Porsche 996 GT2 and 996 GT3 RS
The Porsche 996 GT2 and 996 GT3 RS are blue chip collector cars. While the 996 generation of the 911 is one of the least loved incarnations of the rear engined sports car, these are important cars for the brand.
The GT2 and GT3 RS both represent the top performance variants of the 996 generation 911. The 911 GT2 is the top performing turbocharged 996 and the 911 GT3 RS is the fastest naturally aspirated 996.
While both cars offer high performance fun, they are very different. Since the GT2 was not offered in RS trim for the 996, it is not quite as track focused as the GT3 RS. This means that the ride is a bit softer and easier to live with on a daily basis.
The 996 GT2 is very quick, even by today's very high standards. 0-60 mph comes in just 3.6 seconds and flat out it can hit 198 mph. The turbocharged sports car offers a good amount of torque over 2,000 RPMs. The one issue with the GT2 is that it is a bit more about straight line speed. It still handles well, but just isn't as focused for spirited curvy driving as the GT3 RS.
The 996 GT3 RS is a race car for the street. While not slow, the GT3 RS is almost a full second slower to 60 mph than the GT2. 0-60 mph takes 4.3 seconds and it can hit a top speed of around 190 mph. That isn't exactly slow and where the GT3 RS really comes alive is in the handling. The suspension is ready for the track and it takes corners at speeds that lesser cars can only dream of. Beyond that, since you have to rev the flat-six engine out all the way to 8,000 RPMs to get the most out of it, it is just an enjoyable driving experience.
Both of these cars are probably at (or at least near) their lowest depreciation right now. This makes them both a tempting buy for someone wanting an important piece of Porsche history. While they are currently on the lower end of the pricing, expect to pay between $75,000 – $150,000 for either a GT2 or a GT3 RS depending on mileage and condition. We've seen some prices higher or lower than that range, but for a well maintained clean car with reasonable mileage you'll probably find yourself in that price range. If you go down to the standard 996 GT3 than the prices lower down to around the $50,000 range depending on mileage and condition.
The big question, if you have the cash, is; which one would you choose? Head down to the comments and let us know.