The Porsche 911 (997) Carrera S 3.8, equipped with the Tiptronic S automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in the iconic 911 lineage. Produced from 2004 to 2008, this variant occupied a performance-oriented mid-range position within the 997 generation, bridging the gap between the base Carrera and the more track-focused Carrera 4S and Turbo models. It was a key offering for Porsche buyers seeking a blend of everyday usability and exhilarating performance, particularly in the North American market where automatic transmissions were, and continue to be, popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 (997) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera S 3.8 (355 Hp) Tiptronic S |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 17.9 l/100 km (13.1 US mpg, 15.8 UK mpg, 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 283 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 285 km/h (177.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.1 kg/Hp, 243.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 274 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 4600 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M97.01 |
| Engine displacement | 3824 cm3 (233.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 31 l (32.76 US qt | 27.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1460 kg (3218.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 405 kg (892.87 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 135 l (4.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4427 mm (174.29 in.) |
| Width | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Height | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic S |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/35 R19ZR; 295/30 R19ZR |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 997 Carrera S Tiptronic S lies the M97.01 engine, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine builds upon the advancements of previous 911 engines, featuring a dry-sump lubrication system crucial for maintaining oil supply during aggressive cornering. The M97.01 utilizes multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for efficient cylinder filling and high-revving capability. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4,600 rpm.
The “Tiptronic S” transmission is a five-speed automatic gearbox with a torque converter. It offers both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to select gears via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. This transmission was known for its relatively quick shifts compared to earlier Porsche automatics, but it wasn’t as responsive as the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch transmission that arrived in later 997 models.
Driving Characteristics
The 997 Carrera S Tiptronic S delivers a refined yet engaging driving experience. While not as visceral as the six-speed manual version, the Tiptronic S provides smooth and effortless acceleration. The automatic transmission’s programming prioritizes comfort and drivability, resulting in slightly slower acceleration times (around 5.3 seconds to 60 mph) compared to the manual. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. In automatic mode, the transmission will hold gears longer under hard acceleration, but it can sometimes feel hesitant to downshift quickly when immediate power is needed. The Tiptronic S is well-suited for drivers who prefer a more relaxed driving style or frequently encounter stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera S Tiptronic S came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a Bose sound system, and bi-xenon headlights. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. Popular options included sport seats, a navigation system, a sunroof, and various interior trim packages. The Carrera S also benefited from Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) system, which allowed drivers to adjust the firmness of the dampers for a more comfortable or sporty ride.
Chassis & Braking
The 997 Carrera S features a fully independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provides excellent handling and ride quality. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Porsche’s ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety and control. The steering is a hydraulic rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 997 Carrera S Tiptronic S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its performance, handling, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the Tiptronic S transmission wasn’t as engaging as the manual gearbox. Compared to the base Carrera, the S model offered a significant performance upgrade thanks to its larger engine and upgraded suspension. Compared to the Carrera 4S, the S model was lighter and more agile, but the 4S offered superior traction, especially in inclement weather. The 997 Carrera S Tiptronic S offered a good balance between performance and usability, making it a popular choice for Porsche enthusiasts.
Legacy
The M97.01 engine, when properly maintained, is known for its reliability. The Tiptronic S transmission, while not without its quirks, has also proven to be relatively durable. Today, the 997 Carrera S Tiptronic S remains a desirable Porsche model in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and relative affordability makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a classic Porsche experience. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and transmission fluid services, is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of these vehicles. The 997 generation, as a whole, is increasingly regarded as the last of the “analog” 911s, offering a more connected and engaging driving experience than later, more technologically advanced models.
