Cant believe that, I had a 04 SMG M3 for 4 years, sold it with 100,000miles, still original perfect clutch. even if it failed cost of changing it was the same (same clutch plate), just a couple of hrs extra labor for setting the actuators I suppose you could argue that a crank handle is better than a starter motor for the same reason :) seriously i could never go back to manual now, just like Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini. Putting a manual in a GT3 is like making Usain Bolt run in flip flops
PS: What I meant to say was; practically every Porsche 911 variant is more expensive than the GTR, & still out sells it (though the GTR is cheaper). So who would win the sales game, was never in question. And this is despite the fact that the two cars (even the turbo, and especially the GT3, 2) are not cross shopped nearly as much as GTR fan boys believe. The GT3, 2, and Turbo, are being cross shopped more with Lambo's and Ferrari's, than with GTR's. All respect to the GTR, nonetheless.
You should've told him that directly. He seems like the kind of guy who appreciates being told he's great, what with his obvious pride in being able to heel-and-toe and drive like a proper man.
GT3RS extras over a "regular" GT3: - until 991, the chasis from the 4S (more width at the back) - more width at the front - big wing - less weight (no rear seats or pading, carbonate windows instead of glas) - roll cage and 5 point harness - shorter gearing and some more PS - lighter flywheel
To all you armchair car journalists commenting on how terrible it is that the new GT3 lacks a manual box: when is the last time you saw an F1 car with a clutch pedal? A manual is not the best way to cover ground quickly anymore.
Steve you are my very favourite reviewer all things Porsche. Of course I will never afford a GT3, but our 997 generation 2 is quite a nice compensation. A big thank you from the north.
I was skeptical to hear that this GT3 has the most compliant ride ever, 4-wheel steering, lack of a manual, is bigger and heavier than ever, but seeing this in action nullifies every reservation I've had. I don't doubt Sutcliffe's claim that this might be the best sports car ever. Great video.
If you wanted to know what it does then here in short: The rear wheels turn in the opposite direction than the front wheels below 80km/h, to give you a shorter wheelbase feel and thus a shorter turning circle to make it more agile. The rear wheels turn in the same direction than the front wheels above 80km/h to provide a long wheelbase feel and thus provide stability. Note that the wheels do not turn allot, but its dynamic according to how much the steering wheel is turned, traction and speed.
I meant in modern cars... The main reason those gearboxes were introduced was for the driver to have full control of the shifts in cars that are so quick. They rev so fast it's difficult to get every change absolutely spot on. Also, exactly because they're quick the driver can have both hands on the wheel and therefore better control of the car.
Did you see Harris' review of the GT3? He said that when driving on some technical roads, having a manual would almost be too much work to. On a "fun car," like a Miata or a BRZ, a manual makes the most sense, because you're having a lot of fun without going bonkers fast. But on a car that will be tracked (like GT3s usually are), paddles give you the opportunity to have both hands on the wheel when your attention is really in demand and you're trying to be fast. And it's still loads of fun.
This video does a nice job of making the car feel responsive and agile. The way it breaks traction so suddenly is amazing. The driver needs to be as fast as the car.
yeah, i saw harris' review and even he asked the question of what is the purpose of a gt3. true, a manual can't offer the performance of a dct, but the question still remains; what is more important when it comes to driving...performance numbers or visceral appeal. for some, driving is more than track times, it's the communication between the driver and the machine for those drivers, shifting and heel and toe'ing is a major part of the experience of driving. your points are valid though
Something about the stance of this thing just looks amazing. Don't know what's changed since the 997 but it just looks so aggressive....and of course it's amazing to drive it seems, to no-one's great surprise. Bravo Porsche!
I agree. Keep in mind, Chris has longer videos so he has more time to get into the technical stuff, whereas Steve usually has to wrap it up in 5-6 minutes. The two of them on the same channel would be a car-lover's Shangri-la.
I thought same way about manual gearbox. Then I changed my cayman s first gen with a gen 2 cayman s with pdk. When you have driven it once you will NEVER miss it in future!
And the Hits Keep Coming: Greg Kable, also of Autocar, called the new 2013 GT3 "One Of The All Time Greats", and said "the new one [GT3] operates, on an altogether higher plane, right up there with the Ferrari Italia for pure unadulterated dynamic excellence" He loved the car like Steve. His review was written, and can found on the web if you search for it on Rennlist, Rennteam, Autocar's sight, etc.
