Wanted to get some thoughts on if it is worth buying a 997v2 Carrera 4S over the Carrera S? I do track days and autocross and go on PCA tours and trips.
It would not be my daily driver, it would be a garage queen only for fun and pleasure. I currently have a 2008 Boxster RS60. Would either of the Carreras
be a step up from my Boxster (It is a bit small and harsh for my wife)?

 

You should get lots of opinions on this one... I chose a CS because I preferred the narrow body and RWD.

 

The S would be at least a couple hundred pounds lighter thanks to no front differential

 

I recommend driving both to see which you like more. I have a 4s but I was actually in search of a 2s due to the more playful driving dynamics. 4s is nice still though but the steering is a little more muted than a c2 variant and its not as playful on and near the limits on track. The benefits are I don't think twice throwing my snow tires on to take it up to the snow or getting caught out in unexpected weather when on road trips. Not to say that a c2 variant wouldn't do well either in snow but have an extra axle of drivetrain helps a lot for traction.

 

I love a phatass. I love standing behind and looking at those curvy hips.
Probably because I drive a NB. I guess we always want what we don't have.

 

https://rennlist.com/forums/997-foru...a-s-vs-4s.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/997-foru...-2s-vs-4s.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/997-foru...-2s-or-4s.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/997-foru...2-s-or-4s.html
https://rennlist.com/forums/997-foru...leage-c4s.html

 

GTS RWD is the answer. All the flavor, none of the filling.

Baring that, C2S is the better choice. Less to go wrong.. C2 is no slouch either.

The 4wd just doesnt add much to the experience unless you have 700hp and need to launch.

 

Not necessarily, the thread starter lives in CO. If weather’s a concern, maybe the 4S is the one. I think there’s less different going from CS to C4S than there is coming from your Boxster. That’s a whole other question, but I think the difference in feel from RWD to AWD is subtle.

 

There are a lot of these threads as mentioned above but I went from having all front engine RWD to FWD to AWD and really wanted rear engine RWD because I only had RWD my first year driving and it was an 1973 AMC Hornet.
Great for burnouts, donuts, and drag racing!! I also specifically wanted the Narrow Body 911. I LOVE how WB and even RWB 911s look but for me, it is all about NB...and someday SWB too hopefully! So, when I was shopping, I knew I wanted RWD, NB, and rear engine. Narrowed down the search! ...but there is nothing wrong with the C4 or C4S, or GTS4 or whatever, everything is a good choice! I just wanted a change after having 2 EVOs and a Quattro and I have my own ideas on looks...

 

As a recent acquirer of a 997.1 C4S cab, all I can say is 'those hips!!!'

 

you can find these vids in other threads. Oldies, but goodies.

Yes, I know the first vid is about 991 cars... but the physics and engineering still apply... the other vid is great showing the 997.2




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ffGw_XHrN8k&t=6s&ab_channel=NeigeNoSora

 

I suspect most people would not feel the difference between an S and 4S under normal driving conditions. Only 5% of torque is distributed to the front wheels under non-slip conditions and then it increases up to 40%. The AWD cars only add about 120 lbs curb weight over their RWD counterparts. PDK adds 66 lbs.

You will feel the weight and torque distribution of the 4S more under hard driving but it's not like an Audi or Subaru that always has at least 40-50% torque to the front wheels. Those are understeering pigs. If you like the widebody and aren't driving it like you stole it, a 4S is a viable alternative, IMO.

 

Nicely summed up I think. I haven't owned a C2S but had two C4S's and now the RWD GTS. You're spot on about the steering wheel feel on the RWD car. Much more lively than the AWD version. That said, the C4S felt absolutely glued to the road even on a rainy day. I don't get that same feeling in the GTS even though it's a widebody. Seems like that front wheel traction kicks in just when it's needed on the AWD cars so could be a plus on the track depending on your driving style I suppose.

 

2S here, first time Porsche owner, less to worry about, less of a premium for price, more of a "drivers" car (meaning its RWD) and you can kick it out properly once in a while. No doubt the 4S is better at handling and if I wanted a comfier easier to drive (which can mean faster on the track), less of a handful car I'd choose the 4S

 

RWD S is the essence of 911 Carrera driving pleasure (GTS excluded due to price).

Car is lighter, more playful, has less understeer, better steering feel, less maintenance, more drink storage space, but still plenty of traction with the engine weight over the rear driving wheels. The shape of the rear fenders is actually prettier as a continuous compound curve without the 1" flat spot in the middle for the wider rear end, and from the rear, the taillights go to the end of the fender which looks better than there being more fender beyond them. Also more aerodynamic with a lower Cd so higher top speed (like anyone reached that).

I have 2 997 C2S cars.