2012 PORSCHE 911 (997.2) CARRERA GTS - MANUAL

This Porsche 911 (997.2) Carrera GTS is a fantastic example of the end-of-generation special edition coupe, featuring the desirable manual gearbox and presented in excellent condition with full Porsche service history from new. Under the engine lid is the uprated 408bhp 3.8-litre flat-six engine, driving the rear wheels through the six-speed manual transmission, capable of sprinting from 0-60mph in just 4.6 seconds. The odometer shows just 36,110 miles from new.

Introduced in 2011 as a ‘last hurrah’ for the 997.2 generation of the 911; the GTS features a selection of unique touches and a raft of optional extras as standard. The most apparent difference is the wide body style, usually reserved for all-wheel-drive and RS models. Other standard equipment includes the engine power kit taking output to 408bhp, a SportDesign front bumper, side skirts from the GT2 RS, revised suspension and black-painted 19-inch RS Spyder wheels with centre locks.

First registered in July 2011, this 2012 model-year car’s log book shows just three prior keepers, and it is now offered for sale by its current owner, who acquired it approximately one year ago. He has since covered around 1,700 miles.

Today, the bodywork remains in pristine condition, with no evidence of accident damage and smooth, even shut lines. Having been fully detailed with a two-stage machine polish and ceramic coating in 2019, which was topped up in May 2020, the black paintwork presents extremely well, with a deep gloss and near mirror finish, even in usually high-wear areas such as around the door handles and on the lower front bumper.

The light lenses, rubber seals and glass are all in equally great shape, with no signs of hazing, cracking or chips. As a GTS version, this 997.2 Carrera rides on gloss black 19-inch RS Spyder wheels with centre locking hubs. All four are in excellent condition and are free of any kerb scratches or noticeable marks.

Turning to the interior, black leather and Alcantara cover most of the cabin’s surfaces, with the synthetic suede material having been applied to the centres of the seats, the rim of the SportDesign steering wheel, the handbrake lever, the manual gear knob and the gear gaiter. The interior upholstery is in fantastic condition, having been deep cleaned during the car’s detailing in 2019. While there are some small scratches to the side of the lower portion of the driver’s seat, these are minor, and the rest of the leather and Alcantara is in great shape.

Elsewhere, the trim is almost as-new, with the only marks of note being some small scuffs and scratches to the silver-painted backs of the front seats. Providing a bright accent against the otherwise monochrome interior, the car has also been specified with Guards Red seat belts, while black Porsche floor mats with grey edging help to protect the black carpeting. All of the interior buttons, screens and electrical items work perfectly.

Fastidiously maintained by Porsche main dealers from new, this Carrera GTS is in superb mechanical condition, and is described by its seller as wanting for nothing. Its last scheduled maintenance was carried out on 10 April 2019 at 34,164 miles by Porsche Centre Brooklands, which was a major service including replacement of the spark plugs.

Prior to this, a minor service and auxiliary drive belt replacement were carried out in June 2017 at 33,605 miles by Porsche Centre Mid-Sussex. The two services prior to this were in June 2015 and June 2013 – both at Porsche Centre Chester. The seller also notes that an optional oil change was carried out in May 2020.

The car’s last annual MOT test was conducted on 20 May at 35,933 miles, where it received a clean, advisory-free pass after the offside front headlamp was adjusted. Its wheels are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport tyres, with 235/35 ZR19 items on the front and 305/30 ZR19 on the rear. All four are in great shape, with 5.5mm of tread remaining on the front and 5mm to the rear.

Accompanying the car are all of its original handbooks and tools, its two original keys and the Porsche Certificate of Authenticity, plus a full history folder documenting past work that has been carried out.

In his Evo review of the car, journalist Richard Meaden said: “As a package, the Carrera GTS is very hard to fault. That’s why for all-round performance, value and desirability it’s our favourite non-Motorsport department 911, and a fitting finale for the 997 generation.”

This Porsche 911 Carrera GTS is a superb sports car, with its manual gearbox and rear-wheel-drive configuration giving it huge appeal for enthusiast drivers. Exceptionally well cared-for and with a full Porsche service history, this recently detailed example of the last of the 997.2 generation is described by its seller as “possibly the best manual 997 GTS in the UK” and would make an excellent addition to any collection – although it will be even more enjoyable out on the open road.

Summary of service history:

• 10/06/2013 – 9,611 miles (OPC Chester)
• 08/06/2015 – 21,766 miles (OPC Chester)
• 06/06/2017 – 33,605 miles (OPC Mid-Sussex)
• 10/04/2019 – 34,164 miles (OPC Brooklands)

All cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. This vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.