Here in Germany there was and still is a huge discussion about the missing manual gearbox. The most Porsche owners would never drive a Porsche without a manual shifter, so it is a trade off for them.
This car, because it doesn't have a manual box anymore, if you pull both paddles at the same time, it would give u clutch kick, basically its like a drift mode! beautiful car.
I think its officially classed as a "semi-automatic" system: gear changes are computer controlled and "automated" but with the ability for driver based manual changes by means of the paddles or shifter. The only major difference between an Semi auto and an auto is the use of clutch(es) instead of torque converter for faster shifts in lieu of increased towing capacity. Hence why i assume PDK isn't in the Cayenne.
Never was in to 911s or Porsche even, but now, seeing the 911 growing and growing I think that the Porsche coupe to have is the Cayman/Boxter- the new gen looks really good in person, nothing to be ashamed of, plus small dimensions and the RIGHT engine positioning. Wait for them to add some punch and scrub some weight out to make a next-gent Cayman R and I'm sold. But when it'd be my mone, I'd still take the 4C. Thank you
yes, its just a stripped out version with a few more horsepowers. They also released a 4.0 version which was an upgrade from the 3.8 engine giving even more power. Basically its a hardcore version of the gt3, porsche does the same with the gt2 hence, the gt2 rs...
I wasn't arguing that paddles are just as good or better. I was just being a smart-ass about the OP's fear of not having a knob to hold onto. Of course it's not the same as a manual, but my point was you still get a knob. And while I'm really tired of everyone raving about the purity of having a knob and a 3rd pedal (I get it), I think there is a certain kind of fun that you can have with a good double-clutch transmission that you can never have with a manual. And I think it can be great fun.
I have it is awesome, so is the sound of the Aventador which still uses single clutch Automated manual as well as the 599 GTO, I still love the sound 599 GTO E46 M3 SMG & E60 M5 in the future I hope they will make automated manuals sound just like true manual gearbox
The 2015 991 GT3 could possibly be one of the last naturally aspirated high revving 911's made. I hear the 991.2 Gen 2 911's will be Turbo blown soon due to emission req's and also matching higher HP of competitors. This is a niche car, just under 1,100 cars made worldwide of the 991 version. Buy this car, treat it properly and it will become a very valuable piece of highly engineered art. The next GT3 whenever that will be could possibly be a turbo, then your holding a very expensive piece of history.
I don't believe that for a second. Porsche wants to win and if that mean forced induction on GT cars then thats what they will do for certain, look t the PDK(S) on the GT3, Against popular demand but faster. Everyone else is going forced induction now, Porsche won't be far behind. Technology is changing and they have already said that the flat six is maxed out and pretty much has been since the 997 GT3 RS 4.0 produced 500 HP in 2011. The new RS will also have 500 HP. Cant make another new car without a nice jump in power. Porsche will not go to V8's in 911's…Thats 125 Hp per liter, Ferrari has already exceeded that.
both the f1 and f40 were also made somewhat 20 years ago... honestly if you are really going to talk about the sheer driving involvement than ditch any car in this class. If your primary concern is about the experience look towards something with an engine, a simple transmission, and a shell. No one needs to dish out 100+ grand for a "drivers car". by the way the pdk transmission is amazing already cant wait to see this in person.
It doesnt really matters if you shift faster with a pdk. You cant beat the feeling of a manuall... being connected, that's what sportcars is about. Let's hope you get that option in the RS.
must admit very quick gear changes going up but sucks on changing down. i love manual and its less weight in general to most cars.. liked the video but be nice to see porsche take a dive into some new model shapes.
I can't see why all journalists sad against PDK/DSG etc gearboxes. As I'm thinking on it, we can say 90 % of racecar series has a kind of automatic/semi-automatic gearboxes.... And these sportscars must follow racecars in their technology..
"Privately, I have a 964 RS, which is a nice car from 1991. Without any electronic help. No ABS, nothing. Which is something... its real car driving. Its up to ME to go fast. In here, I cannot say I'm a good driver. I can only say its a good car." - Walter Röhrl, 14 rally-winning WRC driver (about the 991 GT3).
Thanks AUTOCAR for reviewing the new 991 GT3. But how come the reviewers so far only have a short time with this Pcar? Looking forward to a full fledge review with real performance figures on speed, braking, cornering g's and so forth.
