IL Track Tested: 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 vs. 2010 Porsche 911 Turbo

My god, the Turbo is basically cockblocking the GT3. Those are some amazing numbers. I'd like to see some track times to see how it puts it all together.

911 turbos have always been fast off the line, but this latest version is off the charts.

The turbo is so well rounded. Always has been fast, handles well, looks great and is daily liveable. Now, it absolutely CRUSHES the holeshot.

Some people prefer NA and RWD.

I want them both, but if forced to pick just one I'd take the GT3.

I must admit, those straight line number of the 911 turbo are very impressive. Then again, my CTS-V will just slightly beat it in the slalom (71.1 mph), which still boggles my mind, considering it's a 4-door Cadillac. Actually, except for acceleration, the CTS-V is only a tick off the performance of the 911 turbo with regards to braking (104 ft. vs. 109 ft.), and skidpad too (0.97g vs. 0.95g). The 911 turbo slightly under performs my C5 Z06 (same braking, and 1.00g skidpad).

Still, on a road course, I would expect a 911 turbo to blow my doors off for the simple fact the AWD allows it to get back into the power coming out of a turn much sooner than either of my RWD cars can, plus the fact it will absolutely crush my cars in the straights. I look forward to messing with them on the track though, at least for a little while :p

@Stingray...I was thinking the exact same thing as I read these times. LOL

I can't believe how fast this new 911 Turbo is in the 1/4. It's almost in the 10's....STOCK!!!! YIKES!!!

FYI - My stock V ran 12.1 a few weeks back. Not too shabby for a grocery getter. ;-)

One thing I would like Edmunds (and all car mags) to do is post a 60' time where possible. This really shows how well cars hook off the line. I'd guess this new 911 Turbo has to pull 1.7s or better.

SCREW YOU Driver: Josh Jacquot!

As I sit here in my office at my desk pushin paperwork for the man, you are in these super cars gettin radical.

Lucky bastard!

The 911 turbos time through the quarter is amazing but that has to be due to AWD. Its trap speed is behind the ZR1 due to its hp gap. IN addition, the 911 allows a short spurt of overboost which likely helps acheive the spectacular 0-60 times. ZR-1 beats both cars on the skidpad and slalom by a decent margin. The only area where the 911 turbo leads is 0-60 and the 1/4 mile time. Of course it should do something better for that extra money.

its obvious Porsche didnt want anyone continuing to say the GTR delivered 911 turbo performance for $80k. That said, aside from the quarter mile time and trap speed the 911 still isnt that far ahead of the much cheaper GTR. As C&D has shown, it still cant beat the Zr1 on a track even if its easier to drive. I'd be interested to see a head to head track test between 911 Turbo and GTR now.

Likewise I could say that the ZR-1, with 140 more hp and less weight, should do something better than a 911..

But, as C&D also showed, performance isn't everything. That's why they preferred the Porsche over the fanboy-favorite ZR-1. Try sitting in a 911 Turbo, then go sit in a ZR-1. You'll know why the 911 is more expensive.

Holy scheisse!

Amazing numbers considering these cars were also very green - only 200 miles on the clock! I must own one of these bad boys someday.

"When it comes to track stars, these are two of the finest you'll ever see. Actually, you may never see either of these cars, as their prices guarantee a certain level of exclusivity."

My neighbor has a white GT3 (similar to the pic) that comes out on weekends. I shall have to continue living vicariously through him for now.

@sherief: Unlike you, I actually drive the performance cars I buy. Not just sit in them. The DESIGN of the 911 turbo's interior is nothing special, and kind of basic actually. The MATERIALS QUALITY of the 911 turbo's interior is definitely superior to the ZR-1's, however, there's no way it's $40k better. Think of it this way: send the ZR-1 to a custom interior shop for a refit, and $40k would buy an interior that would be competitive with a Bentley's, and make the 911's look like a Kia by comparison.

What a pair. I saw a 997 Turbo last weekend in Wichita, Kansas. Man it is good looking. I've never seen a GT3, but I can't imagine I ever will outside of a track.

