997 GT3 vs 1973 RS...

"Rarified Air..."

Many consider the 1973 Carrera RS to be the greatest 911 of all time. The 997 GT3 is the first Porsche in 34 years to seriously challenge that assumption.


"No single model has truly managed to capture the hearts of Porsche aficionados quite like the 1973 Carrera RS. Take away all the myth and lore surrounding this iconic model, though, and it's difficult to objectively understand how a bit more displacement, some upgraded suspension components and a few aerodynamic appendages have managed to create such an enduring sensation. Even the notion that the Carrera RS is some kind of stripped-out racer with significantly reduced weight is largely a misconception: Over 85 percent were optioned with the M472 Touring Package, effectively making them every bit as heavy as a contemporary 911S.

Spend some time behind the wheel of a pristine, original example, however, and it's easy to appreciate that there's something tangibly magical about the Carrera RS that is far greater than the sum of its various fortified parts. The mechanically injected 2.7-liter engine makes all the quintessential flat-6 noises and pulls with enthusiasm from relatively low down in the rev range, though it still thrives on being wrung out to the redline. The 915 gearbox is a pleasure to shift, even if it requires a determined shove to cleanly move from gate to gate. The chassis is supple and feelsome in a way that excessive weight and low-profile tires have all but eradicated in more modern machinery. The RS provides all the visceral thrills one could ever expect from a vintage 911, yet there's nothing at all harsh or punishing about this FIA-sanctioned homologation special. In fact, it is every bit as comfortable and practical as any other 911 of its era."

...

"With the 997 GT3, though, Porsche has finally created another masterpiece worthy of the same admiration as its 34-year-old spiritual progenitor. Many will be drawn to the new GT3 for its aesthetics alone, which wasn't as true with the 996-generation GT3. The latest version blends the grace and proportions of the standard 997 with a far more aggressive front fascia, a uniquely sculpted rear bumper and a sizable rear spoiler which partially conceals a pair of exquisitely shaped air intakes good for 15 additional horsepower at high speeds. Combined with its hunkered-down stance and the most attractive set of alloy wheels fitted to a 911 since the original Fuchs, the 997 GT3 is arguably Porsche's best-looking product in at least a decade, and is certain to withstand the fickle whims of fashion for a long time to come.

Technically speaking, the 2007 GT3 represents a thorough evolution of its 996-based predecessor rather than an entirely new product. Power is still provided by the familiar 3,600-cc, water-cooled flat- 6 that can trace its roots back to the purpose-built GT1 racers of the late '90s. However, a larger throttle butterfly, revised cylinder heads and a new exhaust system which terminates in a pair of centrally mounted pipes have unleashed 35 more horsepower and 15 additional lb-ft of torque, simultaneously raising the redline to a dizzying 8,400 rpm. The 6-speed manual gearbox benefits from shorter ratios and an improved linkage, while electronic traction control has joined the mechanical limited-slip differential to provide an extra buffer of safety. Arguably the most notable development is the adaptation of PASM, Porsche's electronically variable shock damping system which is designed to provide a more comfortable ride without sacrificing handling composure. In isolation, these are all really just minor enhancements to the fundamental components introduced with the prior GT3. Taken together, however, they contribute to the formation of a far greater whole."

...

"The GT3 may possess nearly twice the horsepower of a Carrera RS, not to mention technology that was merely science fiction back in 1973, but the root of its appeal is remarkably similar. Though it would hardly look out of place rolling off the tarmac at Spa, the GT3 is first and foremost a street car, complete with all the practical attributes enjoyed by its more mainstream siblings.

Yet for all the added refinement and usability that this latest iteration brings to the table, it simultaneously preserves and even accentuates the many unique characteristics that have drawn enthusiasts to the rear-engine 911 for over five decades. More than any other 997, the GT3 refuses to sacrifice one iota of character in its pursuit of technical perfection. It is one of the few modern sports cars with a truly charismatic and idiosyncratic nature that we doubt any dedicated driving enthusiast would ever tire of experiencing."

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...thanks to Sports Car International!