Porsche did keep part of the project alive showing a concept car at the 2000 Geneva Motor Show, mainly in an attempt to draw attention to their display. Surprising interest in the vehicle and an influx of revenue provided from the Cayenne helped Porsche decide to produce the car, and development started on a road-legal version that would be produced in small numbers at Porsche’s new manufacturing facility in Leipzig. Porsche started a production run of this astonishing super car in 2004 and the first Carrera GT went on sale in the US the same year.
Only 1,270 examples of the model left the Porsche manufacturing facility in Leipzig, Germany, where 70 highly qualified specialists assembled the vehicle on an assembly line in eight stages. Porsche itself described the Carrera GT as a car ‘suitable for everyday use that is based on thoroughbred race car technology’. The 5.7 litre V10 naturally-aspirated engine delivered a maximum output of 612 bhp at 8,000 rpm, and accelerated from zero to 124 mph in just 9.9 seconds, with a top speed of 205 mph.
The Carrera GT also heralded a new construction concept in road and racing vehicles – both the monocoque and the entire subframe were made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic, delivering optimum strength and weight characteristics. An automated rear wing spoiler deployed above 70 mph, while the roof system consisted of two individual carbon fibre lightweight shells which could be stored in the front luggage compartment. Other features included a specially-developed six-speed manual transmission with Porsche’s race-calibre Ceramic Composite Clutch, and a carbon fibre-reinforced Silicon Carbide ceramic composite brake system. Traction control, air conditioning, GPS navigation and a Bose audio system were standard equipment.
Equipment
C13 EU Supplied, Basalt Black Metallic, Black Leather, Stronger Battery, BOSE Sound, GT Bucket Seats, Leather Steering Wheel, Beechwood Gear Lever, Traction Control, Air Conditioning, Porsche Online Pro CD Radio, Electric Windows.
EXTERIOR
An era defining analogue Hypercar – the Carrera GT’s low-slung body represents a design triumph that optimises airflow with large ducts in the front bumper and enormous mid mounted intakes that tie beautifully into the door line. Basalt black provides a generous metallic flake throughout that comes alive in natural light; a luxurious lustre that lifts the dynamic profile to new heights. Prepared and protected with Full PPF the car is in exemplary condition.
At the business end LED tail lights, serrated twin exhausts and a large diffuser combine to provide both substance and style. A standout design element features an engine cover with perforated stainless steel panels serving as huge air vents dispersing the heat created by the car’s potent powerplant.
INTERIOR
All wrapped in high-quality Natural Dark Grey leather and with galvanized magnesium panels on the centre console, the dashboard and Y-shaped inserts on the door cards – this cockpit oozes luxury. The condition of this focused cabin space is first class with the model specific Recaro kevlar seats retaining excellent colour and contour whilst wheel and 917-derived gear knob show little to no wear. The gear position is almost sequential – like in it’s proximity to the wheel ensuring a snag up or down the ‘box is just moments away.
A unique and individual feature on this Carrera GT is the hounds tooth seat inserts, a custom aftermarket addition and nod to Porsche heritage along side its wooden gear knob. The exposed carbon weave on the centre tunnel, door sills and door cards truly represents the DNA of the car – a lightweight blueprint built with the best materials available at the time.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
Porsche withdrew from its role as a Formula 1 engine supplier with the Footwork team while a brand new V10 was under development. The engine was adapted and developed further for a Le Mans prototype only to find that project was cancelled too! Trying to find a good use for the orphaned 10 cylinder, executives decided it would be perfect for a forthcoming flagship supercar – the CGT was born. Thankfully, a manual gearbox was selected to harness the enormous power and torque providing a whole new level of engagement and excitement. The last clutch reading was measured at 29.84 mm – 65% of life remaining.
Like Supercars of yesteryear, the feel for certain mechanical nuance takes time and respect; there is nothing as rewarding as a CGT when you find that rhythm.
WHEELS, TYRES & BRAKES
Wheel design is always key to Supercar form and function and these lightweight Centrelock 5 spoke alloys look easily at home on the road or track. 19 inch at the front and 20 inch at the rear, all wheels remain spotless as do the anodised wheel hub nuts, blue on the right, red on the left side distinguishing thread direction.
Porsche brakes are the reference in almost every sports car test and for a production car the performance of the CGT is simply astonishing. Having first launched on the 996 Turbo the evolution of PCCB reached new heights in terms of feel and durability with this Halo model.
HISTORY FILE
This European supplied CGT was delivered new in April of 2004 with AC, Becker CD Pro and a stronger battery in April of 2004 and first registered in the UK in 2005.
The car left the UK in 2007 and remained with a sole custodian in Europe up until 2020 where DK Engineering re-imported to the UK and sold to it’s current enthusiast owner.
Service Intervals;
19.07.07 – Porsche Zentrum Berlin – 6,259 miles – Minor Service
26.11.07 – Porsche Boras – 8,128 miles – Battery
18.04.08 – Porsche Centre Stockholm – 8,372 miles – Major Service
12.01.09 – Porsche Centre Stockholm – 11,010 miles – Tyres
16.07.09 – Porsche Zentrum Berlin – 12,564 miles – Major inc Clutch
16.01.15 – Porsche Zentrum Berlin – 15,730 miles – Major inc Radiators and Pipework
01.02.17 – Porsche Centre Stockholm – 16,105 miles – Minor
28.06.18 – Porsche Centre Berlin – 16,355 miles – Shock Absorbers
15.06.20 – DK Engineering – 16,587 miles – Major
31.05.22 – Porsche Reading – 16,717 miles – Minor inc Battery
Having always received meticulous maintenance work the car is booked and will be supplied having had it’s factory recall alongside a complimentary minor service, new tyres and 12 months MOT by Porsche Reading.
The full book pack, corresponding invoices for work completed and spare key are all present in the history file. Low mileage, well maintained CGT’s are a rare thing especially allied with this exceptional colour combination – this is a very special car.