This 993 GT2 Replica is the epitome of a modern classic Porsche

When Porsche opted for water cooling in the late nineties, many were affronted. Some would go on to enjoy the merits of this technology then and there, but there’s no denying that with the 996 Carrera, the styling, size, and feel of the car had changed in an uncomfortable sort of way. Gone were the tiny windscreens, the minimalist dashboards, and the circular headlights which came to be hallmarks of the model up until that point.

The classic shape of the 993 keeps it closely in touch with the cars of yesteryear, but the aero additions of the GT2 give it a distinct character of all its own. The snorkeled spoiler, riveted-on fender flares, broad lip, and dished wheels give this car the appearance of a Group 5 racer, yet it is road legal. Perhaps like no Porsche since, the narrow-bodied, wide-hipped 993 GT2 has those odd proportions which scream “racing car” louder than any of the later, girthier GT-series Porsches can.

Without any frills or front driveshafts, the pared-down GT2 is nearly as light as a bonafide racing car at ~2,800 pounds, depending on the spec. For something so light, it boasts an outrageous amount of power for the time: first with 424 horsepower, then later with 444 after a recalibration for 1998. Considering it delivers that power through 285-section tires, unrestrained by traction control, it is not for the faint of heart. It is, in so many ways, a car which represents the last of the truly wild 911s—even its successor, the 996 GT2, was designed to understeer at the limit.

This recipe, something which isn’t often seen these days, has made these cars quite expensive. Like several we’ve reviewed on this site, this car was originally a 993 Turbo modified to GT2 specification. That may ruin it in some eyes, but the strong foundation, significant tweaking, and undeniably sexy shape make this impostor just fine with us.