porsc992

TL;DR - I'm at a crossroads choosing between two Porsche 911 models for my first-ever purchase of this iconic car, aiming to keep it for a lifetime and eventually pass it down to my son. I have the opportunity to acquire either a T model (scheduled for a May build) or a GTS model (with a June build). I'm seeking advice to guide my decision, based on the following preferences and considerations:

Priorities:
- I'm looking for a thrilling driving experience that emphasizes the car's sound, responsiveness, and the overall connection I feel with the vehicle.
- The car will be mainly used for leisure drives along scenic routes like the Pacific Coast Highway and for occasional weekend canyon runs.
- I plan to take the car on a track day once a year.

Lower Priorities:
- Horsepower and torque are not my main concerns (the T should have enough power, right?)
- Price difference is not a major issue, with my T model build priced at $160k and the GTS at $210k.

Desired Features:
- A special color is important to me; I can get Shark Blue (SB) for the T model, but not for the GTS, which is a significant consideration. ICM or I guess Black for GTS?
- Manual transmission.
- Lightweight Bucket (LWB) seats + rear seat delete, aerokit (black), PCCB if I choose the GTS, FAL, and carbon fiber elements like the roof and mirrors.

Why Not a GT3?
Because pending close to or over $300k on a car feels somewhat irresponsible to me. I'd rather invest that extra money in the stock market, real estate, or more BTC.

Additional Context:
- I've test driven the GTS with a manual transmission and found it highly engaging and fun. I've also driven a 4s with a PDK transmission (stage 2 tune), which, despite being extremely fast, lacked the sound and engagement I'm looking for after a few hours. I'm planning to test drive the T model Monday to see if it lives up to the hype. Some say the T are a dime a dozen...

Given all this, I'm torn between the immersive driving experience and special features of the T model versus the GTS's potential for excitement and engagement. What do you think will better suit my needs, the T or the GTS? What would you recommend in my situation?

brandobot

I personally went with a GTS as I felt it had a more exclusive options like race-tex, center locks, turbo brakes and wheels, and had more power. Historically the GTS models also retain value well too!

I’m also jealous you can have the option for either! I hunted near and far for a GTS and was only able to secure an allocation after paying $10,000 ADM.

3rdpedal

Given your situation the GTS is the hands down answer. It has just a bit more, and for the length of time you plan to keep it. Consider Chalk or China or Nardo Grey. Another consideration for a classic look would be Carmine Red.

CurryPuff

Another vote for GTS, but I'd confirm the SB for the T again. My build was initially locking on Feb 28/29 with build commencing March 12th.SB was my first choice and was unavailable.
The build wouldn't go to V200 with it. I chose IGM and after seeing it in person, I liked it enough to continue with it.

Chefboylee

if money isn't an issue then go for the gts, i was in a similar situation as you between the two and went for gts myself

i came from a stinger and my dad has a supra, which is probably pretty close to the feel of a T. Quick enough but always left me wanting a bit more

Wilder

GTS:
You'll spend more time on the brakes than the gas pedal.
If you like turbos, get a kick out of accelerating fast in a straight line, this is the better option for you.

T:
You'll spend more time on the gas pedal than the brakes.
If you like NA, lighter/momentum cars, and get a kick out of going fast in twisty roads, this is the better option for you.

Both great but excel at different things.
Don't fall for the noob, simple minded idea that "more (cost, HP, etc.) is better". It isn't. Buy the right tool for your preferences, environment, and intended use. GTS is great for Florida. T is great for NorCal.

The above is unbiassed. Here's my biassed opinion: Having owned over a dozen 911s of all generations and favors from aircooled to GT cars, and as someone who prefers NA, manual, and more visceral, analog experiences, the Carrera T is the only non-GT 911 that interests me. I own one now and I get a second one in a couple of weeks. My other 911s currently include a 7.2 GT3, a 7.1 GT3 RS, and a 911 ST tribute.

Nein Eleven

Huh, given that you prioritize a connection with the car for coastal and canyon drives and strongly desire Shark Blue, it really seems like the T is the answer here. In addition to SB, the T opens up the LWB and rear seat delete options, which also aren’t available on the GTS. If you ever feel like you are missing out on the GTS power, a Stage 1 tune gets you there cheaply and easily but if we are being honest with ourselves, even the T has too much power for the street.

brandobot

LWB and rear seat deletes (and lightweight package) is available for GTS as well.

HappinessProcured

GTS. No bias here whatsoever.

Cachaco

I think Shark Blue is NLA, as well as 1-2 more colors. Check with dealer first.

CZS

GTS and don't look back...

Final_Final_v4

Correct. Shark Blue is no longer available to order on any model. I believe within the next couple of weeks the last SB cars will roll off the line.

I ordered a T in September and it arrived in early January. I haven't driven a GTS, but did drive an S before ordering, and it became clear to me that for what I want out of the car, the T was a better choice.

I'm thinking this may be the case for you as well, but we'll see once you test drive the T.

Obviously there's no bad choice here....

doug_999

Vote for T because it will be about 200 lbs lighter.

M3Inline6

GTS all day over a T just like I would choose a Turbo or GT3 all day over my S if money weren’t a consideration (..and a Turbo were available with a manual transmission ).

BlackBeauty

GTS