The Porsche 997.2 Carrera GTS Cabriolet is the facelifted version of the 997 generation, produced from 2010 to 2012. It represents the ultimate naturally aspirated open-top 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 combined with the timeless appeal of open-air driving, it’s the most desirable convertible 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) | 304 km/h |
| Top Speed (PDK) | 302 km/h |
| 0–100 km/h | 4.4 s (manual) / 4.2 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 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 | 1,310 mm (roof up) / 1,295 mm (roof down) |
| Wheelbase | 2,350 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1,495 kg (manual) / 1,515 kg (PDK) |
| Fuel Tank | 67 litres |
| Luggage Capacity | ~105 litres (front trunk, roof up) / ~80 litres (roof down) |
| Cd (drag coefficient) | 0.30 (roof up) / 0.31 (roof down) |
| Fuel Type | Super Plus / 98 RON |
| Fuel Consumption (combined) | 10.7–11.1 l/100 km |
| CO₂ Emissions | ~250 g/km |
| Emissions Standard | Euro 5 |
| Roof Type | Power-operated soft top |
| Roof Operation Time | ~20 seconds (up to 50 km/h) |
Highlights
The GTS Cabriolet 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, unique GTS styling elements, and a sophisticated power soft top. It combines ultimate performance with the pure joy of open-air motoring.
Common Issues
- Soft top mechanism may develop leaks or motor issues
- Soft top fabric can fade or develop tears with age
- Early PDK software versions can feel jerky
- Battery drain if parked without a trickle charger
- PCM 3.0 may freeze or respond slowly
- 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 |
| Soft Top Service | Annual inspection and lubrication |
| Sports Exhaust Service | Check flaps operation regularly |
Market Analysis (as of 2025)
- High mileage (>130,000 km): CHF 60,000–70,000
- Good condition (90,000–120,000 km): CHF 75,000–90,000
- Low mileage (<80,000 km): CHF 95,000–115,000
- Collector condition (<50,000 km): CHF 125,000+
Manual transmissions command significant premiums. Perfect soft top condition and PTS colours add considerable value.
Buying Considerations
- Complete service history with invoices (critical for high-performance engine)
- Thoroughly test soft top operation (up/down cycles)
- Inspect soft top fabric for tears, fading, or leaks
- Check for water damage in interior
- Verify PSE flap operation and sound
- 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 Cabriolet worth it over the Coupe?
For open-air enthusiasts, absolutely. The combination of GTS performance with convertible joy is unmatched, though expect slightly less rigidity.
Manual or PDK?
Manual is highly recommended for the ultimate experience and future value. Manual GTS Cabriolets are exceptionally rare.
Good investment?
The GTS Cabriolet is highly collectible and values are rising, especially manual examples with perfect soft tops.
Driving Experience
The ultimate open-air naturally aspirated 911 experience. The 408 hp engine sounds even more intoxicating with the roof down, amplified by the standard PSE. Despite being a convertible, PASM Sport maintains excellent body control and handling precision. Perfect for spirited drives through scenic routes with the wind in your hair and flat-six symphony in your ears.
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
- Power-operated soft top with wind deflector
Option Codes Explained
Popular option codes for the 997.2 Carrera GTS Cabriolet 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) – especially desirable for convertible
- 343 – Seat ventilation (front) – perfect for summer driving
- 454 – Cruise control
- 476 – PSM Porsche Stability Management
- 480 – 6-speed manual transmission (highly desirable)
- 567 – Top-tinted windscreen
- 573 – Automatic air conditioning with separate rear controls
- 603 – PDLS (dynamic lights)
- 605 – LED daytime running lights
- 610 – Navigation system Europe
- 635 – ParkAssist (rear)
- 650 – Wind deflector for improved comfort with roof down
- 666 – Telephone module
- 670 – Universal audio interface (AUX/USB/iPod)
- 680 – Bose sound system (excellent for open-top driving)
- 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.
Soft top: Black standard, Grey optional.
Interior: Black Alcantara standard, full leather optional in Black, Sand Beige, or Cocoa.
Production Numbers & Rarity
Only approx. 1,400 Carrera GTS Cabriolets produced globally during the short 2010-2012 production run. Manual transmissions represent only about 25% of production (~350 cars), making them extremely rare and valuable among convertible 911s.
Ownership Experience
The ultimate open-air 997.2 experience. Perfect for sunny weather drives with incredible performance and sound. The soft top operates seamlessly and provides good weather protection. Ideal for grand touring and weekend escapes, combining serious performance with the timeless appeal of convertible motoring.
What to Look For When Buying
- Complete maintenance records including soft top service
- Soft top condition – fabric, seals, and operation
- Interior condition (more exposed to elements)
- Signs of water damage or leaks
- Original GTS-specific parts and exhaust sound
- Garage storage history (important for soft top longevity)
Insurance & Running Costs
Higher insurance costs due to performance, value, and convertible nature.
Annual maintenance costs: CHF 1,500–2,000 (including soft top service).
Tires: CHF 1,200–1,600.
Soft top replacement: CHF 3,000–4,000 (if needed).
PDK service: CHF 800–1,000.
Comparison vs. Other 997.2 Models
- 997.2 Carrera GTS Coupe: More rigid, slightly faster, same engine
- 997.2 Carrera S Cabriolet: 23 hp less, no standard PSE, higher production
- 997.2 Carrera 4S Cabriolet: AWD, no GTS styling, more common
- 997.2 Turbo Cabriolet: More powerful but turbocharged, different character
The GTS Cabriolet offers the perfect balance – ultimate naturally aspirated performance with the joy of open-air driving, plus the exclusivity and styling that makes it the most desirable convertible 997.2.
Convertible-Specific Benefits
- Enhanced engine sound experience with roof down
- Ultimate connection with environment and driving experience
- Perfect for scenic drives and touring
- Timeless appeal and emotional connection
- Exclusive club of open-air high-performance 911s
Investment Considerations
The GTS Cabriolet is highly collectible, especially manual examples. The combination of GTS exclusivity, convertible appeal, and naturally aspirated character makes it increasingly desirable. Perfect examples with low mileage and complete service records are commanding strong prices and showing steady appreciation.