West Germany vs Germany — 1978 vs 2005
| 911 SC Targa | 911 (997) GT3 RS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 450 hp |
| Torque | 196 lb-ft | 317 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,994 cc | 3,797 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 3.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 146 mph | 193 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.8 sec | 12.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,557 lbs | 3,021 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,272 mm | 2,355 mm |
| Length | 4,291 mm | 4,460 mm |
| Units Produced | 58,914 | 2,017 |
| Original MSRP | $27,450 | $132,800 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $450,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 9/10 |
| Rarity | 4/10 | 8/10 |
The 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Porsche 911 SC lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa with the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS reveals how Porsche refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 450 hp compared to 180 hp, a 270-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 SC uses a Flat-6 SOHC displacing 2,994 cc, while the Porsche 911 (997) relies on a Flat-6 DOHC with 3,797 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS edges ahead at 3.8 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. The Porsche 911 SC carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 464 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,017 units built, the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911 SC's 58,914 examples. On the collector market, the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS commands a significant premium over the 1978 Porsche 911 SC Targa, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.