The Porsche 997.2 Carrera 4 is the facelifted version of the 997 generation, produced from 2008 to 2012. It combines the accessibility of the base Carrera with the confidence of all-wheel drive. With a 3.6-litre DFI engine, optional PDK transmission and classic narrow-body design, the Carrera 4 offers authentic 911 character with enhanced traction and stability.
Specifications
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Production Period | 2008–2012 |
| Engine Type | 3.6L flat-six, DFI, MA1.01 |
| Displacement | 3,614 cm³ |
| Bore x Stroke | 96.0 mm × 82.8 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VarioCam Plus |
| Power | 345 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 4,400 rpm |
| Redline | 7,400 rpm |
| Top Speed (manual) | 287 km/h |
| Top Speed (PDK) | 285 km/h |
| 0–100 km/h | 5.0 s (manual) / 4.9 s (PDK) |
| Quarter Mile | ~13.2 s |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive (AWD) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 7-speed PDK |
| Final Drive Ratio | 3.44 (PDK) |
| Suspension (front) | MacPherson struts, anti-roll bar |
| Suspension (rear) | Multi-link, anti-roll bar |
| Brakes | 318 mm vented discs front / 299 mm rear |
| Steering | Hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion |
| Wheels | 18-inch alloy wheels (19″ optional) |
| Tyres | 235/40 ZR18 (F) / 265/40 ZR18 (R) |
| Length | 4,443 mm |
| Width (excl. mirrors) | 1,808 mm |
| Height | 1,310 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,350 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1,495 kg (manual) / 1,515 kg (PDK) |
| Fuel Tank | 67 litres |
| Luggage Capacity | ~135 litres (front trunk) |
| Cd (drag coefficient) | 0.30 |
| Fuel Type | Super Plus / 98 RON |
| Fuel Consumption (combined) | 10.0–10.4 l/100 km |
| CO₂ Emissions | ~235 g/km |
| Emissions Standard | Euro 5 |
Highlights
The 997.2 generation introduced the MA1 engine, eliminating previous IMS bearing issues. Other improvements include the PCM 3.0 infotainment system, updated electronics, PDK transmission, and LED taillights. The Carrera 4 model combines the accessibility of the base engine with all-wheel drive for enhanced grip in all conditions while maintaining the classic narrow-body proportions.
Common Issues
- Early PDK software versions can feel jerky
- Battery drain if parked without a trickle charger
- Condensation in taillights due to faulty seals
- PCM 3.0 may freeze or respond slowly
- Front coolant pipes prone to corrosion
- AWD system adds complexity (though generally reliable)
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 |
| AWD System Check | During regular service intervals |
Market Analysis (as of 2025)
- High mileage (>130,000 km): CHF 37,000–44,000
- Good condition (90,000–120,000 km): CHF 47,000–57,000
- Low mileage (<80,000 km): CHF 60,000–70,000
- Collector condition (<50,000 km): CHF 72,000+
Manuals and rare colours fetch a premium. AWD adds slight value over base Carrera.
Buying Considerations
- Full service history with invoices
- Check for accident damage, especially front-end
- Test PCM functionality (incl. nav & Bluetooth)
- Inspect exhaust for rust
- Listen for knocking from suspension
- Test AWD engagement in different conditions
FAQ
Does the 997.2 suffer from IMS failure?
No. The MA1 engine fully resolves this issue.
Is AWD worth it over the base Carrera?
Yes, especially for year-round driving or in challenging weather conditions. The confidence is worth the small performance penalty.
Manual or PDK?
Personal preference. PDK is quicker and easier to live with. Manuals offer more involvement and are increasingly rare.
Good investment?
The Carrera 4 offers excellent value with AWD capability, making it increasingly desirable as weather patterns become more unpredictable.
Driving Experience
Excellent steering feedback with the added confidence of all-wheel drive. The naturally aspirated 3.6-litre engine provides smooth, progressive power delivery. AWD enhances traction in wet conditions and provides reassuring stability, making it an excellent year-round sports car without compromising the classic 911 character.
