The Porsche 997.2 Carrera 2S is the facelifted version of the 997 generation, produced from 2008 to 2012. It represents the sweet spot between modern usability and analogue driver involvement. With a 3.8-litre DFI engine, optional PDK transmission and classic narrow-body design, the 2S blends performance, reliability and rear-wheel-drive purity.
Specifications
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Production Period | 2008–2012 |
| 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 | 385 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 4,400 rpm |
| Redline | 7,500 rpm |
| Top Speed (manual) | 302 km/h |
| Top Speed (PDK) | 300 km/h |
| 0–100 km/h | 4.5 s (manual) / 4.3 s (PDK) |
| Quarter Mile | ~12.4 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, anti-roll bar |
| Suspension (rear) | Multi-link, PASM, anti-roll bar |
| Brakes | 330 mm vented discs front & rear |
| Steering | Hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion |
| Wheels | 19-inch alloy wheels |
| Tyres | 235/35 ZR19 (F) / 295/30 ZR19 (R) |
| Length | 4,443 mm |
| Width (excl. mirrors) | 1,808 mm |
| Height | 1,310 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,350 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1,470 kg (manual) / 1,490 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) | 10.1–10.5 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 2S model features the classic narrow-body design and RWD for purist driving dynamics and lighter weight.
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
- Front lift system (if equipped) may leak
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 |
Market Analysis (as of 2025)
- High mileage (>130,000 km): CHF 40,000–48,000
- Good condition (90,000–120,000 km): CHF 50,000–60,000
- Low mileage (<80,000 km): CHF 62,000–72,000
- Collector condition (<50,000 km): CHF 75,000+
Manuals and rare colours fetch a premium.
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
- PDK service record (if applicable)
FAQ
Does the 997.2 suffer from IMS failure?
No. The MA1 engine fully resolves this issue.
Is the 997.2 Carrera 2S reliable?
Yes. It’s considered one of the most reliable modern 911s.
Manual or PDK?
Personal preference. PDK is quicker and easier to live with. Manuals offer more involvement and are increasingly rare. Both retain value well.
Good investment?
The 997.2 is a rising modern classic, especially in good condition with desirable options.
Driving Experience
Excellent steering feedback, linear power delivery, and pure rear-wheel-drive dynamics. Whether manual or PDK, it drives precisely and emotionally. PASM allows a switch between comfort and sport. The driving feel is raw yet refined – ideal for purists who value the classic 911 experience with modern reliability.
Optional Equipment & Desirability Factors
- Sport Chrono Plus (Launch Control, sharper throttle)
- PASM Sport (lower ride height, stiffer dampers)
- X51 Powerkit (408 hp, upgraded intake and exhaust)
- LSD limited-slip diff (rare, highly desirable)
- Sports exhaust (PSE)
- Adaptive sport seats
- Full leather interior
- Paint to Sample (PTS) colours
Option Codes Explained
Popular option codes for the 997.2 Carrera 2S 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
- 220 – Locking rear differential (mechanical)
- 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 Sport suspension
- X51 – Porsche Exclusive Powerkit (+23 hp)
- 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, Aqua Blue, Carrera White.
Rare PTS colours: Riviera Blue, Speed Yellow, Oak Green Metallic.
Interiors: Black, Sand Beige, Cocoa, Terracotta – often with trim in aluminium, carbon or wood.
Production Numbers & Rarity
Approx. 16,500 Carrera 2S Coupés produced globally. Manuals are increasingly rare compared to PDKs. Cars with Powerkit, LSD, or PTS are especially rare and fetch a premium.
Ownership Experience
Very daily-drivable – reliable cold starts, ergonomic interior, reasonable fuel consumption. Comfortable for long journeys yet thrilling in the mountains. The rear-wheel-drive setup provides a more connected, purist driving experience with excellent balance and feedback.
What to Look For When Buying
- Complete maintenance records
- Inspect for oil leaks, clutch wear (manual), underbody condition
- Check tire DOT codes (age vs. tread)
- Test drive with full lock and load changes
- Verify function of all electronics
- Wear on seats, switches, shifter – clues for care
Insurance & Running Costs
Cheaper to insure than GT models and slightly less than the 4S.
Annual maintenance costs: CHF 1,100–1,400.
Tires: CHF 1,000–1,400.
PDK service: CHF 800–1,000.
Taxes vary by region.
Comparison vs. Other 997.2 Models
- 997.2 Carrera: less power, smaller brakes
- 997.2 Carrera 4S: AWD, wider body, heavier
- 997.2 GTS: more power, PSE standard, rare in manual
- 997.2 Targa 2S: glass roof, heavier
- 997.2 GT3: more focused but less practical
The 2S is seen as the perfect purist choice – emotional, lightweight and perfectly balanced for the classic 911 experience.