This 997.2 Carrera’s Notoriety: It’s the last of the svelte-shaped and “right-sized” Carreras that’s configured in its simplest form; a narrow-body, naturally-aspirated, rear-wheel drive, fairly light-weight, and 6-speed manual-equipped 911, while also featuring the added dynamics of the optioned and highly-sought-after Aerokit. These coveted traits are highly reminiscent of that to its revered 997.2 GT3 brethren. For comparison’s sake to the GT3, here are the relatively small differences in numbers; the 997.2 GT3 weighs 3,075 LBS whereas this 997.2 Carrera’s weight stands at approximately 3,186 LBS, while horsepower in the GT3 only differs by 90; even with the differences, this 997.2 Carrera is still very impressive with its overall “straight-to-the-point” performance packaging!
The Aerokit’s Significance: The Aerokit garners a plethora of mix reviews as many feel that it mimics the aesthetics of the 997 GT3…a bit too much — when in all actuality, the Aerokit was made available for the 997 911 prior to the existence of 997 GT3! The initial 997 Aerokit featured styling cues from the 2005 997 GT3 Cup car and was available for ordering in the Spring of 2005; just a short time after the public debut of the Cup car. These shared styling cues would then make its way onto the 2007 997 GT3; a car that was publicly revealed to the world on February 28, 2006.
This 2011 Porsche 911 Carrera’s Factory Ordered Equipment:
XAA – Aerokit Cup – $5,990
220 – Limited Slip Rear Differential Lock – $950
421 – 19″ Turbo II Wheel – $2,440
446 – Wheel Center with Colored Crest 185
480 – Manual transmission
603 – Dynamic Cornering Light – $690
619 – Bluetooth Interface for Mobile Phone – $695
640 – Sport Chrono Package Plus – $960
680 – BOSE Surround Sound System – $1,440
686 – XM Radio – $750
810 – Floor Mats in Interior Color – $150
870 – Universal Audio Interface – $440
AP – Black Sport Seats
P77 – Sport Seats – $800
XSC – Porsche Crest Embossed on Headrests – $285
Z4 – Basalt Black Metallic
The Aesthetics: Upon viewing this Carrera coupe (original MSRP of $93,000), your presence is welcomed by a beautiful Basalt Black Metallic finish; the Aerokit Cup styling (front bumper lip and rear spoiler); 19-inch Turbo II Wheels (showcased in front of black brake calipers with white “Porsche” script) with center color crests; “Carrera” engine lid insignia in gray; dynamic Bi-Xenon headlights; and dual tailpipes completes the exterior.
Inside: When entering the cabin, your occupancy is greeted by light-colored twin-stitching; aluminum/brushed aluminum/metallic-coated surfacing on select areas, and Black leather. The driver is faced with a 3-spoke Sports steering wheel; dark-colored instrumentation clusters; dashboarded mounted Sport Chrono dial; a centrally located, 6.5-inch touchscreen display; and the 6-speed manual transmission. Front occupants are embraced by Sports seats (featuring perforations, light-colored stitching, and an embossed Porsche crest). The cabin’s audio experience is provided by the optioned, 13-Speaker, BOSE Surround Sound System.
Performance: Powering the Carrea is a rear-mounted and naturally-aspirated, 3.6L DFI flat-six engine, delivering a healthy 345hp and 286 ft-lbs of torque (performance figures of 0-60 in an estimated 4.9 seconds, with a top speed of 180 mph) with the power being sent to the rear wheels.
