2004 Porsche 911 (996.2) GT3

Intended primarily for competition although still fully road-legal, the Porsche 911 GT3 can trace its ancestry all the way back through a succession of high-performance models to the legendary 911 Carrera RS of 1973. The car takes its name from the FIA's GT3 category of production sports car racing and has been produced in a variety of versions since its introduction in 1999 when the GT3 badges were applied to the Type 996 iteration of the perennial 911.

The 3.6-litre flat-six engine, though, departed from mainstream Type 996 practice by virtue of its water-cooled cylinders, leaving only the heads cooled by air. Called the 'Metzger' engine after its designer, Hans Metzger, this unit was closely related to that of the Porsche 962 'Sports Prototypes' and the 911 GT1 racer. In the GT3 it produced 355bhp, 59 more than in the standard 996, which was delivered to the wheels through a strengthened gearbox boasting interchangeable ratios. To make the GT3 fit for circuit use, the brakes, suspension and wheels were uprated to cope with the substantial increase in performance, whilst aerodynamic downforce was enhanced by a larger front air dam and a distinctive rear spoiler. Weight reduction extended to the removal of the rear seats and most of the sound deadening, rear speakers, sunroof, and air conditioning, though the latter could be ordered as an option, as could a CD/radio. In 2003, the 996 was facelifted (996.2) with Turbo-style headlamps, redesigned front and rear bumpers and some other external changes and, naturally, these revisions carried through to the GT3.

Sourced through the Porsche Centre London, this particular UK-supplied (C16) 996.2 GT3, finished in Polar Silver with the must-have Aero Kit, is fitted with the 6-speed manual gearbox and was originally built to the 'Comfort' specification. It has now been enhanced by a number of ‘Clubsport’ upgrades providing an intriguing and rather desirable package for its next custodian. The black hide interior features leather sun visors, a suede headlining and lightweight Porsche sports seats with crests complimented by red Schroth racing harnesses, all surrounded by the Tequipment 996 roll cage fitted by JZM Porsche in 2015. They also upgraded the suspension in 2016, fitting a three-way KW Clubsport Suspension Kit providing a more dynamic ride and overall feel for the Porsche driver who wants to enjoy the GT3 experience to the max.

In superb condition throughout, the car has formed part of a small eclectic Collection in recent years and has been maintained as required by its fastidious owner. It’s accompanied by a comprehensive stamped service history detailing previous works as completed by Porsche main dealers and specialists, various invoices and older MOT Certificates. Your early inspection is welcomed and encouraged to fully appreciate the impressive package on offer.