Meeyatch1

I have an '07 E63 AMG, and have been going back and forth on what my next car will be. The heard is narrowed down to the 911 Twin Turbo, 911 GT3 or GT3 RS, and the CLK63 Black Series. One of my main concerns when considering the CLK63 Black Series is that I hate the lag in the paddle shifting of my E63 AMG, and would not want to have that in my next car choice.

So, who here has driven both aggressively and can give some firsthand feedback on how much of a difference there is between the two, if any?

rage2

The shifting is nearly identical between the 2 cars. I taught my boss to drive at the track in his '07 E63, so I've spent a lot of time with both cars. M mode is pretty much used just on the streets. At the track, it's S mode.

bmstyle

Sounds like your priority is performance in which case perhaps the black might not be the best of choices in comparison with the other choices.

Don't get me wrong, the black ain't no slouch but (to me) I feel it is more desirable due to it's rarity.

On that note, you can't go wrong with the 911 turbo or the GT3 RS.

Good luck

SMP

There is a slight difference in transmissions (mechanically and electronically) between the CLK and the E automatic transmission. The CLK shifts a touch quicker and harsher. Especially noticeable on downshifts.

Depends which model Porsche you consider. 996 TT's and 997.1 TT's have automatic transmissions, which are Mercedes Benz supplied 5 speeds with Porsche software. If you are concerned with "shift lag", they're the same as the CLK and the E. 997.2 TT's have PDK, currently the quickest and most efficient transmissions on the market. Shifts are instantaneous and have no loss in tractive torque between shifts. When "race start" is selected, it feels like being shot out of a rifle. GT3's and GT3 RS's only come in a 6 speed manual ... you're left foot and right hand determine how quick they shift . Major difference between a GT3 and a GT3 RS is the difference in flywheels and clutches ... which makes the RS less practical in stop and go traffic.

alexander stemer

I'll grant the the BS paddle response is not instantaneous. But, shifting only matters on the track, and there the S setting is excellent. I have a 996ttX50, and prefer the BS in all conditions except snow. The 997tt with pdk is quicker, but it has a funny way of channeling road and tire noise into the car, so is not a great distance car. I'm hoping the new 991 will be better, but have yet to try that. Good luck with your choice. AS

ari1856

I own an 02 996 Turbo that's pretty modded. Bilstein suspension, etc.. it's very smooth with limitless torque and fast as hell. Even on the freeway in 6th passing cars is a few seconds affair. 650HP on pump and 700 on race gas. It also out-handles most cars by a good margin.

I also have extended seat time in my father in law's 997 GT3. The GT cars are razor sharp in handling. Truly as close to a race car on the street as is feasible. But they have buckboard rides straight off the showroom floor. Press the stiff suspension setting and it's cement truck stiff. Definitely not everyone's cup of tea and not a daily driver for 99% of people. They are very rewarding to drive hard but you have to really work to wring out the most out of them (except the turbo GT cars, basically the GT2).

I think if you're thinking about a Mercedes, 911 turbo or GTx, you will be happy with a turbo. It's designed to be more comfortable. From the suspension to the engine mounts.

jenk12m

will you taking this new car to the track at all?

forhamilton

The black is one of the few cars I miss. I've owned numerous turbos. Track days in the bs are unforgettable. Perfect car.

Meeyatch1

Absolutley. I currently daily drive an NSX that does double duty as a track car for me to. Part of the reason I am looking at the cars above is because I think they would be more track oriented. Quite honestly, I do not mind the ride being firm, I want a car that is responsive to driver inputs.

It appears you have (2) of the cars I am looking into. Well done!

JAG1111

I have the BS with headers, high flow throttle bodies, Evo brakes, ECU flash, Evo diff, 2001 BMW Z8 with similar set up, had 997 08 Turbo (too soft), 1955 AH 100/4(cool, fun, slow), 2004 GT3 with full track set up (for sale) and now 2004 996 GT3 Cup car which is amazing on tracks like Daytona, Sebring, Roebleing Road, PRIR etc. Without a doubt the GT3 RS is the best track car of the lot, total connection with the car and track and incredibly fast in the twists with a set of track wheels and Michelin slicks.

My BS is a beast and very fast and fun on the street, gets A LOT of attention, but not a real good track car.

Just my opinion and experience. Hope this helps.

AMG BRED

Jag1111, where are you located?

JAG1111

Ponte Vedra Beach, between Jacksonville and St. Augustine. Chris Chapas at C2Design did all of my work on the car including some minor exterior mods as well. Really good guy and fine shop in your area. You probably know him as well.

forhamilton

I've had the opposite experience in both areas. The bs almost disappears in traffic and is at home on the dance floor. So much fun on the track.

AMG BRED

I also use Chris at C2 Design. Best shop, and awesome guy to deal with.

Meeyatch1

Thank you. Yes, that kind of first hand experience does help.