I bought one of these new in 2015 and absolutely loved it. Was on the verge of doing the shorter gear set, but ended up buying a good friend’s 991.2 GT3 with 2K miles instead. I really wanted the GT4RS, but with the absolute extortion of dealer markup that US Porsche dealers get for one it was a no-go even after having a deposit on one for over two years before. Even being a 28 year multi-car client didn’t help, which is not how Porsche used to do business
Enjoyed your review and all the seat time you’ve had gives it real authenticity. Liked hearing your comments about the long Tera ratios not being a problem for you and your friends. I have a few mates with GT4s on our long b-road trips and haven’t heard anyone grumble about it. I guess with so much torque you don’t need to rev its guts out with this kind of driving and roads anyway.
Hey Doug. Thanks so much for the comment. That’s exactly right regarding not needing to rev the guys out of it. And even still, I still find plenty of opportunities to open it right up.
Fantastic car, almost bought one, I got a 718 GTS 4 in the end, mainly as I don’t really plan to track it much and will do quite a few miles in it. Couldn’t be happier, they’re all great. Really nice review 👍
This is a terrific commentary. As a potential future buyer I'd love to hear what to look out for when buying one of these. Cheers and thanks again for a terrific video
They're pretty foolproof from what I understand. I'd look for one with the extended Porsche warranty for peace of mind for sure. Also, if you're going to be doing a lot of miles, make sure it has the larger fuel tank!
hello from France. Thank you very much for this video ! It's nice to have feedback from an owner. I also have a 981 GT4 in the same configuration as you. I really love the 18 way sport seats. about the second gear, I agree with you. moreover a rally driver, whose name I forgot sorry, said the problem with short gear ratios is precisely that you have to let go of the steering wheel to change gears all the time. it may be a blessing in disguise. people were making the same point for the 997 gt3 so maybe Porsche didn't do it by chance. Thanks again for your videos. Bonne route ;)
My previous Porsches have been, 911 sc, 930, 996 turbo, 997 c2s, 981 S all manuals Deciding between one of these 981 gt4 or 991. Carrera S or 991.2 T As you have owned both thoughts?
Hey David I can't comment on the T as I'm yet to drive one unfortunately (soon hopefully!) The 991.1S and GT4 definitely have a different feel from each other. For me I would say if you are looking to continue the engaging feel of the older cars, the GT4 manages to straddle the old and new beautifully (in a way that I don't think the 991.1 does). That said, the 991 with its NA engine does definitely excite. Ultimately it depends how you're going to use the car. If the car had to be a daily, 991 with PDK for sure. If it's a weekend fun car, GT4 or T. (my opinion only 😉).
Hi I’m in the market for a Porsche and I’m considering a 2014 991.1 Turbo PDK or a 2016 981 GT4, I love the wide arse look of the turbo and the hunkered down look of the GT4. My guess is I will be happy with either? Would welcome your input?
Hey Smiffy Wow, that’s quite the pairing you’re choosing between! Disclaimer at the beginning. I’ve never driven a Turbo S. I did own a 991.1 Carrera S PDK so there are some similarities but none of the brutal acceleration of the Turbo. Two quite different experiences. Turbo S insanely quick and capable. PDK is absolutely lovely too. Magnificent car for road trips etc. GT4 not as fast in a straight-line but super engaging and fun with the manual shift. A bit louder and more raw but super fun. Ultimately depends on the kind of driving you’re wanting to do. If you’re doing long road trips with occasional twisties etc I’d probably go the Turbo S. If you’re just looking for fun in the twisties and a highly engaging experience, it’s hard to go past the GT4.
Love mine. You're right, gearing is not an issue. Never think about it. I always use rev match. Its active gearbox insurance! I've done tassie, uluru and three adelaide rallies. The car loved it! I have carbon buckets and they are magnificent, even on long journeys.
@@lastrasp and that just speaks to how good of a brand Porsche is. Boxster is the best roadster on the market unless you want the cool factor and can afford a Cobra.
You can always change the gearing if you think its too long on these 981 GT4's. There are kits which change gears 2-5 and even final drive ratios. Also if you want more power, 4.5L stroker kits are available on top of bolt ons + tune. With that, you will have more power under the curve than a 991.2 GT3RS and surprise quite a few them on the track. The only thing you don't get is that 9000rpm redline of the 3RS or 4RS. But great review and an amazing car!
