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Porsche 997: Should I Buy a Carrera or Carrera S?

It can be quite difficult to decide on which 997 to go with, especially if you're trying to decide between the Carrera and Carrera S. This article covers the basic differences and also what separates the first generation of 997 from the second generation, because there is a difference.

By Jeff White - March 20, 2015

This article applies to the Porsche 911 (997) (2005-2012).

You've finally decided to go for it and get that Porsche 911 you've always wanted. You also think it's a great time to take advantage of the fact that the Porsche 997 prices are sitting at pretty reasonable rates considering how much car you are going to get. But, taking all this into consideration, you're still new to the 911 game and you want an entry-level example of a 997. This article breaks it down to basics on the 997 Carrera and Carrera S. It's actually a highly-debated topic, one that will generate pages and pages of threads when the question is asked on any forum, especially since the 997 can be broken down into 2 generations: the 997.1 (2005-2008) and 997.2 (2009-2012).

Of course, everyone has their opinion to chime in with. So to keep from kicking off World War 3, we're going to stick to the known specs and lay down what the major differences are, staying away from how they feel or how they might drive. The Porsche 997 entry-level model Carrera can basically be broken down into four categories. Keep in mind that we're not talking about Turbo or GT(2 or 3) models.

  • 997.1 (Gen 1 2005-2008)
  • 997.2 (Gen 2 2009-2012)
  • Carrera
  • Carrera S

Starting in 2005, when Porsche came out with the 997.1, they had two Carrera options to choose from, the base and the S. The base Carrera carried over the 3.6L 6-cylinder engine from the 996. It came with 321 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. So, if you look at it on paper, the base model Carrera is technically a re-bodied 911 996. It was offered with a 6-speed manual or a Tiptronic automatic transmission.

In 2009, Porsche decided to offer a revamped version of the 997 Carrera, essentially creating a second generation called the 997.2.

Both the Carrera and Carrera S got revised suspension, revised front bumpers, new headlamps, and redesigned Porsche sport exhausts. Probably the most significant change was the Tiptronic transmission being replaced by the introduction of the PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The base Carrera got a revised DFI (Direct Fuel Injection) version of the 3.6L 6-cylinder engine, producing 340 hp and 288 lb-ft of torque with dry sump lubrication.

The Carrera S got a revised DFI version of the 3.8L 6 cylinder engine, producing 380 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque with dry sump lubrication. With the Carrera S, they introduced a new 3.8L 6 cylinder engine producing 355 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. There was also an option called the X51 Powerkit which boosted power to 376 hp and 306 lb-ft of torque. The Carrera S also came with a long list of standard equipment that was optional on the base Carrera. This included PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management) which allowed the driver to select different modes for the suspension. It also came with 19-inch wheels, 911 Turbo brakes, sports exhaust, bi-Xenon headlights, and aluminum-finished instruments.

Now that you know all of this, it's time to assess which one is right for you.

Figure 1. Porsche 911 997.

997.1 Carrera

This will be the least expensive version of the 997 and is for the person who didn't like the looks of the 996 911 and wants a great Sunday drive car. Keep in mind that many people find even the base 997.1 cars to be plenty to handle; it's no slouch.

Figure 2. 997.1 Carrera.

997.1 Carrera S

This is the best investment out of the 997 Carrera's. It has the bigger engine and all the options that make it worth every penny. It would also be a great track car if you didn't want to spend the money on a GT3. If you plan on driving the car hard, at track days or the like, make sure to find a car equipped with the X51 kit. Not only does this add some cool power features, but crucially, it offers the improved, baffled oil sump, which keeps the engine better lubricated around high-G force corners.

Figure 3. 997.1 Carrera S.

997.2 Carrera

This is the best entry-level late model 911 out there right now. The prices are still fairly low and you are getting a lot of car for the money. The 997.2 cars won't exhibit any issues with IMS bearings and offer a more modern, refreshed look. It may still be possible to find Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) examples as well.

Figure 4. 997.2 Carrera.

997.2 Carrera S

This, of course, will be the most expensive but it likely won't depreciate that much due to the list of equipment this car comes standard with. There were a lot of options offered for this car, and there are versions out there where customers went crazy with them. This model is recommended for someone who doesn't necessarily have the money for a 997 GT3 but still wants the best version of the 997.

Figure 5. Porsche 911 997.2 Carrera S.

When looking at different cars, keep in mind that values will differ depending on mileage, condition and other factors. It is possible to find good deals on 997.2 Carrera S's at the price of a lesser model. The best thing you can do is do your homework and figure out which one would work best for your situation. When buying pre-owned cars, some people prefer to go with cars that are as close to original condition as possible and have been regularly serviced. This seems to eliminate headaches in the long run. As always, a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) is paramount to Porsche ownership.

Scheduled Maintenance

Whether serviced by a dealer or an independent Porsche specialist, a well-cared-for car will come with records to prove that it has been serviced regularly and correctly.The best references for scheduled maintenance are included in the following links:

Porsche Maintenance Intervals - Porsche.com

Porsche Service Manual - PDF Download

Common Issues

IMS (Intermediate Shaft) Bearing Failure in 997.1 Base Model Carrera

Another thing to keep in mind is that the engine used in the 997.1 base model Carrera was carried over from the 996 911. This engine was prone to IMS failure, which pretty much means the engine is a ticking time bomb if this has not been addressed. If you are considering this version, then make sure this problem has been remedied. There are retrofit kits offered, and there will be cars out there that had the problem at one time and have been taken care of.

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