Location: Wales (specifically Snowdonia and other parts)
Vehicle of Choice: Porsche 911 GT3
Season/Weather: August, typically wet and unpredictable weather in Wales
Key Points
Driving Experience with GT3
Weather Challenges: Need to be cautious due to Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires in rainy conditions.
Visual and Auditory Pleasure: GT3's engine (naturally aspirated 42) and its exhaust sound are highly praised for their exhilarating effects.
Performance: GT3 is balanced and offers great grip and performance, especially on smoother roads.
Scenic and Cultural Highlights in Wales
Portmeirion
Background: Created by the architect Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion is a visually stunning village designed to showcase the possibility of creating beautiful places.
Experience: Offers picturesque views, architectural beauty, and various amenities like cafes and restaurants.
General Travel Notes
Despite being focused on car adventures, the travel aspect of exploring Wales's scenic roads and cultural spots is highlighted.
Personal Preferences and Observations
Manual vs. Automatic Transmission in GT3
Previous preference was leaning towards PDK (automatic) but after experiencing the manual gearbox, the narrator expresses a renewed appreciation for the manual transmission due to its engaging nature.
Cup Holder Design Flaw
Unusual design choice by Porsche potentially encourages drivers to opt for the PDK version because the manual transmission's gear shifter interferes with the cup holder.
Final Thoughts
Despite challenging weather conditions and a minor ergonomic gripe, the Porsche 911 GT3 proves to be an exceptional vehicle for road trips, offering a blend of performance, auditory pleasure, and engagement.
The travel around Wales also highlighted the region's scenic beauty and cultural richness, making the adventure enjoyable beyond just the driving experience.