Yep, there are definitely options out there if you really want to go down the rabbit hole. Reviews I've seen with some of these modifications sound amazing. But like you say, it's a very solid package straight out of the box.
I currently own a 987 Cayman. The mid engine is a whole different experience which gives me a smile from ear to ear. The GT4 will be my next toy god willing. The extra horse power and various tit bits make it so appealing. If you know anyone with a GT4 RS, I'd love to hear your review.
Hey Matt. 987 is so good - completely understand that making you grin from ear to ear! I'd love to review a GT4RS. Not sure if it'll happen but I should have some other big hitters coming to the channel soon.
Hey Steve. The car was here for a good time, not a long time sadly. Wasn't my intention to sell it but just had some other things I needed to prioritise for now. Still got my trusty 964 though!
Great review thanks Andy. I have one of the four Cayman R’s in Oz and I totally agree with your comment about the different feel a Cayman/Boxster has. They are just so planted. I’m also in Melbourne. Perhaps we could could compare the GT4 with the R at some stage? Regards. Steve
06:35 there's even stronger cooling (higher rpm on ventilators?) when 'rev match' is on. this brings down the oil temp quite a bit. thanks for the video and btw, I hope I'll never have to decide if the 964 or the gt4 has to go...😉
Definitely not but the Porsche badge has such status now people just assume it’s good because it’s a Porsche. also many younger people have little understanding about what an analogue driving experience is, you need to drive an exige to learn that. That doesn’t mean it’s not a good car, it is.
No, It is not. I drove one for ninety minutes at the Porsche experience center in Los Angeles. Second gear is way to long, and the engine sound is terrible. Sounds like a Subaru.
Great input Ed. I love reading a contrary view. As always with Porsche not every flavour suits everyone's needs. Our perception of whether a car lives up to its hype or not is entirely subjective and depends entirely upon what we're each looking for. In my case it works beautifully. Sounds like - based on your experience - it's not the car for you!
The details you provide as someone who has lived with the car for 8 months make this one of the best GT car reviews out there. Well done.
Thanks so much for the feedback Nicholas. Really glad to hear you got something out of it!
I bought one of these new in 2015 and absolutely loved it. Was on the verge of doing the shorter gear set, but ended up buying a good friend’s 991.2 GT3 with 2K miles instead. I really wanted the GT4RS, but with the absolute extortion of dealer markup that US Porsche dealers get for one it was a no-go even after having a deposit on one for over two years before. Even being a 28 year multi-car client didn’t help, which is not how Porsche used to do business
The best sports car is whatever one you have in your garage.
Haha. I actually can't argue with that!
Our 1983 944 is all the Porsche we can afford!!!😂😂😂 😀😀🚘🚘🏁🏁🍺🍺🍺
Enjoyed your review and all the seat time you’ve had gives it real authenticity. Liked hearing your comments about the long Tera ratios not being a problem for you and your friends. I have a few mates with GT4s on our long b-road trips and haven’t heard anyone grumble about it. I guess with so much torque you don’t need to rev its guts out with this kind of driving and roads anyway.
Hey Doug. Thanks so much for the comment. That’s exactly right regarding not needing to rev the guys out of it. And even still, I still find plenty of opportunities to open it right up.
Fantastic car, almost bought one, I got a 718 GTS 4 in the end, mainly as I don’t really plan to track it much and will do quite a few miles in it. Couldn’t be happier, they’re all great. Really nice review 👍
Oh Chris I reckon the GTS 4.0 is the absolute sweet spot actually! What an awesome car, especially if you plan to do some miles!
Just came across this channel, absolutely loving the content! keep it up :)
Thanks so much Ben! Really appreciate the comment and the support 🙏🏻
This is a terrific commentary. As a potential future buyer I'd love to hear what to look out for when buying one of these. Cheers and thanks again for a terrific video
They're pretty foolproof from what I understand. I'd look for one with the extended Porsche warranty for peace of mind for sure. Also, if you're going to be doing a lot of miles, make sure it has the larger fuel tank!
Enough said. Picking mine up on Tuesday!