Optional Equipment & Desirability Factors
- PASM adaptive suspension (transforms the car’s dynamics)
- Sport Chrono Plus (Launch Control, sharper throttle)
- 19″ wheels (significant visual and handling upgrade)
- Sports exhaust (PSE)
- Adaptive sport seats
- Full leather interior
- Navigation system
- Paint to Sample (PTS) colours
Option Codes Explained
Popular option codes for the 997.2 Carrera 4 include:
- 025 – Black-faced stopwatch
- 026 – Silver-faced stopwatch
- 030 – Sports suspension (-20 mm)
- 040 – Without front license plate bracket
- 070 – European emission standard
- 140 – PADM – dynamic engine mounts
- 250 – PDK dual-clutch gearbox
- 267 – Auto dimming mirrors
- 268 – Rain sensor
- 342 – Seat heating (front)
- 375 – Left sport seat
- 376 – Right sport seat
- 407 – 19″ Turbo wheels
- 408 – 19″ SportDesign wheels
- 446 – Wheel caps with colored crest
- 454 – Cruise control
- 476 – PSM Porsche Stability Management
- 480 – 6-speed manual transmission
- 490 – Sound Package Plus
- 567 – Top-tinted windscreen
- 573 – Automatic air conditioning
- 603 – PDLS (dynamic lights)
- 605 – LED daytime running lights
- 610 – Navigation system Europe
- 635 – ParkAssist (rear)
- 640 – Sport Chrono Package Plus
- 650 – Sunroof
- 666 – Telephone module
- 670 – Universal audio interface (AUX/USB/iPod)
- 680 – Bose sound system
- 810 – Floor mats
- 870 – Universal multimedia interface
- 951 – Leather dashboard and door panels
- 981 – Leather dashboard and centre console
- X71 – Aluminium-look instrument dials
- X73 – PASM adaptive suspension
- X54 – Stainless steel tailpipes
- X70 – Stainless steel door entry guards
- X97 – Aluminium gear lever
- X98 – Aluminium handbrake lever
Full option list decoding services available via VinAnalytics.com.
Colour & Trim Guide
Popular exterior colours: Basalt Black, Meteor Grey, Guards Red, Carrera White.
Rare PTS colours: Riviera Blue, Speed Yellow, Oak Green Metallic.
Interiors: Black standard, Sand Beige, Cocoa optional – often with trim in aluminium or carbon.
Production Numbers & Rarity
Approx. 18,000 Carrera 4 Coupés produced globally. Less common than the base Carrera but more available than S variants. Well-optioned examples with PASM and Sport Chrono are particularly desirable.
Ownership Experience
Excellent year-round daily driver with the added confidence of AWD. Reliable cold starts, comfortable ride, and enhanced traction in wet or winter conditions. Perfect for drivers who want 911 character with added practicality and security.
What to Look For When Buying
- Complete maintenance records
- Inspect for oil leaks, clutch wear (manual), underbody condition
- Check tire DOT codes and wear patterns (AWD can mask alignment issues)
- Test AWD engagement on different surfaces
- Verify function of all electronics
- Look for key options: PASM, 19″ wheels, Sport Chrono
Insurance & Running Costs
Slightly higher costs than base Carrera due to AWD complexity.
Annual maintenance costs: CHF 1,100–1,400.
Tires: CHF 800–1,200 (18″) / CHF 1,000–1,400 (19″).
PDK service: CHF 800–1,000.
Taxes vary by region.
Comparison vs. Other 997.2 Models
- 997.2 Carrera: RWD, lighter, slightly cheaper to maintain
- 997.2 Carrera S: more power, larger brakes, PASM standard, RWD
- 997.2 Carrera 4S: more power, wider body, larger brakes
- 997.2 GTS: significantly more power and equipment
- 997.2 GT3: track-focused, less practical
The Carrera 4 offers the best compromise between accessibility, year-round capability and authentic 911 character – ideal for drivers who prioritize confidence over ultimate performance.