The Porsche 997.2 Carrera GTS is the facelifted version of the 997 generation, produced from 2010 to 2012. It represents the ultimate naturally aspirated 911 experience, bridging the gap between the S models and the GT3. With a 3.8-litre DFI engine producing 408 hp, standard Sport Chrono Plus, and exclusive GTS styling, it’s the most desirable road-going 997.2 variant.
Specifications
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Production Period | 2010–2012 |
| Engine Type | 3.8L flat-six, DFI, MA1.01 |
| Displacement | 3,800 cm³ |
| Bore x Stroke | 102.0 mm × 77.5 mm |
| Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder, VarioCam Plus |
| Power | 408 hp @ 7,300 rpm |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 4,200 rpm |
| Redline | 7,500 rpm |
| Top Speed (manual) | 306 km/h |
| Top Speed (PDK) | 304 km/h |
| 0–100 km/h | 4.2 s (manual) / 4.0 s (PDK) |
| Quarter Mile | ~12.2 s |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 7-speed PDK |
| Final Drive Ratio | 3.44 (PDK) |
| Suspension (front) | MacPherson struts, PASM Sport, anti-roll bar |
| Suspension (rear) | Multi-link, PASM Sport, anti-roll bar |
| Brakes | 350 mm vented discs front / 330 mm rear |
| Steering | Hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion |
| Wheels | 19-inch Carrera S wheels standard |
| Tyres | 235/35 ZR19 (F) / 295/30 ZR19 (R) |
| Length | 4,443 mm |
| Width (excl. mirrors) | 1,808 mm |
| Height | 1,300 mm (10mm lower) |
| Wheelbase | 2,350 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1,420 kg (manual) / 1,440 kg (PDK) |
| Fuel Tank | 67 litres |
| Luggage Capacity | ~135 litres (front trunk) |
| Cd (drag coefficient) | 0.29 |
| Fuel Type | Super Plus / 98 RON |
| Fuel Consumption (combined) | 10.5–10.9 l/100 km |
| CO₂ Emissions | ~245 g/km |
| Emissions Standard | Euro 5 |
Highlights
The GTS features the most powerful naturally aspirated engine in the 997.2 range, with 408 hp from the enhanced 3.8-litre unit. Standard equipment includes PASM Sport suspension, Sport Chrono Plus, Porsche Sports Exhaust, 19″ wheels, Alcantara interior trim, and unique GTS styling elements. It’s the last of the naturally aspirated high-performance 911s.
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
- Higher-performance engine may consume more oil
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 |
| Sports Exhaust Service | Check flaps operation regularly |
Market Analysis (as of 2025)
- High mileage (>130,000 km): CHF 65,000–75,000
- Good condition (90,000–120,000 km): CHF 80,000–95,000
- Low mileage (<80,000 km): CHF 100,000–120,000
- Collector condition (<50,000 km): CHF 130,000+
Manual transmissions command significant premiums. PTS colours and low mileage examples are extremely valuable.
Buying Considerations
- Complete service history with invoices (critical for high-performance engine)
- Check for accident damage, especially front-end
- Test PCM functionality (incl. nav & Bluetooth)
- Verify PSE flap operation and sound
- Inspect for track use signs (brake wear, tire condition)
- Verify authenticity of GTS-specific parts
FAQ
Does the 997.2 suffer from IMS failure?
No. The MA1 engine fully resolves this issue.
Is the GTS worth the premium over the S?
Absolutely. The extra power, standard PSE, unique styling, and exclusivity justify the price difference.
Manual or PDK?
Manual is highly recommended for the GTS experience and future value. Only about 30% were manual, making them extremely rare.
Good investment?
The GTS is the most collectible 997.2 variant and values are rising rapidly, especially manual examples.
Driving Experience
The ultimate naturally aspirated 911 experience. The 408 hp engine revs freely to 7,500 rpm with intoxicating sound from the standard PSE. PASM Sport provides excellent body control while maintaining reasonable comfort. The steering is telepathic, and the rear-wheel-drive setup offers pure, engaging dynamics.