Amazing stuff. You're going to love it!
hello from France. Thank you very much for this video ! It's nice to have feedback from an owner. I also have a 981 GT4 in the same configuration as you. I really love the 18 way sport seats.
about the second gear, I agree with you. moreover a rally driver, whose name I forgot sorry, said the problem with short gear ratios is precisely that you have to let go of the steering wheel to change gears all the time. it may be a blessing in disguise. people were making the same point for the 997 gt3 so maybe Porsche didn't do it by chance. Thanks again for your videos. Bonne route ;)
Thanks so much for the comment. I agree with you regarding ratios. For me it’s not a problem and I never worry that the car is not in its powerband.
Good job mate. It’s great that Porsche guys are now getting into them. I love mine. Best car I’ve ever owned for similar reasons you just pointed out.
Hey thanks Marc! Agreed, they’re just so good.
My previous Porsches have been, 911 sc, 930, 996 turbo, 997 c2s, 981 S all manuals
Deciding between one of these 981 gt4 or 991. Carrera S or 991.2 T
As you have owned both thoughts?
Hey David
I can't comment on the T as I'm yet to drive one unfortunately (soon hopefully!)
The 991.1S and GT4 definitely have a different feel from each other. For me I would say if you are looking to continue the engaging feel of the older cars, the GT4 manages to straddle the old and new beautifully (in a way that I don't think the 991.1 does). That said, the 991 with its NA engine does definitely excite.
Ultimately it depends how you're going to use the car. If the car had to be a daily, 991 with PDK for sure. If it's a weekend fun car, GT4 or T. (my opinion only 😉).
Hi I’m in the market for a Porsche and I’m considering a 2014 991.1 Turbo PDK or a 2016 981 GT4, I love the wide arse look of the turbo and the hunkered down look of the GT4. My guess is I will be happy with either? Would welcome your input?
Hey Smiffy
Wow, that’s quite the pairing you’re choosing between!
Disclaimer at the beginning. I’ve never driven a Turbo S. I did own a 991.1 Carrera S PDK so there are some similarities but none of the brutal acceleration of the Turbo.
Two quite different experiences. Turbo S insanely quick and capable. PDK is absolutely lovely too. Magnificent car for road trips etc.
GT4 not as fast in a straight-line but super engaging and fun with the manual shift. A bit louder and more raw but super fun.
Ultimately depends on the kind of driving you’re wanting to do. If you’re doing long road trips with occasional twisties etc I’d probably go the Turbo S. If you’re just looking for fun in the twisties and a highly engaging experience, it’s hard to go past the GT4.
Love mine. You're right, gearing is not an issue. Never think about it. I always use rev match. Its active gearbox insurance!
I've done tassie, uluru and three adelaide rallies. The car loved it! I have carbon buckets and they are magnificent, even on long journeys.
Sounds like you’ve got the perfect setup. I miss mine!
its not too late to buy another!@@lastrasp
I have a spyder and couldn’t agree more about the cars. But roofless is better. 😎
Was just talking to a friend about soft tops and how much they can add to the experience - especially the soundtrack!
The Spyder is awesome.
Yes. Truly exceptional
Agreed Harry! Exceptional indeed.
Glad you are happy with the AWE pieces!
Bloody game changer they were.
That’s cool. These Boxster/ Cayman cars are a great platform imo. You can’t go wrong, it just a matter of preference.
100% no argument from me. The platform is just so effective.
@@lastrasp and that just speaks to how good of a brand Porsche is. Boxster is the best roadster on the market unless you want the cool factor and can afford a Cobra.
@@996Revival absolutely spot on. Porsche just gets it right time after time.
You can always change the gearing if you think its too long on these 981 GT4's. There are kits which change gears 2-5 and even final drive ratios. Also if you want more power, 4.5L stroker kits are available on top of bolt ons + tune. With that, you will have more power under the curve than a 991.2 GT3RS and surprise quite a few them on the track. The only thing you don't get is that 9000rpm redline of the 3RS or 4RS.
But great review and an amazing car!
Yep, there are definitely options out there if you really want to go down the rabbit hole. Reviews I've seen with some of these modifications sound amazing. But like you say, it's a very solid package straight out of the box.
Yup mine has the gearing changed and it makes a big difference
I currently own a 987 Cayman. The mid engine is a whole different experience which gives me a smile from ear to ear. The GT4 will be my next toy god willing. The extra horse power and various tit bits make it so appealing. If you know anyone with a GT4 RS, I'd love to hear your review.