For for less than half the price I'll take a Boxster Spyder. I can't really handle my G8 GT at its limits, let alone these two monsters. The Spyder would let me flog it and take some driving schools too.

"Likewise I could say that the ZR-1, with 140 more hp and less weight, should do something better than a 911.."

Let's keep things in perspective here, the 911 has the advantage of unreal traction due to its rearward weight bias. If the ZR-1 had more weight on its rear tires, the power alone would demolish almost anything else on the road due to the relatively light curb weight of the vehicle. I'm not making excuses though. While the 911 has handling flaws due to the engine configuration, that set up is great for straightline acceleration.

On I-10 outside Escondido, CA., in 1989, I came up on a 944 Turbo at about 85 mph. I flashed my lights to pass, and the guy looks in his mirror. He grinned, downshifted, and after a slight puff of smoke, proceeded to leave me gasping in his exhaust fumes.
Funny how that mental picture is so clear. I sure would enjoy watching a 911 Turbo leave me in its wake.

I`m amazed. I`m impressed. A lot.

"The turbo is so well rounded. Always has been fast, handles well, looks great and is daily liveable. Now, it absolutely CRUSHES the holeshot."

Yes, what a CRUSHER. It can do 10`s stock, definitely. Car and Driver did it at 11 secs flat, so....and yet it delivers an amazing 17 city/ 25 hwy.....

That PDK is such a masterpiece.

You get what you pay for? For $30-40k more than the ZR1? I won`t go into that, but I am sure is one heck of a ride!!!

Okay, the 911 in either configuration is awesome. It is also way too expensive for most enthusiast. Yet, the 911 is highly rated for reliability, and a lesser model should still be fantastic. Is there a smart way to purchased a used 911 s in its "sweet spot" after some serious depreciation?

Secondly, I bet a major service is at frequent mileage intervals and involves pulling the whole motor and replacing all the belts and hoses and other consumables, and for a lot of money. How much does that run to keep it in top shape?

Do you guys have no mercy? I can't believe they allow press cars to be test-driven with such low mileage!

Also, I think you failed to mention that both Porsches tested had what appears to be the optional ceramic/PCCB brakes installed, not to mention active engine mounts?

Pretty amazing what DSG, aka dual-clutch transmissions can do acceleration wise, especially with an extra gear, i.e. closer ratios.

Where's the video!

Good thing IL's free, or I'd cancel my subscription asap! I would think testing these two cars together, on the same day no less, would also warrant a somewhat more in-depth article, too!

" sgude says:

10:28 AM, 03/17/10

On I-10 outside Escondido, CA., in 1989, I came up on a 944 Turbo at about 85 mph. I flashed my lights to pass, and the guy looks in his mirror. He grinned, downshifted, and after a slight puff of smoke, proceeded to leave me gasping in his exhaust fumes. "

A 944 turbo did that to you? What the heck were you in, a Corolla or something? 944's, even the turbos, were pretty damned slow.

"How much does that run to keep it in top shape?"

It's not cheap, but I do think it's worth it. Once again, finding a good indie Porsche tech(as opposed do going to the dealer and grabbing your ankles) will significantly reduce the upkep costs. And, like any used performance car, a PPI is a mandatory investment.

"Likewise I could say that the ZR-1, with 140 more hp and less weight, should do something better than a 911.."

The hp and weight of the ZR-1 are engineering accomplishments. That is common sense. Saying "the ZR1 should be better because it weighs less and has more hp" is pretty ridiculous if you are trying to insult the car.

Spare me the interior comments, I'm not impressed by the interior of any Porshe except the Panamera. The ZR1 and 911 both have plastic and leather inside. Both interiors work just fine. The 911 has better seats though so perhaps that is worth $30k.

"Yes, what a CRUSHER. It can do 10`s stock, definitely. Car and Driver did it at 11 secs flat, so....and yet it delivers an amazing 17 city/ 25 hwy....."

