2004 Porsche Carrera GT review from North America

Clutch required replacement within the first 1,000 miles due to bad driving habits.

I am lucky enough to have a half relative who owns this incredible example of Porsche fury. He bought the car for 660,000 dollars. (includes dealer mark up).

The first time I saw the GT I was blown away. This thing was literally a masterpiece of engineering. I knew the car would be stunning, but nothing could have prepared me for what I saw. The body is sculpted in a beautiful manner; the car itself is a work of art. The Carrera GT is definitely the embodyment of all Porsche knows about going fast. But enough about looks, I know you want to hear about the driving.

I was fortunate enough to get to ride in and drive the car. Let me start off by saying that this car is LOUD. When the engine starts up you will find yourself wondering if you're listning to a Le Mans racer or a street legal car. It's loud just idleing. Once you drive the car past 3,000 rpm, be prepared to cover your ears. The beast howls like a demon outa hell. Full throttle 0-60 launches are a revalation unless you have a JATO rocket strapped to the back of your car. You are thrown back into your seat, left with only the aluminum door handle to hang on to. I wouldn't dispute Porsche's claim of a 3.8 second 0-60.

This car can be thrown into hairpins at 90 miles per hour and not complain one bit. However, do this and you'll find your passenger curled up in a ball scared out of their mind.

The clutch, despite rants, is actually not that bad to operate. Just let it out really really carefully though, because otherwise you'll stall the car.

Dip into the throttle and you'll find a frightning reserve of rev happy Porsche power, accompanied by a menacing snarl from the rear. Need to get away from that pesky sportbike in the rearview? Simply nail the throttle and he'll find himself wondering what the silver mass was that just disappeared into the next turn at 100 MPH. Hit the massive ceramic brakes going into the next turn and you'll find yourself choked by the seatbelt holding you in as your speedo sweeps counter clockwise.

Nothing I say illustrates the incredible rush I get when I see and hear the car in motion. Automotive refinery at its best. Porsche Carrera GT. There is No Substitute.