Hey Matt. 987 is so good - completely understand that making you grin from ear to ear! I'd love to review a GT4RS. Not sure if it'll happen but I should have some other big hitters coming to the channel soon.
@@lastrasp I look forward to viewing more content. 👍
Great ending statements! Can’t believe it’s been 8 months but I think reviews are most authentic when you have had time to stew.
Have definitely marinated, stewed and casseroled for this one.
Gday Andy, how’s the GT4 going?
Steve
Hey Steve. The car was here for a good time, not a long time sadly. Wasn't my intention to sell it but just had some other things I needed to prioritise for now. Still got my trusty 964 though!
Nice vid. Good job!
Hey thanks so much!
Good thoughtful review. Thanks for posting.
Thanks so much for watching and for the comment Charles!
Great review of the brilliant GT4 and owning an almost identical spec I agree. Strangely I feel very little attraction to the 964.
Well that’s what’s so great about Porsche. There’s a flavor for everyone! (But my 964 is still my favourite - just).
Great review thanks Andy. I have one of the four Cayman R’s in Oz and I totally agree with your comment about the different feel a Cayman/Boxster has. They are just so planted. I’m also in Melbourne. Perhaps we could could compare the GT4 with the R at some stage? Regards. Steve
Hey Steve. Ah nice one! The R is a car that has always intrigued me. How long have you had it?
@@lastrasp Around 12 months, and 7000km.. We have been down down to Tassie and across to Adelaide. Good fun.
Is the noise the same, more or less than 997?
Pretty different to be honest. A lot louder and more aggressive. Comfortable at cruising speeds though.
Very nicely done!
Thanks so much! Appreciate you checking it out!
06:35 there's even stronger cooling (higher rpm on ventilators?) when 'rev match' is on. this brings down the oil temp quite a bit. thanks for the video and btw, I hope I'll never have to decide if the 964 or the gt4 has to go...😉
Your 964 is bloody lovely so I hope you never have to decide that too!
Don’t do it both are amazing cars!!
Great video Andy!!! So good.
Thanks my man! It’d want to be - only took seven months 🤦🏼♂️
I thought all the GT4's came with the carbon fibre bucket seats?
No it was an option. Same as the GT3. The carbon buckets do look great. Some people love some people not so much.
@@lastrasp Cheers for the reply, my boss had one back I 2016. I loved that car and the carbon seats looked great.
Didn't think our Auto Amateur buddy was that impressed with the AWE fins? I have a 991 and that wind effect is bad.
No he wasn’t. But he’s doesn’t drive faster than 40 mph so hadn’t experienced the effect. 😉
Definitely not but the Porsche badge has such status now people just assume it’s good because it’s a Porsche. also many younger people have little understanding about what an analogue driving experience is, you need to drive an exige to learn that. That doesn’t mean it’s not a good car, it is.
I’ve not driven an Exige but have heard it is certainly a fun, analogue experience. Cheers for the comment!
Yes, yes it is.
Haha. Agreed!
Sweet ride Andy. I’d say it’s perfect.
Thanks Brendan! Hard to argue with you there 🤷🏼♂️
Yes yes it is .
Spot on Bill. Spot on.
3.8L? in the US it's 4.0L and has 414HP
718 GT4 is 4.0 but the 981 GT4 is a 3.8 👌🏼
No, It is not. I drove one for ninety minutes at the Porsche experience center in Los Angeles.
Second gear is way to long, and the engine sound is terrible. Sounds like a Subaru.
Great input Ed. I love reading a contrary view. As always with Porsche not every flavour suits everyone's needs. Our perception of whether a car lives up to its hype or not is entirely subjective and depends entirely upon what we're each looking for. In my case it works beautifully. Sounds like - based on your experience - it's not the car for you!
A measured response indeed squire!
Sounded like a Subaru? You must have been in a 718 4 cylinder turbo Cayman which does have that tone, as the GT4’s do not sound like Subarus.
@@993mike correct, the boxer four sounds like a flat four, imagine that! 🤣🤣
No way does a GT4 sounds like a Subaru lmao
0:08 = nope. Do I need to watch the rest now? Ok fine....
😂
One of four manuals that is..
Gotcha
You look like Mickey Rooney.
😂😂