The EPA numbers are impressive but C&D's test showed the car was only slighty more efficient than the ZR1 which is rated at 13/20 I believe. I think the 911 averaged 14-15mpg in their test vs about 12-13 for the Vette.

"But, as C&D also showed, performance isn't everything."

Performance isnt everything when shopping for a FWD family sedan but its everything in this class of car. The bottom line is the 911 is a more expensive car that is easier to push hard, its not a superior car based on performance. Based on its specs and AWD drivetrain its closest competitor is still the GTR which is still WAY cheaper while delivering about 99% of the Porsche's performance.

I'm eagerly awaiting the day GM finally puts a F1 style tranny in it's cars. When that happens, things will definitely get interesting.

@Edmunds.....as someone asked above....can you guys post some videos of your acceleration and testing runs? I think ALL of us will enjoy that awesomeness!

The only time I can run all out is at the 1/4 mile dragstrip......and there is only one curve there. LOL

I'm going to have to seat test both cars to decide which is best. Maybe throw in a magazine race as well...

No GT2?

This is the one I actually like out of the three.. Can you re-do this comparo again and add a third car? A GT2? I have to actually e-convince myself about which one is the best, then I can go test drive them all and "feel" which one really is the best.

And I looks like the Turbo is reaching "Perfection" level already... what can I say, 2.9 seconds... 11.1 1/4 mile... Wow.

But something tells me I'd still choose either a GT3 or a GT2, they seem like the actual ultimate performance machine... why is Porsche dethroning their track king? Cause this Turbo with PDK would run circles around the GT3/GT2 at the track, I assume by the numbers?

You guys should post videos of this track tests.

some unbelievable stats. Can't go wrong with Porsche..

I'll take a 911 Turbo, please, even though its $20,000. plus, at that price, if you can afford to buy a $112,000 car, you can afford to buy a $132,000 car with out pinching pennies. the GT3 is too unrefined, to be honest.

jm1212 says: the GT3 is too unrefined, to be honest.

You betcha. That is the entire point. Not only can i use it on track days, but this car does nicely on the street. But it comes into its own on the track. I sometimes cannot believe how fast i can go through a corner. I sounds great. it feels great. and it can go like some serious stink.

some cars generate great test number. They look great on paper. A car is so much more than a set of test numbers. how can you test for the feel of a car, or so may other very important intangibles? Not that the turbo (or heck the GTR or any corvette or whatever) is a bad car. It depends on the application and what you want out of it. I own a 996 gt3 and it puts a poo-eating grin on my face every time i turn the key. It is a car that makes you work and concentrate, one that demands some serious respect, and one that is about as rewarding as anything on 4 wheels.

Holy cow 911 turbo is unbelievably fast! Those crazy Germans! That's just mind blowing.

I don't know why there is a whole Porsche vs Gtr vs Zr1 argument. They're all aimed at different markets/ demographics. Porsche is usually aimed towards nouveau riche or white haired old people. Corvettes on the other hand, driven by fat, bold middle aged men with midlife crisis. Gtr-? Usually bought by young hippies or white collar workers who can afford it. Not a lot of people will be cross shopping Porsche with nissan or gm products. Porsche is aimed at a market who'll be cross shopping it with other exotic cars like ferraris and lambos.
There is more to life than performance on paper, such as ride, design, exclusivity, fun factor etc. Porsche will be a Porsche at the end of the day, while GTR still gonna be a nissan and ZR1 or CTS-V will still going to be a GM.
Besides, value for money or performance for money type of comparisons are ridiculous in exotic car market. Sure, you could buy ten 911 turbos for a price of Veyron, but does that mean Veyron has to be 10 times faster?

