Porsche 997 GT3 Ownership & Running Costs | End of term | Cost of ownership

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After three fantastic years, a review of ownership and running costs of the Porsche 997 GT3
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TheThrottleCable, the journey of buying and owning a Porsche 996 through the eyes of an enthusiast:
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[@sSW-nu1lb]

Hey Rob. This is literally the one-and-only video I've seen on this subject - and such a good, frank and informative one. Thanks for going into the proper detail. I've just bought one of these last August (with fingers crossed to see whether I can afford to run it) - so very pleased to hear your ownership didn't burn you!! The next owner is a lucky man. They are fantastic cars and I agree with you - if you're interested in owning one, then go for it, while you can still get one. They just sound fantastic, are as low-visibility as you can get, and just get on and do what they say on the tin, every time. great channel Rob - sorry we won't be seeing any more of the red beast. That's alright though - You'll just have to get another one, soon as!!

[@TheThrottleCable]

Thank you. I’m slightly envious you’ve only just bought one!

[@paulcomley5758]

Nice video as always Like the 996 content ... I bought mine blind 2 years ago with no knowledge what’s so ever... I’m now a lot more clued up with all things 996 thanks in part to content like yours. Cheers

[@TheThrottleCable]

Thank you Paul, glad you find my ramblings interesting !

[@dannywootton9553]

Thank for the video, very interesting to watch as I also have a 997.1 GT3 ‘comfort’, which I have now had for 11 years and I love it I agree with everything you say, other than I took a different approach by always having a warranty. Given I had most of the front suspension replaced whilst trying to diagnose a rattle (which in the end was faulty shocks), a new PCM, new exhaust, new starter motor and I think a new power steering pump this month, I think I have got value for money. Other than a 991 Touring, I’m not sure there is anything else I’d want to change it for, Given I paid £70k when I bought it, it’s proving reasonable value for money 😀

[@TheThrottleCable]

Great to read this Danny, and congratualtions for having been able to enjoy the car for so long! I think the 997 era GT3 is peak 911, and teh best all round drivers car. Indeed you can now go faster, more comfortably in a later car, but I struggle to think of anything that beats the 997 for its size, engine, delivery and fun factor.

[@martinbrown1452]

Fantastic video Rob, OMG i FEEL YOUR PAIN and i dont even own it.... Stunning car i have to say. Keep doing your videos on your 996 and up grades. Take care.

[@TheThrottleCable]

Cheers Martin, it was driven away today by its new owner. Sad day indeed 🙁

[@jmiller175]

Interesting video Rob but think you’ve missed the key bits out people are interested in. Those being what you bought it for, finance costs (if applicable) and sale price. Without these the cost of ownership seems pointless to me. Otherwise, really like the channel, as a 996 CSR owner I find the videos really helpful and appreciate the time and effort you put in.

[@TheThrottleCable]

Depreciation on these is not as simple as most modern cars - sometimes they might appreciate so it is more an ‘of the moment’ figure! For me not so lucky as to get appreciation, but about an 8% loss on depreciation over 3 years (not a strong market right now), plus servicing costs. Either way I’d say very strong residuals normally follow a GT car.

[@TheThrottleCable]

Ps. which of the 996 CSR’s is your one? 🤘

[@jmiller175]

@@TheThrottleCable 004, the silver with bronze wheels one 👌🏻

[@Griphook1]

I've added you as a featured channel Rob, as I really enjoy your content. I've just got my 996 C4S back from Unique Porsche, after a full engine rebuild. Shame I can't get much of the running in done!

[@TheThrottleCable]

Thank you, that’s very kind. I think the C4S is one the best looking 911’s of the pack, my C4S is now with my uncle (seal grey over black) a beautiful car. I should probably try and get its sexy hips out for a video 👍

[@Griphook1]

@@TheThrottleCable I've just done a one take video on my friends 992 C4S for my channel. I had it over the weekend.

[@PrivateLighting]

Great video dude! I also have an 07 gt3 in pts orange over in nz (uk new car) for almost 4 years. Red looks great with the gold painted wheels. My 12 yr major service was a bit more expensive as i did coilpacks too, but everything else is similar. Soul performance exhaust sounds amazing (different tone to sharkwers). I also did the numeric shifter which is fantastic. Awesome car to own, nothing to really worry about other than tyres, brakes and basic servicing.

[@TheThrottleCable]

They look great in orange. Sadly not nearly enough 997s seem to have been made in bold colours. Enjoy it!

[@chrisrowles843]

Would you say the Soul performance exhaust is better? Does it drone at all? I feel I need a new exhaust to replace my stock one. Not sure on what aftermarket exhaust to get.

[@brianhimmelman420]

side or center Soul?

[@scannell1986]

LOVED the vid... just watched before that a ferrari 360 vid on long term costs.. rounding the figures off Porsche £1000 per year and Ferrari £4000.. and i totally with on the kit car build quality and engines are just not built to last, just to get the Ferrari tax in... Heritage, you can keep it... I have had one so far and are totally committed to them now.

