Does Technology Make More Enjoyable Supercars?

It’s bizarre to hear someone refer to the 997 GT3 as a representative of the “analog era” of supercars. Though it didn’t seem so at the time, by modern standards the GT3 is decidedly uncomplicated. Though it comes from the era of alphabet soup, its combination of traction control, PASM active suspension, and even Sports Chrono makes for more of a cup than a full meal. Compared to a car from a decade earlier, say a 993 Carrera RS, the GT3 is thoroughly modern. Compared to any car in the same segment today, it’s an exercise in minimalism. But what does that mean when comparing it to a modern supercar?

Though they emerged from under the same corporate umbrella, the Huracan and GT3 could hardly be more different. Whether comparing cylinder counts, gear counts, transmission types, or even driven wheels, the two don’t seem to align anywhere. Even as Lamborghinis migrate from being rolling style statements to having more and more track and on-road capability, the two struggle to find common ground.

To my eyes the Huracan is the most desirable modern Lambo since the Gallardo Balboni, but it’s not really my kind of car. As the reviewer points out in its effort to be accessible, it’s almost too civilized. This is an Italian wedge that can be daily driven, and driven swiftly with ease. At heart, I suppose many people fancy that a proper supercar should show some contempt for its driver. A proper supercar should try to kill you if you look at it wrong.

That is not to say that this particular GT3 is a widowmaker like a 935. Yet, in its comparative minimalism, it demands more of its driver. Having a traditional manual ‘box helps with this (though it is far from the end-all-be-all). Perhaps more importantly, it doesn’t rely as much on its electronic aids to go quickly. The traction control can be defeated with a single button press. The suspension isn’t infinitely variable. Just two wheels are driven, and they converse directly with your right foot via a 3.6L real-time translator.

In every measurable way, the Huracan is superior to the GT3. It’s faster in a straight line, has more traction, and is swifter around a track. But does that make it better?