Porsche 911

vs

Porsche 911 (997)

Germany vs Germany — 1973 vs 2005

Porsche 911 (1973)
Porsche 911 (997) (2005)
Specifications
911 Carrera RS 3.0 (G-body)911 (997) GT3 RS
Horsepower230 hp450 hp
Torque203 lb-ft317 lb-ft
Engine Size2,994 cc3,797 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec3.8 sec
Top Speed155 mph193 mph
¼ Mile13.8 sec12.0 sec
Weight—3,021 lbs
Wheelbase2,272 mm2,355 mm
Length4,291 mm4,460 mm
Units Produced1092,017
Original MSRP—$132,800
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$450,000
Collectibility5/109/10
Rarity10/108/10
The Verdict

The 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.0 (G-body) counters with greater rarity, 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.

Overview

Tracing the evolution of the Porsche 911 from 1973 to 2005 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Porsche. The 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 450 hp compared to 230 hp, a 220-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 uses a Flat-6 SOHC 12V 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 5.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 109 units built, the 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.0 (G-body) is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911 (997)'s 2,017 examples. On the collector market, the 1973 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.0 (G-body) commands a significant premium over the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2005 Porsche 911 (997) GT3 RS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.