The Model

The 997 is fast becoming the most popular of the recent 911s, being better built than the 996 before, and yet offering a purer driving experience than the technically superior 991 that followed.

The generation 2 models featured new direct injection engines, and in the 3.8 litre S models, power was raised to 385BHP and has proven to be considerably more reliable than the generation 1 variants. The new interior improved in quality too, and the controls still feel modern today.

A manual and automatic gearbox option were offered as before, however, unlike previous automatics, the new PDK 7 speed gearbox featured standard, sport and sports plus modes, allowing the owner to select the programme to suit their preferred driving style. Critically for the first time, this also meant that cars fitted with this new PDK gearbox could accelerate quicker than the manual version, with 0-60 mph coming up 4.3 seconds when sport plus was selected compared to 4.7 seconds for the manual variant. Top speed was raised to a whisker under 190mph too.

This Example

This 2010 model Carrera 2S with PDK transmission is finished in the stunning combination of GT Silver with full cocoa leather interior. It was purchased from Porsche Centre West London in September 2009, has covered just 35,900 miles from new and is still in excellent condition throughout today. As well as the comprehensive standard specification, it was fitted with the following additional factory options:

• PASM (Porsche Active Stability Management)
• Sport Chrono Package Plus
• Bose Sound Package
• Instrument dials in black
• Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK)
• Heated Seats
• 19″ Sport Design Wheels
• Rear Wiper
• Cruise Control
• Tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS)
• Top tinted windscreen
• Bi-Xenon Lighting System including Porsche Dynamic Cornering Lights
• Rear park assist
• Electric Tilt & Slide Sun Roof,
• Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with telephone module and extended Navigation Module
• Floor mats
• Multi-Function Steering Wheel in Plain Leather
• Universal Audio Interface
• Electrically Adjustable Seats,
• Rear Centre Console in Leather
• Defroster Trim in Leather

Service History

• 09/09/2011: 9,313 miles – Porsche Centre West London
• 13/11/13: 10,590 miles – Porsche Centre Bournemouth
• 11/08/2015: 19,246 miles – Porsche Centre East London
• 14/08/2018: 32,529 miles – Porsche Torque Uxbridge
• 08/2020: Full sales preparation including service and MOT: 36,000 miles – Paul Stephens Specialist in Porsche

This Carrera S offers the best of both worlds by not only being an easy daily companion, and it still has impressive performance and dynamics to entertain when the mood takes you.