2004 Ferrari Challenge Stradale vs. 2004 Porsche GT3 Verdict

Verdict
This kind of car should make you scream "Holy Thit" and reach for a cigarette, even if you don't smoke. Based on that criterion--assuming cost is no object--the Challenge Stradale carries the vote.

Anyone who thinks Ferraris have gotten soft, or somehow strayed too far from the racebred purposefulness set forth by those classic 250 SWBs and GTOs of the past, need only take a CS out for a Sunday morning mind-clearer. It screams excitement--literally and figuratively--from every bolt and grommet. Unless your last name is Andretti, this cavallino rampante is likely a better driver than you are. The only thing that could be more thrilling is an Enzo, but they're $650K--and sold out.

This declaration doesn't make the Porsche any sort of loser, although it doesn't peg the passionmeter like the Ferrari does. The GT3 virtually matches the Challenge Stradale's performance, winning some track-test categories, and giving up a few. It's not as wild a child from a visceral standpoint, but it too is a committed driver's car. This may be the best, most-focused (and best-sounding) naturally aspirated 911 since the rare and magical Carrera RS 2.7 of 1973--and, by the way: If cost is an object, please note that the Porsche GT3 will extract around 45-percent less cash from your stash than will the Ferrari.

If you've ever doubted the expression "racing improves the breed," take it from us that the Ferrari Challenge Stradale and the Porsche GT3 are living, driving, magnificent proof that this is as true a statement as was ever spoken.