Porsche 911

vs

Porsche 911

Germany vs Germany — 1996 vs 2012

Porsche 911 (1996)
Porsche 911 (2012)
Specifications
911 GT3 (996)911 GT3 RS (991)
Horsepower360 hp520 hp
Torque273 lb-ft347 lb-ft
Engine Size3,600 cc3,996 cc
0-60 mph4.3 sec3.0 sec
Top Speed188 mph194 mph
¼ Mile12.5 sec11.0 sec
Wheelbase2,355 mm2,457 mm
Length4,435 mm4,545 mm
Units Produced1,858
Value (Excellent)$160,000$400,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity6/106/10
The Verdict

The 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (991) emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1996 Porsche 911 GT3 (996) counters with 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.

Overview

The Porsche 911 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 1996 Porsche 911 GT3 (996) with the 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (991) reveals how Porsche refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (991) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 520 hp compared to 360 hp, a 160-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (991) edges ahead at 3.0 seconds versus 4.3 seconds. On the collector market, the 2012 Porsche 911 GT3 RS (991) commands a significant premium over the 1996 Porsche 911 GT3 (996), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.