Porsche 911 GT2

The lap time says it all! The 911 GT2 was the only one of our contenders to complete a circuit in less than 60 seconds. In terms of outright pace, there is nothing to touch the stripped-out, race-inspired Porsche… but it’s only just made it into our overall top 10.

With its 523bhp twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, super-sticky tyres, adaptive damping and carbon ceramic brakes, the GT2 comes packed with hi-tech kit. But on the move, the German machine is very much an old-school supercar. Where the Lambo LP560-4 was surprisingly easy to drive, the rear-engined 911 demands respect at all times. In dry conditions, its ability on the track is devastating. The semi-slick tyres serve up staggering grip, the steering feedback is superb and the brakes are simply astounding, shedding speed as quickly as the howling 3.6-litre engine piles it on.

But the GT2 has a dark side. In the wet, you’ll need to tread carefully, as the Porsche becomes incredibly edgy – it’ll wheelspin in every gear, while only the brave should switch off the stability control. Even at its softest setting the active damping gives a jarring ride, and deep racing seats and a roll cage limit practicality. Another drawback is its £131,080 price. Alternative 911 variants are arguably more engaging for half the budget.

CLICK HERE FOR AN EXCLUSIVE ON BOARD HOT-LAP IN THE PORSCHE 911 GT2

Back to Performance Car of the Year 2008 Index