Ok gotta jump in here. Today I attended the Ferrari Club driving event at VIR. In addition to Ferraris and vettes, there was a brand spanking new GT3 and a 599 (more about that later). The GT3 was running sticky tires; I had the stock Good Year's. We were both in the middle intermediate/novice group. Appears we ran similar lap times. I remember seeing him a couple of times behind me (maybe 1/2 mile) it seemed that I was gaining some time on him...but overall similar. I think if I would have had my Hoosiers, it would have been no contest. Now, among the Ferrari 360s, 355s, 348s, 1 older Dodge Viper, Porshe 911 Carreras, Tubos, GT3, and vettes, no one ever passed me (for 6 20-minute lapping sessions and I am very courteous on the track)....except the 599 (while I was caught in a train but in fairness to him, that car is fast!)....wow. I could catch up to him in the corners but in the front and back straights he would begin to slightly pull away from me and I was WFO! All I can say is that is one fast and beautiful car. Looks much better in person than in pics. As FYI, my GT is stock except for the transaxle cooler, Accufab exhaust, and Crow harnesses (thanks Ed, this set-up really helped me stay planted in the corners!).