The Porsche 997.2 Carrera S Cabriolet combines the 3.8-litre DFI engine with 385 hp, rear-wheel drive and open-top motoring. With PASM as standard and the automatic fabric roof, it is the sweet spot for open-air 997.2 driving below the GTS.
Specifications
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Production Period | 2008–2012 |
| Engine Type | 3.8L flat-six, DFI, MA1.01 |
| Displacement | 3,800 cm³ |
| Power | 385 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 4,400 rpm |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 7-speed PDK |
| 0–100 km/h | 4.8 s (manual) / 4.6 s (PDK) |
| Top Speed | ~299 km/h |
| Roof | Electric fabric soft top with glass rear window |
| Kerb Weight | 1,515 kg (manual) / 1,535 kg (PDK) |
| Fuel Tank | 67 litres |
| Emissions Standard | Euro 5 |
Highlights
The 385 hp S engine, standard PASM, bigger brakes than the base car and the full open-air experience. All the everyday reliability of the 997.2 with added power and presence.
Common Issues
- Soft-top motor and hydraulics can leak or jam with age
- Roof fabric fades; seams can tear and drain channels block, causing footwell water
- Rear window delamination on early or neglected tops
- Early PDK software versions can feel jerky
- Front coolant pipes prone to corrosion
- Condensation in taillights due to faulty seals
Maintenance
| Task | Interval |
|---|---|
| Oil Change | Yearly or every 15,000–20,000 km |
| Spark Plugs | Every 4 years |
| Brake Fluid | Every 2 years |
| PDK Service | Every 60,000 km |
| Coolant | Every 6 years |
| Soft-top inspection | Annually |
Market Analysis (as of 2025)
- Roughly 10–12% under the S Coupé
- Good condition: CHF 46,000–58,000
- Low mileage: CHF 60,000–68,000
Buying Considerations
- Cycle the roof fully up and down several times
- Check for interior water damage and musty smell
- Inspect top fabric, seals and drain channels
- Confirm wind deflector present
- Full service history with invoices
- Check for accident damage, especially front-end
FAQ
Cabriolet or Coupé?
The Cabriolet trades a little torsional rigidity and roughly 70 kg of weight for open-air driving. The Coupé is the purist choice; the Cabriolet is the one to have for sunny roads and touring.
Is the soft top reliable?
Yes, if maintained. Cycle it fully several times on inspection and check for water ingress and fabric wear.
Does the 997.2 suffer from IMS failure?
No. The MA1 DFI engine fully resolves this issue.
Driving Experience
Strong, flexible 3.8-litre power, PASM composure and a glorious open-top soundtrack. The S Cabriolet is quick enough to thrill yet relaxed enough to tour, with the classic RWD 911 balance intact.
Comparison vs. Other 997.2 Models
- 997.2 Carrera 2S Coupé: stiffer, lighter, purist choice
- 997.2 Carrera GTS Cabriolet: 408 hp, wide body, PSE standard
- 997.2 Carrera 4S Cabriolet: AWD, wide body, all-weather