2000 Porsche 911 (996.1) GT3

A rare opportunity to acquire what is understood to be the only right-hand drive Porsche 911 GT3 (996) finished in the striking and seldom-seen Islande Blu. Supplied new on 1st March 2000 via AFN Reading, this C16 UK-market example represents the very essence of Porsche’s motorsport-derived engineering, offered here with 47,000 miles recorded and in the care of its current custodian since 2018.

Conceived in the spirit of the revered Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7, the 996-generation GT3 was developed as a homologation special for international competition, most notably the FIA GT3 Cup. At its heart lies the celebrated 3.6-litre ‘Mezger’ flat-six, an engine whose lineage can be traced directly to Porsche’s endurance racing programme, including the Le Mans-winning GT1. Delivering 360bhp and revving to an exhilarating 7,800rpm, it is paired with a precise 6-speed manual transmission, ensuring a driving experience of rare purity and engagement.

Lightweight by design at just 1,350kg, the Mk1 GT3 combined enhanced suspension, uprated braking and split-rim alloys to deliver performance of the highest order, achieving 0–60mph in just 4.8 seconds and a top speed approaching 188mph. Celebrated by the motoring press, it was named Car of the Year by Evo magazine in 1999 and continues to be revered as one of the most engaging driver’s cars of the modern era.

Of the 1,886 examples produced worldwide, just 106 were supplied to the UK, making this already rare model all the more desirable. Chassis #691230 is further distinguished by its Paint-to-Sample (L999) Islande Blu finish – believed to be unique among UK-delivered cars – and a highly appealing factory specification. This includes a rear half roll cage, carbon bucket seats, Schroth harnesses, air-conditioning and the extended leather pack, complemented by carbon fibre detailing to the centre console, instrument surround and seat backs.

The car is accompanied by its original owner’s wallet, handbook and stamped service book, alongside a comprehensive history file containing invoices and previous MOT Certificates. Maintenance has been diligent, with no fewer than 16 recorded services up to 46,391 miles, and fewer than 1,500 miles covered since. Notably, new brake discs and pads were fitted all round in 2018 at a cost exceeding £2,200.

It is worth noting that the car was the subject of an insurance claim in 2019 and recorded as Category S. Following this, it was professionally repaired and has since returned to the road, continuing to be enjoyed and maintained to a high standard.

A ‘one-of-one’ example by virtue of its specification, this early 996 GT3 Mk1 represents a compelling proposition for the discerning collector or enthusiast. Combining rarity, provenance and an unfiltered driving experience, it stands as a landmark model in the evolution of Porsche’s GT lineage. This is an exceptional motor car.