The Porsche 997.2 Carrera Cabriolet is the open-top version of the base 997.2 Carrera, produced from 2008 to 2012. It pairs the 3.6-litre DFI engine with rear-wheel drive and a fully automatic fabric soft top that opens in around 20 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h, combining everyday 911 usability with 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 | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual or 7-speed PDK |
| 0–100 km/h | 5.0 s (manual) / 4.9 s (PDK) |
| Top Speed | ~288 km/h |
| Roof | Electric fabric soft top with glass rear window |
| Kerb Weight | 1,520 kg (manual) / 1,540 kg (PDK) |
| Luggage | ~105 l (roof up) / ~80 l (roof down) |
| Fuel Tank | 67 litres |
| Emissions Standard | Euro 5 |
Highlights
Same MA1 DFI engine as the Carrera Coupé, with no IMS-bearing concerns. Fully automatic soft top, classic narrow body and pure rear-wheel-drive dynamics. The entry point into open-top 997.2 ownership.
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)
- Generally 10–15% below the Coupé equivalent
- Good condition: CHF 38,000–48,000
- Low mileage: CHF 50,000–58,000
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
The open-top Carrera delivers the same linear naturally aspirated power and sweet rear-wheel-drive balance as the Coupé, with the added theatre of the flat-six soundtrack with the roof down. Slightly softer structurally, but a relaxed and rewarding cruiser.
Comparison vs. Other 997.2 Models
- 997.2 Carrera 2S: more power (385 hp), bigger brakes
- 997.2 Carrera 4: all-wheel drive, wider rear body
- this model vs Targa 4: Targa adds a fixed glass roof and AWD