[@TheThrottleCable]

Thank you. I still love the Ferrari’s, I’m just not sure I could live with one from that vintage. Fast forward and the more modern F cars are in another league 👍

[@mdewsnip6076]

Great video Rob, I've been thinking seriously about one of these for a little while now. I have a garage space problem though (and I don't want to get rid of my 996) and also there aren't many in the country I live. I agree you'll regret selling yours! Lovely car.

[@TheThrottleCable]

For me the 7’ GT3 was a hero car since I first started to watch the Le Mans series - owning one was a bit like ‘living the dream’ 😋

[@madtony5788]

Rob, what’s next then? I was shocked to see this car driving behind me the other morning! I was trying to see what it was in my mirror, with a frosted back window, it didn’t take long to see a GT3 was behind me! Looked so nice, you must be gutted saying goodbye!

[@TheThrottleCable]

It's a bloody lovely car and after three years of owning it, it kind of becomes a mechanical extension of you. Once you were used to it, it was rapid cross-country. I took the back roads all the way to RPM that morning and it was a hoot despite how greasy the roads were. It's the first car I've ever sold that I wasn't 'ready' to sell - but with hopes of an expanding family a bigger house is the sensible 'Dad' move. The 996 will have to keep me honest for now :)

[@madtony5788]

@@TheThrottleCable I’ve just recently bought my first GT car! I can’t wait for the nice weather!

[@TheThrottleCable]

I’m sure it won’t disappoint! I’m going to try and get out for a few test drives in some when lockdown allows

[@marcducati]

At one point, 2.55, you talk about the 12 year service. According to Porsche, on top of other things like spark plugs there is indeed the Gear Box oil change. You talk about a poly ribbed belt, but there is no mentionne of the belt in the Porsche service intervals that I have for the 997 GT3. Although I would change it by precaution never the less.

[@TheThrottleCable]

The interval is to replace the drive belt at 48,000 miles (80,000 km) or every 6 years - hence it falls into the 12 year along with the following: Spark plugs every 24,000 miles (40,000 km) or every 4 years. Fuel filter every 48,000 miles (80,000 km) or every 6 years. Transmission oil every 96,000 miles (160,000 km) or 12 years. You can find a full schedule for major service items here: pictures.dealer.com/porscheofsanantonio/b76c47860a0d02b700ff0d4bbdff4e2c.pdf

[@marcducati]

@@TheThrottleCable OK I missed the fact that it was in the 6 years and so it didn't appear in the 12 years. Thanks

[@TheThrottleCable]

no problem, you're welcome!

[@a1topdog]

Rob, wheh does the man maths kick in and you plough a chunk of the GT3 sale proceeds into the 996 🤔😁

[@TheThrottleCable]

Please no, don't say that - I've already been fishing around collecting cars! my own worst enemy!!!

[@kamsurdhur6356]

Rob, great contents, let me know if you are interested in parting with your GT3 bud. Kam

[@TheThrottleCable]

Hi Kam, thank you, but the car was sold and driven away yesterday! Sad times for me 😢

[@flys2k]

What about RMS And EMS issues on the 997’s?

[@TheThrottleCable]

Not an issue for the mezger engined GT3

[@timelesskeeper]

How in the world do you park your car in that tiny garage? And get out of it? Beautiful car!

[@TheThrottleCable]

In the UK this is a pretty reasonably sized garage! 😁

[@pj9375]

Gt3.1 or .2? Love the wheels

[@TheThrottleCable]

.1 - amazing car ❤️

[@Griphook1]

Well you still have your 996, with the changed you're making to get the car to drive how you want it, you'll still have an amazing road car. I've had to sell cars too in the past and the ones you love really hurt. BUT you'll buy other cars in the future that you'll love. The main thing is, you still have a 911 in your stable :)

[@TheThrottleCable]

Indeed; I’m lucky to have my little outlaw tucked up the garage. Just a bit of heart breaker saying goodbye to the GT3 💔

[@pye007]

How about a modified 996 Turbo?

[@TheThrottleCable]

Funny enough I was looking yesterday - they seem a bargain way into a mezger. I guess it will take a bit of fettling to get it driving like a GT product but that’s half the fun! 😁

[@pye007]

I havea 996 turbo, larger turbos 16/24's, ECU remap, sports Exhaust, Sachs clutch, short shift gear lever, and more. 560 BHP and 600 ft lbs of torque. Just a simple remap at DMS will get you around 520 BHP. Your GT3 couldnt compete in a straight line or in the wet!! But I want one!!!!

[@MrLenny39]

How much Rob for the change to the exhaust I’ve been considering different options.

[@TheThrottleCable]

Hi Lenny, it was about £600 for the pipe and I swapped it over myself. Plenty of options out there; as they are just a straight through pipe, the truth is the difference between them is so very marginal. Any style would work wonders for your aural please!

[@MrLenny39]

@@TheThrottleCable cheers buddy. I remember chatting to you when you were selling it. Lovely car mate.