Even though Harris knew/was realizing the 918 was an epic car (speed, acceleration, handling, steering, stability, fuel economy), he was letting his battery/weight bias get in the way. I''m sure when the 918 come out, it's going to astonish a lot of it's critics. Just going by the new GT3's rave reviews, and improvement; you know the 918 will be an incredible performer.
Some people are saying in the US it worth 130,000 that got to be wrong because the turbo is going to be 180,000 to 220,000. The bad part is that the turbo burns oil
Richard Hammond just did a good one for the 3 new hot hatches in last week's episode. Clarkson did a good one for the F12 in this week's. In the first 3-4 years of Top Gear, it was quite professional. Old Top Gear was totally professional. Watch more Top Gear I would say.
Where do you get that from? Every GTR made is a big proffit for them, when it was £52K in 2009 here in England, for the base model it still made them a profit, now with the upgrades it's still making them a big profit, hence why they can go to the Nurburging all the time. That's why there are price hikes, it's all the testing tuning tweaking and so on that makes it possible, and each year it costs more because there is more to improve apone...
could somebody elaborate on the historic difference between the gt3 and gt3rs please? i assume they'll be releasing a new gt3rs at some point, is it just more focused for track driving, being lighter, etc..? thanks.
Actually semi-automatic gearboxes such as single-clutch (R8 R-Tronic, BMW SMG, Ferrari F1) and dual-clutch (DSG, PDK, S-Tronic) are manual gearboxes by definition. They still use a clutch to disengage the motor from the gearbox. The only difference is, the "semi-automatic" gearboxes have hydraulic pumps and electric components that operate the clutch(es) automatically, hence the name "automated transmission" or "semi-automatic". So calling manual primitive is calling PDK primitive.
As an owner, and having owned a McLaren Senna, I can safely say this is as close to a Senna's feel as far as sound and connectivity to a car for the money. While surely a close rival to a Senna is the 600LT, which I also own, this is easily the most underrated sports car on the market today. If you have $150,000 for a low mileage example today, in 2024, I would get one before they are double that price.
i've never liked any car as much as i like these Porsche's, i can't explain why, especially for someone who didn't admire them as much when i was younger
***** Porsche Cayman is fun until you lose traction. Yes - there are loads of videos saying 'blah blah perfect perfect handling blah blah' and don't get me wrong they sit nicely on the road... but the 911 is a million times better in my personal opinion. My point being - mid engine cars are fun until something goes wrong. It is like spinning a 1 pence piece on the table. That is what happens. Porsche 911 engine is in the wrong place - but when you learn to drive them hard you can exploit the grip and use the throttle in corners and it sticks like glue! :D An opinion which comes from real driving and road testing of cars - you are welcome to check my reviews. I do this every day :-) facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152894626826875.1073741874.669721874&type=1&l=8a4465e406 facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152850491981875.1073741869.669721874&type=1&l=6402658ae6 facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152824107536875.1073741867.669721874&type=1&l=313902506f Br
I agree 100%. I've always been a bit sceptical about the DC boxes, (especially in the GT3!) but seeing how good they really are, I'm starting to come around. I would order this car with a manual though if it were available as an option.
I agree. Top Gear has basically shifted to a comedy program that has a car motif. Chris Harris has the best quality car reviews and the reason is that he is factual AND entertaining at the same time.
It would be nice if you could detail a bit more why it's so good. Your old colleague C.H. does it so well, it's a shame you don't go that much in depth when reviewing cars. Especially with this marvel.
Your up shifting and down shifting a lot more then left braking. And WRC drivers mostly left foot brake because of huge laggy turbos. In my opinion the PDKs just take some of the fun away. I've always thought about buying a car with DCT, but then I remember how engaging and rewarding it is to do all the work yourself.
Did this 2013 GT3 scrape the ground at any point? (e.g. city driving, over speed bumps, pot holes...etc.). Would you drive this car daily or only on the track? Heard the ground clearance on this GT3 is a bit lower than other 911's.
Thank the fucking Lord someone has finally come along that sees cars for what they are. Modern sequentials are so good it's hard to argue a case for the manual. Personally, I think it depends entirely on the car. My 2008 M3 is a manual but if I bought one new I'd spec it with DCT. Nobody wants the manual to die but it's about time people started appreciating semi auto boxes more. Some are world class and even add to the drive.
I thought that maybe since the GT3 was now only going to be available with pdk. That maybe just maybe the gt2 would be available with a traditional manual. But nope. They showed the GT2. Pdk only :/. I mean pdk is great but damn.
