The Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS 3.8, equipped with the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch transmission, represented a high-performance variant within the 997.2 generation of the iconic 911. Produced for the 2010 and 2011 model years, it bridged the gap between the standard Carrera 4S and the more track-focused GT3, offering a compelling blend of everyday usability and exhilarating performance. This model benefited from the mid-cycle facelift (997.2) which brought updated styling, improved engine efficiency, and the availability of the PDK transmission across a wider range of models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 (997, facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 4 GTS 3.8 (408 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.8 l/100 km (14.9 US mpg, 17.9 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.5 l/100 km (22.4 US mpg, 26.9 UK mpg, 9.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 247 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 300 km/h (186.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.7 kg/Hp, 270.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 278.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 408 Hp @ 7300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 4200 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MA1.01S |
| Engine displacement | 3800 cm3 (231.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 28.9 l (30.54 US qt | 25.43 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1910 kg (4210.83 lbs) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 105 l (3.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal) |
| Length | 4435 mm (174.61 in) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in) |
| Height | 1300 mm (51.18 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission PDK |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/35 ZR19; 305/30 ZR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Carrera 4 GTS PDK lay the MA1.01S engine, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six. This engine was derived from the 997.2 Carrera S powerplant but featured enhancements to increase power output to 408 horsepower at 7,300 rpm and 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. Direct fuel injection (DFI) was a key component, optimizing combustion efficiency and contributing to the engine’s responsiveness. The engine utilized a dry-sump lubrication system, a hallmark of Porsche engineering, ensuring consistent oil supply even under extreme cornering forces. The valvetrain employed four valves per cylinder, further enhancing breathing and power delivery.
The PDK transmission was a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission. Unlike a traditional automatic, PDK offered incredibly fast and precise gear changes, contributing significantly to the car’s performance. It could be driven in fully automatic mode or manually shifted via steering wheel-mounted paddles, providing the driver with a high degree of control. The PDK’s programming was specifically tuned for the GTS, prioritizing both performance and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera 4 GTS PDK delivered a noticeably more engaging driving experience than the standard Carrera 4. The increased power output, combined with the quick-shifting PDK transmission, resulted in a 0-60 mph time of around 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 300 km/h (186 mph). The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather, making the GTS a usable performance car year-round. The GTS’s suspension was also tuned for a more sporting feel, with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard Carrera 4. While comfortable enough for daily driving, the GTS offered a more connected and responsive feel on twisty roads. The PDK transmission, while incredibly capable, did slightly diminish the raw mechanical connection felt with a traditional manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera 4 GTS came standard with a generous array of equipment. Interior features included sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and partial leather upholstery. The exterior was distinguished by unique GTS badging, wider rear track, and standard SportDesign package which included revised front and rear bumpers and side skirts. Optional extras included full leather interiors, navigation systems, Bose audio, and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which further enhanced handling stability. The GTS was positioned as a premium trim, offering a significant step up in performance and features compared to the base Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S.
Chassis & Braking
The 997.2 Carrera 4 GTS utilized a fully independent suspension system. The front featured McPherson struts, while the rear employed a multi-link setup. The GTS benefited from a wider rear track compared to other Carrera models, improving stability and cornering grip. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The steering system was a hydraulic rack and pinion, offering precise and communicative steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Carrera 4 GTS was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, handling, and everyday usability. It was often lauded as the “sweet spot” in the 997.2 lineup, offering a significant performance upgrade over the standard Carrera models without the extreme focus of the GT3. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was respectable for a high-performance sports car, averaging around 22.4 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to the Carrera 4S, the GTS offered a more focused driving experience and a slightly more aggressive aesthetic. Compared to the more expensive and track-oriented GT3, the GTS provided a more comfortable and practical daily driver.
Legacy
The 997.2 Carrera 4 GTS has proven to be a durable and reliable sports car. The 3.8-liter engine is generally considered robust, and the PDK transmission has also demonstrated good long-term reliability. Today, these models are highly sought after by Porsche enthusiasts, commanding strong prices in the used car market. The combination of performance, usability, and iconic Porsche styling has cemented the 997.2 Carrera 4 GTS as a modern classic.