[@fastdays_1]

@@TheThrottleCable Can you please specify the exact model of your exhaust? I checked on Soul website and I can't find any exhaust for that price. Thanks!

[@freshlayersuk1259]

Hi Rob was this for sale not long ago? Is could it still be possibly for sale?

[@TheThrottleCable]

Yes it was, but she is now in the hands of insta: jmracing66

[@mariodiniz21]

Hey Rob I'm choosing between a 997.1 GT3 and a 997.1 Turbo manual. Was the GT3 very harsh and uncomfortable to use on weekends off for example? I've to find the right balance as I want to be able to go out with my wife in it. I like the Turbo but I always loved the GT3s. Is the clutch a big pain in the ass?

[@TheThrottleCable]

Nice problem to have! The suspension of the GT3 can be switched between firm and really quite hard. I thought it rode very well. for example it wasn't as hard riding and crashy as my Mini GP, but somewhat similar in firmness to my Renaultsport Megane 265 cup which was my daily no problem. The GT3 clutch is heavy yes; I wouldn't want to spend my days in traffic with it, however once on the go its so satisfying to use. GT3 & Turbo are quite different cars mind you - road racer vs grand tourer. The zingy character of the NA vs the more brutal delivery of the Turbo. I think you've got to try both if you're on the fence!

[@kmslitholtd337]

Great insightful video Rob, a truly beautiful spec car. Without wanting to know figures was it a "practically free Porsche" (ie. did you sell for more or less what you paid for it) over the three years?

[@TheThrottleCable]

No about a 8% loss over 3 years on depreciation (not a strong market right now) plus servicing costs; but you’ve got to pay to play right!

[@Henders72]

Another great video of a stunning car, I enjoy your 996 content so please keep them coming.

[@TheThrottleCable]

cheers Henders; i'll be doing a quick review of my new Porsche Tequipment cage and a 1 year report shortly!

[@alunwong3796]

Great video Rob. Thanks for sharing the ownership experience with us. So. Big question. How much did you pay for it originally and what did you sell it for???? 😁

[@TheThrottleCable]

Over the three years I lost just short of £6k - so that translate to an approximate cost of £166 a month

[@alunwong3796]

@@TheThrottleCable That’s a real surprise. I was thinking you would’ve made money? (ie. sold it for more than you paid for it). All the talk around GT3s all suggest they’re going up in value.

[@brianhimmelman420]

Did you u pin the coolant lines! Thank you for video

[@TheThrottleCable]

I didn’t, I don’t see that as something necessary unless you are doing lots of track work. Mine was only used as a street car

[@TobyD]

Great video Rob. Thanks for sharing. Yes suspect you are right, will always be the one that got away. Thought about GT3 myself, but just couldn’t see the point living in a city. Need the right roads to enjoy. Good luck with the house.

[@sSW-nu1lb]

Agreed. It's definitely an out-of-town car, and it's for those trips that you really enjoy it.

[@TheThrottleCable]

On the right roads it’s epic; my last trip to Le Mans in this, completely via B roads was perhaps the best road trip of my life ♥️

[@sSW-nu1lb]

Still have to do one of these. We've got a trip next summer, the only downside is my other half doesnt like it when it performs anything beyond a toyota camry and she'll be coming with me! lucky you if your partner enjoyed your spirited rides.

[@a1topdog]

Agree 💯 on your comments about the 360. Exactly what I thought when I drove one.

[@TheThrottleCable]

...but that engine though 😄

[@a1topdog]

That's all you hear from Ferrari owners, "It's all about the engine!". If you think the build quality on a 360 is bad then drive a 355 🤬

[@TheThrottleCable]

@@a1topdog one of my best friends has a 355 - I might not mention that to him :)

[@markgtrheyes]

Lovely, really tempted for one, but my wife is against selling the car that would fund it. Lucky to have an exige v6, which offers most of the thrills and performance, just not a metzger flat 6.....

[@TheThrottleCable]

The exige is lovely car you can’t go far wrong with that; but yes that mezger 🥰

[@MrLenny39]

I went from an Exige V6 to a 997.1 GT3. Absolutely love it. You don’t get the same driver aids as you do in the Exige and the Mezger engine is a work of art.

[@markgtrheyes]

@@MrLenny39 the Mrs loves the exige but says one hardcore car is enough. She loves the Aston too, which is a soft gt and won't let me sell it....maybe one day....

[@MrLenny39]

@@markgtrheyes I would say the GT3 is much easier to live with than the Exige and probably not as hardcore on the road as you would expect. Still love the Exige had an S1, S2 and S3 fab cars. Enjoy.

[@markgtrheyes]

@@MrLenny39 both the Mrs and I def want to own a Porsche and for me that means a gt version, so will hopefully replace the exige at some point. Will, enjoy the exige in the meantime and trust you will do the same in your gt3!

[@damianwilson2281]

Is 997 a small car like the size of a golf ?

[@damianwilson2281]

Oh yeh subbed as well

[@TheThrottleCable]

Cheers Damian, compared to a current 911 they seem small: Length 4427mm / Width 1808mm / Height 1300mm