation 997 model, is considered by some observers to be the most accomplished of the breed.
Launched in 2009 at the Geneva Motor Show and with a reassuringly high £82,000 price tag, it boasted more power and torque than the Gen1 GT3 and some very impressive performance numbers, including a 0-62mph sprint cut down to 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 194mph.
That extra shove came courtesy of a new 3.8-litre motor – the last of the Mezger units – that produced 435bhp at 7,900rpm and 430Nm of torque at 6,250rpm, improvements of 20bhp and 25Nm respectively compared to the first-generation model.
Forged aluminium pistons and titanium connecting rods were part of a tasty specification that included VarioCam for inlet and exhaust cams, dry-sump lubrication with an oil-to-water heat exchanger and the £800 option of dynamic engine mounts.
It’s an immensely strong unit that, unless used for pounding endlessly around the Nordschleife, shouldn’t give any problems. Clearly, any example you find should have been meticulously maintained so any gaps in the service history should ring alarm bells.
Unless you’re certain of previous usage, then it makes sense to get it checked over by an OPC or specialist, including an over-rev check to ensure it’s not spent too many hours nudging the redline.
One area worth checking is the front-mounted radiators as their position in the nose could have allowed road debris to cause damage or corrosion: examine the units and the connecting pipework for any leaks.
And ensure that the exhaust system is healthy, as the standard Sports item costs £3,300 in parts alone should replacement be needed. The six-speed manual gearbox is equally tough and more than capable of handling the occasional circuit foray.
To read our Porsche 997.2 GT3 buyer’s guide in full, pick up Total 911 issue 139 in store today. Alternatively, order your copy online for home delivery, or download it straight to your digital device now.
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