‘Tradition & innovation are the buzzwords of Porsche,’ says Grant Larson, Porsche’s Head of Special Projects, and legendary designer of the 986 Boxster, the 997, the Carrera GT and more.
‘Tradition & innovation are the buzzwords of Porsche,’ says Grant Larson, Porsche’s Head of Special Projects, and legendary designer of the 986 Boxster, the 997, the Carrera GT and more.
‘We are always at one end or the other. So it allows us to cover our ground.’

‘Tradition and innovation’ are the buzzwords of Porsche, says Grant Larson, Porsche’s Head of Special Projects, and the legendary designer of the 986 Boxster, the 997-generation 911, the Carrera GT show car and much more. ‘We are always at one end or the other. So it allows us to cover our ground.’
Grant Larson’s association with Porsche and the 911 is key to how we understand Porsche today. After graduating from California’s Art Center College of Design in 1986, Larson joined Porsche in 1989 as part of a new wave of contemporary automotive designers. Larson’s early work for the Stuttgart motoring genius culminated in the 986 Boxster. However, Larson’s first major imprint on the 911’s legacy would come with the advent of the Type 997, in which Larson returned the car to a more traditional 911 appearance, moving away from the 996’s controversial one-piece headlamps.
The 997 remains a uniformly favored generation of the 911. ‘If you have a fantastic history, you use it and use it to your advantage,’ considers Larson.
‘But be careful how much you change, and how far you take the 911, for example. I remember talking to a customer who asked what I was working on. I said, “the new 911.”
He said, “Don’t ruin my 911!” He already claimed it as his.’
Claims? Well, the 2009 Porsche 997.2 Turbo Carrera Cabriolet we have on sale right now at Beverly Hills Car Club can be claimed as yours right away.
This fabulous car, featured with 83,628 miles on the odometer, is finished in its factory color scheme of Cream White exterior, complemented with a Special Leather Cocoa interior. Indeed, the exterior of this Porsche is a testament to its heritage, with its classic silhouette and aerodynamic lines that enhance both the car’s aesthetics and performance. The 997.2 was more than just a facelift; it was a revolution under the skin.
Our 997.2 comes equipped with a Tiptronic S transmission, 3.8-liter flat 6 engine, dual exhaust outlets, ventilated disc brakes, Porsche branded red calipers, rear spoiler, 3-spoke steering wheel, 19-inch alloy wheels, and Michelin tires.
And it is equipped with a convertible soft-top, opening that option for an open-air experience.
Convenience features include air conditioning, cruise control, power-adjustable exterior mirrors, power-adjustable sport seats with heating option, sport mode, power windows, center console, and a navigation system.
In addition, an owner’s manual is included, ensuring all information of the vehicle are your disposal. In summary, this German classic is a vehicle that combines timeless design, optimal performance, and luxurious comfort. It is a well-equipped 997.2 Cabriolet that is ready to be enjoyed and is mechanically sound.
When we speak of the history of Porsche’s 997 model we first go back to 2004 when it was formally introduced to the world as a 2005 model. It was a part of the ongoing evolution of the 996 and it started a new line that would be distinct within the Porsche lineup: Porsche 997, which was on sale from 2005 to 2012, was the return of the classic 911 look.
But in fact the development of this new Porsche sports car had begun in 1999, taking five years to perfect the design as Grant Larson had insisted on total satisfaction. The 2005 997 featured notable changes that set it apart from its predecessor. It was given a new styling on the inside and the exterior with the new bug eye headlights, 18-inch wheels and a few ounces more power.
A sports exhaust and suspension were also added. The 997 was technically similar to the 996, but it was intended to signal a gradual departure.
Unusually, the 997 Cabriolet was developed prior to the coupe version. (The heavier Cabriolet didn’t suffer in performance: it held its own with the lighter Coupe. Performance figures were extraordinary: 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds; and a top speed of 193mph).
Then in 2008 a refresh was released at the 2008 Paris Auto Show for the upcoming 2009 model year. Notable changes in what became known as the 97.2 included direct fuel injection in a new engine with revisions to the air intakes, front bumper and suspension. The next generation was also equipped with a redesigned exhaust, optional dual HID projectors for the headlights, LED turn signals taillights.
Such changes came with the addition of an optional hard drive nav system, Bluetooth and a touch screen in available Coupe, Cabriolet and Carrera versions.
By 2012 the 997.2 had lived out its life-cycle.
Now, however, the Porsche 997.2 Turbo Carrera Cabriolet has the look of love about it, the appeal of a perfect aestheticism:
Grant Larson should be allowed to feel very pleased with himself for having created what is – to all intents and purposes – a masterpiece.