Standard Equipment & GTS Features
- Sport Chrono Plus with Launch Control
- PASM Sport suspension (-10mm ride height)
- Porsche Sports Exhaust (PSE) with center-mounted tailpipes
- 19″ Carrera S wheels in satin black
- Sport seats with Alcantara centers
- Alcantara steering wheel and interior trim
- GTS-specific front spoiler and rear wing
- Smoked LED taillights
- Black exterior trim and badges
Option Codes Explained
Popular option codes for the 997.2 Carrera GTS include:
- 025 – Black-faced stopwatch
- 040 – Without front license plate bracket
- 070 – European emission standard
- 220 – Locking rear differential (mechanical) – rare and valuable
- 250 – PDK dual-clutch gearbox
- 267 – Auto dimming mirrors
- 268 – Rain sensor
- 342 – Seat heating (front)
- 454 – Cruise control
- 476 – PSM Porsche Stability Management
- 480 – 6-speed manual transmission
- 567 – Top-tinted windscreen
- 573 – Automatic air conditioning
- 603 – PDLS (dynamic lights)
- 605 – LED daytime running lights
- 610 – Navigation system Europe
- 635 – ParkAssist (rear)
- 650 – Sunroof
- 666 – Telephone module
- 670 – Universal audio interface (AUX/USB/iPod)
- 680 – Bose sound system
- 810 – Floor mats
- 951 – Leather dashboard and door panels
- 981 – Leather dashboard and centre console
- X70 – Stainless steel door entry guards with GTS logo
- X97 – Aluminium gear lever
Full option list decoding services available via VinAnalytics.com.
Colour & Trim Guide
Popular exterior colours: Basalt Black, Carrera White, Guards Red, Speed Yellow.
Rare PTS colours: Riviera Blue, Oak Green Metallic, Pure Blue.
Interior: Black Alcantara standard, full leather optional in Black, Sand Beige, or Cocoa.
Production Numbers & Rarity
Only approx. 2,800 Carrera GTS Coupés produced globally during the short 2010-2012 production run. Manual transmissions represent only about 30% of production (~840 cars), making them extremely rare and valuable.
Ownership Experience
The ultimate road-going 997.2 experience. Daily drivable yet track-capable, with intoxicating sound and performance. The standard PSE provides an addictive soundtrack, while the increased power makes highway merging and overtaking effortless. Perfect for enthusiasts who want the pinnacle 911 experience.
What to Look For When Buying
- Complete maintenance records (critical for high-performance engine)
- Original GTS-specific parts (spoilers, exhaust, wheels)
- Signs of track use or abuse
- PSE flap operation and sound quality
- Alcantara wear on seats and steering wheel
- Certificate of authenticity for PTS colours
Insurance & Running Costs
Higher insurance costs due to performance and value.
Annual maintenance costs: CHF 1,400–1,800.
Tires: CHF 1,200–1,600 (high-performance compounds).
PDK service: CHF 800–1,000.
Brake pads/discs: Higher costs due to larger brakes.
Comparison vs. Other 997.2 Models
- 997.2 Carrera S: 23 hp less, no standard PSE, higher production
- 997.2 Carrera 4S: AWD, no GTS styling, more common
- 997.2 GT3: Track-focused, less comfortable, manual only
- 997.2 Turbo: More powerful but turbocharged, different character
The GTS represents the sweet spot – more exclusive and powerful than the S models, yet more usable than the GT3, with unique styling and the last naturally aspirated high-performance engine.
Investment Potential
The GTS is the most collectible 997.2 variant, especially manual examples. As the last naturally aspirated high-performance 911, values are rising rapidly. Manual GTS models have already shown strong appreciation and are expected to continue climbing, particularly low-mileage and PTS examples.
GTS vs. Non-GTS: Key Differentiators
- Power: 408 hp vs 385 hp (S models)
- Standard PSE with center exhaust pipes
- PASM Sport suspension standard (-10mm)
- Sport Chrono Plus standard
- Unique GTS aero package
- Alcantara interior trim
- Smoked taillights
- Black exterior accents
- Exclusive production numbers