Have you driven the car? How are you so sure its not involving? The cayman s was rated as one of the most fun cars around to drive, even when it was equipped with the PDK. Its also mid-engined which is supposed to make it more stable and less "fun". The main reason a 911 is fun is because its rear-engined and produces an effect unlike most other supercars out there.
Good Line on Bolt. Lol. Plus, if you make the car exciting, well enough (such as the Italia and new GT3), the drivers will have so much fun in the car, they'd appreciate the Dual Clutch.
That was a really good and exciting review. I believe he got Chris Harris on this review of the same car hands down and Chris is my favorite but I like this guy
Graham I used to say exactly the same thing and would have totally 100% agreed......until I drove PDK. I found PDK allowed me to focus on my steering, weight balance, corner entry and exit all that little bit more which actually had me more involved in the driving experience.PDK is that good it's no longer a distraction like early DSG boxes.I do LOVE a real manual but PDK now is amazing. Look at it like like this,I love big natural boobs but great fake ones are also lots of fun! Just love both!
Not usually a Porsche fan, but this is the best car that has come out in the past year. I love manuals but, I feel this specific car should have the PDK. (I drive manual every day and love it) but I think this has the correct transmission. I also think the RS should have the PDK OR MANUAL. However this car was designed for the PDK, so it seems unlikely. Hopefully however, they will make a special version with the manual for specific purists. It'd be a hard choice to decide however.
I'm not talking about racing. I'm talking about driving fast. Obviously all this is subjective but for me, when I drive fast in such a quick car I prefer to have paddles. But I do find it ridiculous on the Clio RS for example or the Golf GTI. Also, some systems do get you involved. I haven't tried the PDK but I have tried Ferrari's in the 16M and it's just great. I can only imagine how it is in the 458!
I know @ 1:28 me says that it makes peak power at 8250 but he never revved to it, never mentioned about it, heck the GoPro never caught a glimpse of the needle hitting 9000 :P
If speed and winning a race or getting a faster time is the object (which in sports cars is typically the object) then it is the point. If "being one with the car" and the feeling of stirring the gears sentimentally if more important to you - then having a manual is necessary. Neither is the hard fast rule. But in porsches mind they think faster lap times are paramount. I can see it both ways.
Never said it was never crossed shopped with them. It's just not cross shopped often. Of course some (who have an affinity for the vehicle) will. If you go to the Porsche, Ferrari, Lambo forums, very few members/owners, have both cars (or even owned a GTR in the past). Of course, some try/owned the vehicle, but most of them don't ending keeping it in the long run, like their favorite Porsche or Ferrari. The GTR is kind looked upon, like an American Muscle Car, but with world class handling.
quite a statement: "I dont know, I think this is the best sports car ive ever driven"
Cant believe that,
I had a 04 SMG M3 for 4 years, sold it with 100,000miles, still original perfect clutch. even if it failed cost of changing it was the same (same clutch plate), just a couple of hrs extra labor for setting the actuators
I suppose you could argue that a crank handle is better than a starter motor for the same reason :)
seriously i could never go back to manual now, just like Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini. Putting a manual in a GT3 is like making Usain Bolt run in flip flops
PS: What I meant to say was; practically every Porsche 911 variant is more expensive than the GTR, & still out sells it (though the GTR is cheaper).
So who would win the sales game, was never in question.
And this is despite the fact that the two cars (even the turbo, and especially the GT3, 2) are not cross shopped nearly as much as GTR fan boys believe.
The GT3, 2, and Turbo, are being cross shopped more with Lambo's and Ferrari's, than with GTR's.
All respect to the GTR, nonetheless.
You should've told him that directly. He seems like the kind of guy who appreciates being told he's great, what with his obvious pride in being able to heel-and-toe and drive like a proper man.
GT3RS extras over a "regular" GT3:
- until 991, the chasis from the 4S (more width at the back)
- more width at the front
- big wing
- less weight (no rear seats or pading, carbonate windows instead of glas)
- roll cage and 5 point harness
- shorter gearing and some more PS
- lighter flywheel
To all you armchair car journalists commenting on how terrible it is that the new GT3 lacks a manual box: when is the last time you saw an F1 car with a clutch pedal? A manual is not the best way to cover ground quickly anymore.
Steve you are my very favourite reviewer all things Porsche. Of course I will never afford a GT3, but our 997 generation 2 is quite a nice compensation. A big thank you from the north.
