Review of the 2007 Porsche 911 GT3

In the automotive world the Porsche 911 is considered somewhat of an icon by most. It was good to start with, and over the years it's been subjected to constant refinement and development. One of the most amazing things about the car is how it sticks to its heritage. Park the new 911 beside the first 911 and you can tell they are the same car. And that's never changed.

Just looking in the GT3 resembles a "luxury" sports car with Navigation and Stereo options available, but once you slip inside, the GT3 won't let you forget its true purpose. Its stiff ride, touchy wheel and exhaust note remind you what GT3 stands for. The exterior looks the part as well, a large rear wing, front spoilers and lip give the car a racy look. Most come in bright colors, which really compliment the car.

The Porsche 911 GT3 is essentially a factory race car. It was built for the purpose of homologating the factory racing Porsches, and it shows. Just the engine note alone screams race car. The prestige of driving a GT3 doesn't come cheaply however. The base price of $106,795 quickly jumps once the options start getting tacked on. Ceramic rotors alone tack on almost nine thousand dollars, but cut stopping distance from 70 mph to only 145 feet. The Porsche isn't light at 3240 pounds, but still blasts to 60 in only 3.8 seconds and turns the quarter mile in 12 seconds. This stunning performance comes from the 415 hp engine under the fixed rear spoiler.

The handling of the GT3 impresses as well, the car is very stable and agile, but at speed it's a bit too tight. Porches engineers worked overtime on the GT3 chassis, especially getting the weight balance right, which can be a real challenge in a car with the engine sitting over the rear wheels. The steering is incredible, just like you'd expect from a Porsche, and the work put into this car really shows. This is a true driver's car. If you want a soft cushiony ride, look else wear. This car is designed to get you noticed, and get you there fast.

Once again Porsche has scored with the 911 GT3. It has all the right cues for a true sports car. Handling, looks, speed and comfort. It may cost $120,000, but if you have the money, it's worth every penny.