Show Notes
What is it really like to live with a V10-powered analog masterpiece for two decades? In this episode of 9WERKS Radio, we are joined by a man who needs little introduction to the Porsche community: Mark Sumpter, founder of Paragon Porsche and a veteran of the British GT Championship.
While most Carrera GTs are treated as static financial instruments, tucked away in climate-controlled bubbles with delivery mileage, Mark’s story is the antithesis of the "investment" mindset. He has owned his silver CGT for over 20 years, experiencing everything from the initial excitement of its 2004 launch to the long-term realities of maintaining a car with a Le Mans-derived heart.
In this episode, we dive into: The Acquisition: How Mark secured his car and why he chose it over the 911 GT2s of the era. The Driving Experience: Mark describes the physical demands of the ceramic twin-plate clutch and why the 5.7L V10 remains the greatest engine ever put in a road car. Long-Term Maintenance: The reality of the "Major Service." We discuss the technical challenges of the carbon-fiber monocoque and what it takes to keep a Carrera GT in peak health after 20 years. The Market Evolution: Mark shares his perspective as a specialist dealer on how the CGT went from a "difficult sell" to a multi-million pound icon. Driven Not Hidden: Why Mark continues to take his car on European road trips and why he believes these cars "die" if they aren't driven.
Technical Deep Dive: The CGT Components
Owning a Carrera GT is a commitment to precision engineering. During the interview, Mark touches on the specific components that define the ownership experience:
The PCCC (Porsche Ceramic Composite Clutch): Why its reputation for being "difficult" is misunderstood, and how to drive it properly to ensure longevity. The Pushrod Suspension: How the racing-derived setup handles real-world B-roads. Service Requirements: From engine-out valve clearances to the specialized magnesium wheels.
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‘9WERKS Radio’ @9werks.radio is your dedicated Porsche and car podcast, taking you closer than ever to the world’s finest sports cars and the culture and history behind them.
The show is brought to you by 9werks.co.uk, the innovative online platform for Porsche enthusiasts. Hosted by Porsche Journalist Lee Sibley @9werks_lee, and 911 owner and engineer Andy Brookes @993andy, with special input from friends and experts around the industry, including you, our valued listeners.
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