I was skeptical to hear that this GT3 has the most compliant ride ever, 4-wheel steering, lack of a manual, is bigger and heavier than ever, but seeing this in action nullifies every reservation I've had. I don't doubt Sutcliffe's claim that this might be the best sports car ever. Great video.
If you wanted to know what it does then here in short: The rear wheels turn in the opposite direction than the front wheels below 80km/h, to give you a shorter wheelbase feel and thus a shorter turning circle to make it more agile. The rear wheels turn in the same direction than the front wheels above 80km/h to provide a long wheelbase feel and thus provide stability. Note that the wheels do not turn allot, but its dynamic according to how much the steering wheel is turned, traction and speed.
Can't beat the sound of a porsche. Almost makes you cream your shorts lol
I meant in modern cars... The main reason those gearboxes were introduced was for the driver to have full control of the shifts in cars that are so quick. They rev so fast it's difficult to get every change absolutely spot on. Also, exactly because they're quick the driver can have both hands on the wheel and therefore better control of the car.
Did you see Harris' review of the GT3? He said that when driving on some technical roads, having a manual would almost be too much work to.
On a "fun car," like a Miata or a BRZ, a manual makes the most sense, because you're having a lot of fun without going bonkers fast. But on a car that will be tracked (like GT3s usually are), paddles give you the opportunity to have both hands on the wheel when your attention is really in demand and you're trying to be fast. And it's still loads of fun.
This video does a nice job of making the car feel responsive and agile. The way it breaks traction so suddenly is amazing. The driver needs to be as fast as the car.
Not only is the car gorgeous, but you gotta love the sound on that direct injected flat 6!
yeah, i saw harris' review and even he asked the question of what is the purpose of a gt3. true, a manual can't offer the performance of a dct, but the question still remains; what is more important when it comes to driving...performance numbers or visceral appeal. for some, driving is more than track times, it's the communication between the driver and the machine for those drivers, shifting and heel and toe'ing is a major part of the experience of driving. your points are valid though
4:04 you can hear it bounce off of the rev-limiter when he slides the car and counter steers.
Something about the stance of this thing just looks amazing. Don't know what's changed since the 997 but it just looks so aggressive....and of course it's amazing to drive it seems, to no-one's great surprise. Bravo Porsche!
I agree. Keep in mind, Chris has longer videos so he has more time to get into the technical stuff, whereas Steve usually has to wrap it up in 5-6 minutes. The two of them on the same channel would be a car-lover's Shangri-la.
I thought same way about manual gearbox. Then I changed my cayman s first gen with a gen 2 cayman s with pdk. When you have driven it once you will NEVER miss it in future!
This car is so damn beautiful...I must have one before I die
Do you have one?
Same here bud I want one before 8 died too lol. Keep buying lottery but no luck
And the Hits Keep Coming:
Greg Kable, also of Autocar, called the new 2013 GT3 "One Of The All Time Greats", and said "the new one [GT3] operates, on an altogether higher plane, right up there with the Ferrari Italia for pure unadulterated dynamic excellence"
He loved the car like Steve. His review was written, and can found on the web if you search for it on Rennlist, Rennteam, Autocar's sight, etc.
Here in Germany there was and still is a huge discussion about the missing manual gearbox. The most Porsche owners would never drive a Porsche without a manual shifter, so it is a trade off for them.
Might be just me but I just dislike the random black blank buttons in the centre stack beside gear mode selector...
This car, because it doesn't have a manual box anymore, if you pull both paddles at the same time, it would give u clutch kick, basically its like a drift mode!
beautiful car.
I think its officially classed as a "semi-automatic" system: gear changes are computer controlled and "automated" but with the ability for driver based manual changes by means of the paddles or shifter. The only major difference between an Semi auto and an auto is the use of clutch(es) instead of torque converter for faster shifts in lieu of increased towing capacity. Hence why i assume PDK isn't in the Cayenne.
I don't really notice a difference in quality over older videos. Do you mind explaining why you think so?
Never was in to 911s or Porsche even, but now, seeing the 911 growing and growing I think that the Porsche coupe to have is the Cayman/Boxter- the new gen looks really good in person, nothing to be ashamed of, plus small dimensions and the RIGHT engine positioning. Wait for them to add some punch and scrub some weight out to make a next-gent Cayman R and I'm sold. But when it'd be my mone, I'd still take the 4C. Thank you
steve you do such a good job at your job:-)
I agree about the "sound" of single-clutch semi-automatic gearboxes. Listen to the Pagani Zonda Cinque! Amazing sound.
yes, its just a stripped out version with a few more horsepowers. They also released a 4.0 version which was an upgrade from the 3.8 engine giving even more power. Basically its a hardcore version of the gt3, porsche does the same with the gt2 hence, the gt2 rs...
