The Porsche Carrera GT has long been regarded as one of the most demanding analog supercars ever built, and Chris Harris’s latest drive at Spain’s Ascari circuit reinforces exactly why. Testing the V10-powered icon in damp conditions, Harris explores the car’s razor-sharp handling, revealing how little margin for error exists when its 605-horsepower engine meets a slippery track.
Although the featured example wears modern Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, it retains its factory suspension setup. Even with the updated rubber, Harris describes the Carrera GT as intimidating, noting that the challenge is not provoking oversteer, but recovering from it. The naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V10 delivers effortless power, yet the car’s tendency to snap back abruptly if steering and throttle inputs are not perfectly synchronized demands complete concentration.
A unique characteristic of the Carrera GT is its absence of modern electronic stability control. Instead, it relies solely on a basic traction control system, making driver precision the primary safety net. Harris even points out the unfortunate placement of the traction control switch near the gear lever, suggesting it could easily be pressed accidentally during aggressive downshifts.
Despite its fearsome reputation, the Carrera GT continues to impress with its exceptional engineering. Harris praises the beautifully mechanical six-speed manual transmission, responsive hydraulic steering, powerful carbon-ceramic brakes, and remarkably linear V10, which revs eagerly to around 8,000 rpm. He also dismisses longstanding myths surrounding the car’s pioneering carbon-ceramic clutch, explaining that it behaves predictably when treated with proper mechanical sympathy.
Ultimately, the test highlights why the Carrera GT remains one of Porsche’s defining driver’s cars. Unlike more forgiving modern supercars, it rewards smooth, disciplined inputs and punishes overconfidence. On a damp circuit, its raw, uncompromising character becomes even more apparent, reminding enthusiasts why the Carrera GT continues to command immense respect more than two decades after its debut.
Source: Chris Harris on Cars
