Should you buy a Porsche 991.1 GT3?

“The issue centred on the engine’s connecting rod bolts,” Greig explains. “These could break, puncturing the cylinder block and leaking oil onto the hot exhaust. That’s how fires started.” After a handful of 991.1 GT3s went up in flames, Porsche issued a ‘stop driving’ notice to owners and recalled their cars.

All 785 cars produced in 2013-2014 had their engines replaced. Then, after a further problem was discovered with rocker arms in the valvetrain – leading to 12 cars being recalled for a second new motor – Porsche introduced an unprecedented 10-year/120,000-mile engine warranty. 

The cover applies worldwide and is transferable between owners. This swift response has kept 991.1 GT3 values strong and helped maintain the reputation of the GT brand. 

There were three versions of the MA1/75 engine. The earliest was E-spec, then F-spec added various modifications, including a revised cylinder head. The final G-spec motor has an uprated oil pump and new coating on the camshafts. Check the car’s service history or the sticker under the engine lid to discover which engine is fitted. Alternatively, RPM Technik can source the info using the chassis number.

The earliest examples of the 991.1 GT3 only have a couple of years of this extended engine warranty remaining. So, what next? According to Greig, it’s rarely an issue: “We reckon around 80 percent of GT3 owners took out Porsche’s extended manufacturer warranty, which stretches to 15 years or 125,000 miles”. Under this scheme, unless it has an exceptionally high mileage, even the oldest 991.1 GT3 will be covered until 2028.

Without the 15-year cover, you have two options. If your chosen car is original and has full Porsche service history, you can pay £250 for a dealer inspection, then reactivate the warranty for £1,100 a year (or £2,750 for three years). Alternatively, specialists such as RPM Technik can help. “We haven’t seen a 991.1 GT3 outside the engine warranty yet,” says Greig, “but I expect we’ll develop a kit to solve any weaknesses that appear – as we did with IMS bearings for the 996.”

Now the engine issues are sorted, a 991.1 GT3 should be as reliable as any Porsche 911. “Transmissions and interiors both stand up well to wear,” explains Greig, “but check suspension components such as the bushes and top mounts. They tend to get a workout.

“We’ve also seen a couple of cars with excess play in the rear-wheel steering motors. In general, though, GT3s are owned by enthusiasts and have been cherished.” 

Like many GT Porsches, the 991.1 GT3 simply hasn’t depreciated. It cost £100,540 when new in 2013 and is worth the same today. “Prices range from £95,000 up to £120,000,” says Greig. The 991.1 GT3 RS (500hp, more aero, more attitude), commands a premium of around £40,000. 

Final word, then: should you buy a 991.1 GT3? Yes – if you can, you probably should.