You can spend more....but you can't get more cool than this GT3.
I wasn't arguing that paddles are just as good or better. I was just being a smart-ass about the OP's fear of not having a knob to hold onto. Of course it's not the same as a manual, but my point was you still get a knob.
And while I'm really tired of everyone raving about the purity of having a knob and a 3rd pedal (I get it), I think there is a certain kind of fun that you can have with a good double-clutch transmission that you can never have with a manual. And I think it can be great fun.
I've never been much of a Porsche fan, but this car is making me think that I'm going to get one once I'm done with my M3! This car is amazing!
Hell yeah. My daily driver is a 2007 SharkWerks 997 Turbo with their stage 2 package- 650hp. I'll hit 40,000 miles this week.
I have it is awesome, so is the sound of the Aventador which still uses single clutch Automated manual as well as the 599 GTO, I still love the sound 599 GTO E46 M3 SMG & E60 M5 in the future I hope they will make automated manuals sound just like true manual gearbox
The 2015 991 GT3 could possibly be one of the last naturally aspirated high revving 911's made. I hear the 991.2 Gen 2 911's will be Turbo blown soon due to emission req's and also matching higher HP of competitors. This is a niche car, just under 1,100 cars made worldwide of the 991 version. Buy this car, treat it properly and it will become a very valuable piece of highly engineered art. The next GT3 whenever that will be could possibly be a turbo, then your holding a very expensive piece of history.
ERIC DAVIS I think the head of Porsche GT department said the GT3 will always be naturally aspirated. Just the other models will have turbos.
I don't believe that for a second. Porsche wants to win and if that mean forced induction on GT cars then thats what they will do for certain, look t the PDK(S) on the GT3, Against popular demand but faster. Everyone else is going forced induction now, Porsche won't be far behind. Technology is changing and they have already said that the flat six is maxed out and pretty much has been since the 997 GT3 RS 4.0 produced 500 HP in 2011. The new RS will also have 500 HP. Cant make another new car without a nice jump in power. Porsche will not go to V8's in 911's…Thats 125 Hp per liter, Ferrari has already exceeded that.
both the f1 and f40 were also made somewhat 20 years ago...
honestly if you are really going to talk about the sheer driving involvement than ditch any car in this class. If your primary concern is about the experience look towards something with an engine, a simple transmission, and a shell. No one needs to dish out 100+ grand for a "drivers car".
by the way the pdk transmission is amazing already cant wait to see this in person.
It doesnt really matters if you shift faster with a pdk. You cant beat the feeling of a manuall... being connected, that's what sportcars is about. Let's hope you get that option in the RS.
must admit very quick gear changes going up but sucks on changing down. i love manual and its less weight in general to most cars.. liked the video but be nice to see porsche take a dive into some new model shapes.
Fantastic review.... Cheers
Roger
I can't see why all journalists sad against PDK/DSG etc gearboxes. As I'm thinking on it, we can say 90 % of racecar series has a kind of automatic/semi-automatic gearboxes.... And these sportscars must follow racecars in their technology..
I like the spoiler to. It's the RS some times, where the spoiler seems wild and tacked on. Lol
"Privately, I have a 964 RS, which is a nice car from 1991. Without any electronic help. No ABS, nothing. Which is something... its real car driving. Its up to ME to go fast. In here, I cannot say I'm a good driver. I can only say its a good car."
- Walter Röhrl, 14 rally-winning WRC driver (about the 991 GT3).
Thanks a lot Steve I´m always looking forward to your reviews . You make me feel like I´m i the drivers seat !
Good points.
One thing though: Porsche has always won sales over the GTR, though virtually all of their 911's are more expensive than the GT3
My god, the shifts... these quick shifts... Thanks Porsche for that!
OMG....I can't believe how good it looks and sounds.
Thanks AUTOCAR for reviewing the new 991 GT3. But how come the reviewers so far only have a short time with this Pcar? Looking forward to a full fledge review with real performance figures on speed, braking, cornering g's and so forth.
