Chassis No. WP0AC29944S692461
Engine No. 63425276

Just like the 911 nameplate, it is highly unlikely Porsche will ever go without a GT3 in their future lineup. Named for the FIA international class of GT production cars, it was hotly debated within Porsche that the GT3 be named “RS” straight out of the box. Of course, this was not to be, but it was proof positive that Porsche expected great things from the highest-performing, normally aspirated version of the new 996-generation 911. While the rest of the world was able to enjoy the new GT3 right away, and despite Porsche's promise not to restrict the best variants of their seminal sports car in their largest market, U.S.-based Porsche fans would need to wait until 2004 to sample the new 911 GT3. It was worth the wait.

Debuting in 2004, the updated 996.2 GT3 was a revelation. The Metzger-derived 3.6-liter water-cooled flat six produced 381 race-derived horsepower. With a focus on aerodynamics, the powerful, rev-happy engine pushed the slim body and its occupants to a hair-raising 190 miles per hour. Track performance was equally incredible with improved suspension, incredible turn-in, and larger brakes, the GT3 was able to deliver a 7 minute 43 second Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time—impressive stuff nearly 20 years ago. The GT3 was a sales success as well with 852 North American examples sold in 2004. This particular example was finished in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen during February 2004, finished in non-metallic Black over a full black leather interior. The base MSRP was $99,000, yet this example was optioned with over $20,000 in additional extras—a substantial sum in 2004. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) with the unmistakable yellow calipers were chosen for their near fade-proof stopping power and low weight. Additional desirable options included a full Black leather interior, a thick grip steering wheel, shifter, and handbrake in aluminum and carbon fiber, the storage compartment lid with GT3 logo, and Xenon headlights. In addition, three X-Code options were selected: metal door sills with GT3 logo, aluminum instrument dials, and Porsche-crested headrests. The clean CARFAX shows that the first owner took delivery in Southern California where the car remained for the next 17 years and 29,000 miles. In 2017, the car moved to Pennsylvania and saw service from Sewickley Porsche and Porsche Pittsburgh. In 2021, the car returned to Southern California with 32,000 miles and today appears to be in excellent condition with no evidence of track use. This first-generation U.S. GT3 is a firm favorite among Porsche enthusiasts and today, with Porsche producing as many GT3s as possible to satisfy demand, 996.2-generation GT3s will remain the rarest model type sold in America; well-kept, highly optioned examples like this are even rarer still.