This 996 GT3 Clubsport may not look unusual at first glance, but closer inspection reveals it’s led a storied life few track cars have the privilege of living. In his trusty steed, owner Nick has put in nearly 1,000 laps at the Nurburgring and 3,000 laps at Spa-Francorchamps, and most of the remainder of the car’s ~186,000 mile-life has been spent on the track.
Predictably, the car has been through its fair share of renovations and setbacks. Currently, it’s running its third Mezger motor—and this one is effectively a 997’s 4.0-liter motor. Built by Fearnsport, this screaming motor sends its 400+ horsepower through a 997.2 gearbox with shorter ratios. As you’d imagine, it’s plenty quick in a straight line.
It’s also received the following modifications over its fifteen-year development:
- Nitron 3-way coilovers
- Uber9s brakes front/Alcon brakes rear
- full monoball suspension
- carbon frunk, roof, and rear bumper
- OZ Rally wheels wrapped in Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R rubber
- M&M exhaust (a particularly raucous example)
Like a proper Porsche, it looks understated but shows evidence of a long, hard life. Some of those modifications are for longevity, and some are for speed. Nick’s clearly concerned with having both by the way he guides this 996 around the Nurburgring; his economical, smooth driving style is why this vehicle has lasted as long as it has. Nick avoids hopping the curbs, plans his passes several corners in advance, and generally avoids big slides. A benign, neutral balance goes a long ways here, as does the sensational engine.
However, it also sounds like Nick has seen his fair share of vehicular horror and has done his best to avoid any nightmares with this car. So, if this vehicle represents anything, it’s that a delicate touch, the right parts, and a little circumspection can give a GT3 owner decades of laughter and thrills.
