2010 Porsche 997 Carrera 4S

If the 1997 996 was the modernising 911 revolution, then the 997 that followed in 2004, was back to the familiar path of 911 evolution.

With much of the 996’s underpinnings carried over, including initially the same 3.6-litre, flat-six for the base models, Porsche consciously took a step back styling wise. Whereas the 996 had attracted criticism for its perhaps slightly bland, modern re-working of the 911 silhouette, plus those controversial headlamps, the 997 featured a more accentuated classic 911 look, and a return to traditional round headlights.

The exterior redesign was complimented by a complete interior reworking, with again a nod to the more traditional 911 look. Materials were much improved too, and more in keeping with Porsche perception.

While the 320bhp, 3.6-litre engine was a carry over, S models got a new 350bhp, 3.8-litre motor. Transmission choices remained as per 996, with a six-speed manual and five-speed Tiptronic. In true Porsche fashion, the 997 arrived with Carrera 2 and 2S versions – differentiated by power and narrow v wide body – closely followed by the C4 and C4S and then Cabrio and GT variants. And lastly in 2006, the 997 Targa was introduced, in C4 and C4S versions.

Porsche also introduced its Porsche Active Suspension Management system (PASM), with the 997, but other advances – such as 7-speed PDK transmission – would have to wait until the arrival of the 997.2 in 2008, along with a revised DFI version of the 3.8-litre engine which not only had a power hike to 385BHP, but increased reliability too.

And that is what we have here – an exceptionally well specced 997.2 Carrera 4S, with PASM and PDK and a whole lot more besides.

Ruby Red Alert

In stunning Ruby Red, this 2010 997.2 Carrera 4S really does stand out, and not just for its stunning looks. It features an interesting spec too. Sure, the 7-speed PDK ‘box isn’t unusual, and nor is PASM, but outside of the GT and Turbo 911s, Porsche’s Carbon Ceramic brake (PCCB) option, is an unusual box tick, and easily spotted by those that know, by the characteristic, ‘Big Yellow’ 4-pot callipers.

Talking of those in the know, the RE registration prefix, marks this 997 out as a Porsche GB car, RE being a Reading registration, as confirmed in the handbook. This would also explain the unusually high specification, as not only are the PCCBs an unusual fitment, but the interior is a specification tour de force.

In a sea of the usual black, grey or blue interiors, terracotta is a pleasing unusual change and works extremely well with the exterior colour. The interior features extended leather, with even the vent louvres leather trimmed. Indeed, take a good look at the pictures and you’ll see that the leather stitching is applied to almost every surface. We’ve seen few 997s trimmed to this degree, with the exception of the 911 Sport Classic. The interior is further trimmed with the aluminium pack, plus Bose sound system.

Mechanically PCCB we’ve mentioned, but also featured is Sports Chrono with corresponding Sports Plus for damper settings and throttle map, plus a limited slip differential , another unusual box to tick on a 4wd 911.

A comprehensive history file features all expenditure plus servicing a mix of Porsche Centre, specialist and self-service by previous owner James Banbury, who primarily a Range Rover specialist, has up until 2023 maintained the 997 C4 S to within an inch of its life, with fully documented/photographic records and all expenditure, plus oil changes at every 5000-miles. Impressive stuff. Latterly it has been looked after by Porsche specialist Sports and Classic.

Condition of this special 997 is near flawless inside and out, and at 60,000-miles it has needed largely only routine servicing, with nothing to suggest that there is anything big on the horizon. With such impressive history and maintenance this is a 911 that any future owner should be able to run with corresponding confidence.

On The Road

So, the ‘sweet spot’ of the modern Porsche generation? Yes, we think so and here’s why. If the 996 was a dynamically better 911 than the last of the air-cooled 993, generation then the 997 C4S further builds on that, with an extra dollop of power and improved build quality.

Whilst, we are confirmed manualists at PS, we would also be the first to admit that the PDK transmission was a game changer for the 997.2 generation 911 and a real step up from the Tiptronic transmission. Shifts and super quick and in auto mode, almost seem to read the road ahead. And then, of course, there is the option to paddle shift too, for full control.

The 3.8-litre flat-six has enough power for all but the most hardcore. Want more then you need a 911 Turbo. PASM is a marvel, adapting to the road and taking the edge off the worst of it. Oh, and the brakes – predictably – are mighty!

In Summary

Unique tends to be overused, and inappropriately so most of the time. However, sticking our necks out, we do genuinely believe that you’ll be very hard pushed to find another 997 Carrera 4S like this one. And for the select few, this unique 911 (there, we’ve said it) will have huge appeal.