I still enjoy driving stickshift but I'd gladly give that up to drive this.. A good DSG box can be fun and this is definitely one of the best
Even though Harris knew/was realizing the 918 was an epic car (speed, acceleration, handling, steering, stability, fuel economy), he was letting his battery/weight bias get in the way. I''m sure when the 918 come out, it's going to astonish a lot of it's critics. Just going by the new GT3's rave reviews, and improvement; you know the 918 will be an incredible performer.
Some people are saying in the US it worth 130,000 that got to be wrong because the turbo is going to be 180,000 to 220,000. The bad part is that the turbo burns oil
Dude goes sideways like a "BOSS"! Sick car.
I didn't really like porsche before but this 911 blows my head. Incredible performance and it looks very cool.
Richard Hammond just did a good one for the 3 new hot hatches in last week's episode. Clarkson did a good one for the F12 in this week's. In the first 3-4 years of Top Gear, it was quite professional. Old Top Gear was totally professional.
Watch more Top Gear I would say.
It's because there are different HP measures.
There's the german PS HP and the brake horsepower(BHP)
Where do you get that from? Every GTR made is a big proffit for them, when it was £52K in 2009 here in England, for the base model it still made them a profit, now with the upgrades it's still making them a big profit, hence why they can go to the Nurburging all the time. That's why there are price hikes, it's all the testing tuning tweaking and so on that makes it possible, and each year it costs more because there is more to improve apone...
could somebody elaborate on the historic difference between the gt3 and gt3rs please? i assume they'll be releasing a new gt3rs at some point, is it just more focused for track driving, being lighter, etc..? thanks.
Actually semi-automatic gearboxes such as single-clutch (R8 R-Tronic, BMW SMG, Ferrari F1) and dual-clutch (DSG, PDK, S-Tronic) are manual gearboxes by definition. They still use a clutch to disengage the motor from the gearbox. The only difference is, the "semi-automatic" gearboxes have hydraulic pumps and electric components that operate the clutch(es) automatically, hence the name "automated transmission" or "semi-automatic".
So calling manual primitive is calling PDK primitive.
As an owner, and having owned a McLaren Senna, I can safely say this is as close to a Senna's feel as far as sound and connectivity to a car for the money. While surely a close rival to a Senna is the 600LT, which I also own, this is easily the most underrated sports car on the market today. If you have $150,000 for a low mileage example today, in 2024, I would get one before they are double that price.
i've never liked any car as much as i like these Porsche's, i can't explain why, especially for someone who didn't admire them as much when i was younger
Episode 1 of season 20. The hot hatch comparison test. Was a pretty good one. Not the best but was an honest opinion.
CANNOT wait until the new GT3 RS
***** Porsche Cayman is fun until you lose traction.
Yes - there are loads of videos saying 'blah blah perfect perfect handling blah blah' and don't get me wrong they sit nicely on the road... but the 911 is a million times better in my personal opinion. My point being - mid engine cars are fun until something goes wrong. It is like spinning a 1 pence piece on the table. That is what happens. Porsche 911 engine is in the wrong place - but when you learn to drive them hard you can exploit the grip and use the throttle in corners and it sticks like glue! :D
An opinion which comes from real driving and road testing of cars - you are welcome to check my reviews. I do this every day :-)
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Br
I agree 100%. I've always been a bit sceptical about the DC boxes, (especially in the GT3!) but seeing how good they really are, I'm starting to come around. I would order this car with a manual though if it were available as an option.
I'm curious how the 2015 z06 will do against this
Frank Moreno it does better numberswize but this car is all about the raw experience, thats why he calls it the worlds best sports car
Bravo on the filming autocar! Nicely shot
I agree. Top Gear has basically shifted to a comedy program that has a car motif.
Chris Harris has the best quality car reviews and the reason is that he is factual AND entertaining at the same time.
Its annoying that people get mad over something they'll never drive. Just be glad they made it to begin with.
What is the time around the Ring compared to the GTR?
Well done Steve Sutcliffe and well done Autocar. Brilliant video!
It would be nice if you could detail a bit more why it's so good. Your old colleague C.H. does it so well, it's a shame you don't go that much in depth when reviewing cars. Especially with this marvel.
Your up shifting and down shifting a lot more then left braking. And WRC drivers mostly left foot brake because of huge laggy turbos.
In my opinion the PDKs just take some of the fun away. I've always thought about buying a car with DCT, but then I remember how engaging and rewarding it is to do all the work yourself.
good review. he should've talked a little more about the four wheel steering though
Steve Sutcliffe is every bit as good as Chris Harris in my opinion.
Thanks for another great video Steve.
