2005 Porsche 911 GT3 New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2005 Porsche 911 GT3?
According to Porsche, the 911 GT3 remains unchanged from last year and will only be sold in "limited quantities" in 2005. This is probably due to the fact that it remains based on the 911's older "996" platform – this year's Carrera and Carrera S have been significantly updated and are now knighted with a "997" moniker.

Advantages of the 2005 Porsche 911 GT3:

• Better acceleration than standard-issue 911 Carrera
• Handles, steers and stops with the best in the business
• Well-suited for "track-day" event use

Objections to the 2005 Porsche 911 GT3:

• Cheap interior buttons and switches
• Muddled control layout and operation
• Heavy clutch

Editor's Advice:
Likely to appeal only to the Porsche faithful rather than nouveau-riche conspicuous consumers, the 2005 Porsche 911 GT3 is our favorite rendition of this sports car icon. Eschewing frivolities for a back-to-basics performance package, the GT3's more powerful normally-aspirated flat six, rear-drive configuration, and focus on curb weight reductions add up to a more elemental Porsche 911 experience. If you're interested, best to buy now or you you'll have to wait a while until the 997 GT3 arrives.