"It is a car that makes you work and concentrate, one that demands some serious respect, and one that is about as rewarding as anything on 4 wheels. "

Exactly. I like a track car that takes some talent to drive fast. It can be fast or slow, but driver involvement is the key.

bmwlover:

We've heard all the "no one compares these cars" arguments a million times. You cant make those claims with any certainty. The Zr1 and 911 are going to be compared because they are similar in performance and somewhat close in price. There arent many sports cars delivering this kind of performance so its only natural that the few that exist will be compared. If you are rich and want a car that can blow 99% of the cars on the road out of the water in terms of performance you might be interested in a ZR1 or 911. While image may be key for people driving a $50k Lexus I would think anyone who can afford a $120k Corvette could really care less about what folks at the country club have to say. There arent a lot of middle aged, low class, balding men with gold chains who are going to be able to drop $120k for a Corvette. I would think anyone who could afford any of these cars would have to have some sort of intelligence and a hefty list of accomplishments. Most drivers of Corvettes that I see are middle aged white guys- the same demographic I see driving Porches, M5s, S5s, etc. I'm not sure how you can determine who is sophisticated and who is a few months removed from the trailer park just by looking.

LOL, e34bmwlover's comment about Corvettes might bring some ... heated comments. ;)

Reminds me of this sweet GT2 I saw a kid (must be in his 20's) a couple of years ago in Boston (coming out of Best Buy in Watertown) -- aside from the raging jealousy, I was quite impressed with the beautiful noise it made.

Amazing machines.

The Gallardo kills the 911 Turbo on Forza3! It's only $100K more, which shouldn't be a problem if you're buying in this league. There is that Porsche reliability... No, I think you'd have to choose Gallardo.

e34bmwlover:

"Porsche will be a Porsche at the end of the day, while GTR still gonna be a nissan and ZR1 or CTS-V will still going to be a GM."

Well, I hate to correct a smart, sophisticated guy like yourself, but I think you mean "a Porsche will be a VW".

I'm sorry, am I missing something here? The Fastest car you've EVER tested? WTH?
The Bugatti is 0-60 in 2.5 seconds and quarter of 10.2
The Hennessy Viper 2.3 seconds 0-60, 9.75 in the Quarter.

The list goes on. Is it just because YOU haven't tested these vehicles? I am unclear. The statement is bold and rather ridiculous. Price is not a consideration here because the statement wasn't "The fastest car for price X."

And for the Corvette defenders... WHO CARES. No one on planet earth except obese mid west house wives, retired Reserve Army Captains, and ex, retired Union Welders are impressed, or care, about a Corvette. A cheap built clown car with Kit car looks, squeaks, rattles, a horrid suspension and a poor market image. I've owned them. Owned GTS Vipers, etc. I can say, the Vette is one of the most embarrassing cars ever produced in this country. As a former owner, I have the qualifications to make these remarks. Want to know how many times both the Viper and the Vette were in the shop? The cacophony of road roar, sudden jumps over pavement irregularities? Vetes and Vipers are quite literally the Walmart of Cars.
A Vette could be the fastest car on planet earth and still no one would care. Even if you blew the doors off a Porsche, there's one important fact at the end of the day; You're still in a Vette and the Porsche driver probably forgot about you .0002 seconds after the race ended. Certainly his wife didn't notice nor care. She went home with the guy in the Porsche.

So, the "finest auto engineering company in the world" turns out a $150,000 car after 2 years of work that nips an $80,000 Nissan by an eyelash. Is that a victory?

I'm really tired of those who compare the ZR1 to the Porsche for anything beyond performance as the ZR1 really lacks artistic design and the timeless beauty of the Porsche. The ZR1 is not an attractive vehicle. I realize what GM is up against, and I appreciate that; however, that doesn't help the looks of the ZR1. Excellent performance but struggling looks sums up my opinion of the ZR1. Please don't make it out to be anything else.

Hennessey has a kit for the GTR as well. You can get it installed for about $24k and then have 700hp and blow the doors off all the competition. Then you are still about $15k less than the ZR-1 and much less than anything else.

Hennessey has a kit for the GTR as well. You can get it installed for about $24k and then have 700hp and blow the doors off all the competition. Then you are still about $15k less than the ZR-1 and much less than anything else.