Cheers
Did this 2013 GT3 scrape the ground at any point? (e.g. city driving, over speed bumps, pot holes...etc.). Would you drive this car daily or only on the track? Heard the ground clearance on this GT3 is a bit lower than other 911's.
You can still put one hand on the gear knob, and shift with that gear knob, too!
Thank the fucking Lord someone has finally come along that sees cars for what they are. Modern sequentials are so good it's hard to argue a case for the manual. Personally, I think it depends entirely on the car. My 2008 M3 is a manual but if I bought one new I'd spec it with DCT.
Nobody wants the manual to die but it's about time people started appreciating semi auto boxes more. Some are world class and even add to the drive.
even with all its new tech it makes fall deeper in love :)
What is it then? Since you can put in drive and drive without touching the stick or the paddels.
no, the fact that almost all of the buyers get it with the PDK and it only made fiscal sense to make one or the other was the point
Steve sutcliffe is the best thing that ever happened to autocar
Are they gonna make a gt2 version. ..also how much better is this than the 4.0 they made not to long ago? That would be a good video
I thought that maybe since the GT3 was now only going to be available with pdk. That maybe just maybe the gt2 would be available with a traditional manual. But nope. They showed the GT2. Pdk only :/. I mean pdk is great but damn.
Have you driven the car? How are you so sure its not involving? The cayman s was rated as one of the most fun cars around to drive, even when it was equipped with the PDK. Its also mid-engined which is supposed to make it more stable and less "fun". The main reason a 911 is fun is because its rear-engined and produces an effect unlike most other supercars out there.
The King has returned. Period.
Good Line on Bolt. Lol.
Plus, if you make the car exciting, well enough (such as the Italia and new GT3), the drivers will have so much fun in the car, they'd appreciate the Dual Clutch.
That was a really good and exciting review. I believe he got Chris Harris on this review of the same car hands down and Chris is my favorite but I like this guy
Ye almost all high power diesels have triptronic instead of s-tronic because the dual clutch have problems with high torqe.
Graham I used to say exactly the same thing and would have totally 100% agreed......until I drove PDK. I found PDK allowed me to focus on my steering, weight balance, corner entry and exit all that little bit more which actually had me more involved in the driving experience.PDK is that good it's no longer a distraction like early DSG boxes.I do LOVE a real manual but PDK now is amazing. Look at it like like this,I love big natural boobs but great fake ones are also lots of fun! Just love both!
Not usually a Porsche fan, but this is the best car that has come out in the past year. I love manuals but, I feel this specific car should have the PDK. (I drive manual every day and love it) but I think this has the correct transmission. I also think the RS should have the PDK OR MANUAL. However this car was designed for the PDK, so it seems unlikely. Hopefully however, they will make a special version with the manual for specific purists. It'd be a hard choice to decide however.
I'm not talking about racing. I'm talking about driving fast. Obviously all this is subjective but for me, when I drive fast in such a quick car I prefer to have paddles. But I do find it ridiculous on the Clio RS for example or the Golf GTI. Also, some systems do get you involved. I haven't tried the PDK but I have tried Ferrari's in the 16M and it's just great. I can only imagine how it is in the 458!
Where is the row cage?
I know @ 1:28 me says that it makes peak power at 8250 but he never revved to it, never mentioned about it, heck the GoPro never caught a glimpse of the needle hitting 9000 :P
Believe me I have driven this car in germany and you wont miss the stick shift.It is amazing
This car is a bloody legenddddd , i can't wait for the rs , pure evolution
Excellent vid, nice one Steve!
Does it rev to 9000rpm ?
The 918 is coming soon and what about the CGT?
If speed and winning a race or getting a faster time is the object (which in sports cars is typically the object) then it is the point. If "being one with the car" and the feeling of stirring the gears sentimentally if more important to you - then having a manual is necessary. Neither is the hard fast rule. But in porsches mind they think faster lap times are paramount. I can see it both ways.
Never said it was never crossed shopped with them. It's just not cross shopped often. Of course some (who have an affinity for the vehicle) will.
If you go to the Porsche, Ferrari, Lambo forums, very few members/owners, have both cars (or even owned a GTR in the past). Of course, some try/owned the vehicle, but most of them don't ending keeping it in the long run, like their favorite Porsche or Ferrari.
The GTR is kind looked upon, like an American Muscle Car, but with world class handling.
Was difficult for him to admit there is German sports car better than all British sports cars hehehe.