The Porsche 997.2 Carrera 4 Cabriolet adds all-wheel drive and the wider rear body to the open-top Carrera. With the 3.6-litre DFI engine and 345 hp, it is the all-weather, all-season convertible for buyers who want traction alongside open-air driving.
Specifications
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Production Period | 2008–2012 |
| Engine Type | 3.6L flat-six, DFI, MA1.01 |
| Displacement | 3,614 cm³ |
| Power | 345 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 4,400 rpm |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive (AWD) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 7-speed PDK |
| 0–100 km/h | 5.3 s (manual) / 5.2 s (PDK) |
| Top Speed | ~285 km/h |
| Roof | Electric fabric soft top with glass rear window |
| Kerb Weight | 1,565 kg (manual) / 1,585 kg (PDK) |
| Fuel Tank | 67 litres |
| Emissions Standard | Euro 5 |
Highlights
All-wheel-drive traction, the wider rear body and open-air motoring. Reassuring in poor weather, with the signature wide-hipped look and the full 911 Cabriolet experience.
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)
- Good condition: CHF 40,000–52,000
- Low mileage: CHF 54,000–62,000
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
Secure and planted thanks to AWD, with a small weight and agility penalty over the rear-drive car. Ideal for year-round open-top driving in all conditions.
Comparison vs. Other 997.2 Models
- 997.2 Carrera 4 Coupé: same drivetrain, stiffer body
- 997.2 Carrera 4S Cabriolet: 385 hp S engine
- 997.2 Carrera Cabriolet: RWD, lighter