The Porsche 911 Carrera 4 3.4, equipped with the 350 horsepower engine and Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch transmission, represents a significant iteration within the 991 generation of the iconic 911. Produced from 2012 to 2015, this variant occupied a crucial position in the 911 lineup, offering a blend of performance, all-weather capability, and everyday usability. It served as a step up from the base Carrera models, providing enhanced traction and stability through its all-wheel-drive system, while remaining accessible to a broader range of buyers than the more focused Carrera S or track-oriented GT3 variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 (991) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 4 3.4 (350 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 200 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 283 km/h (175.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.2 kg/Hp, 238.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 265.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 350 Hp @ 7400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 101.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 5600 rpm (287.65 lb.-ft. @ 5600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MA1.04 |
| Engine displacement | 3436 cm3 (209.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.5 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 29 l (30.64 US qt | 25.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1470 kg (3240.8 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 395 kg (870.83 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 385 l (13.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4491 mm (176.81 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1304 mm (51.34 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1532 mm (60.31 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| 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 |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/40 ZR19; 295/35 ZR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 911 Carrera 4 3.4 lies the MA1.04 engine, a 3.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine benefits from direct fuel injection, a technology that improves both power and fuel efficiency by precisely metering fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The engine produces 350 horsepower at 7400 rpm and 390 Nm (287.65 lb-ft) of torque at 5600 rpm. The flat-six configuration contributes to a low center of gravity, enhancing the car’s handling characteristics. The engine’s valvetrain utilizes four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased performance. Paired with this engine is the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK), a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. The PDK offers incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, both in automatic and manual modes, contributing to the car’s overall responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera 4 3.4 PDK delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, making it a more practical choice than the rear-wheel-drive Carrera. While not as brutally quick as the Carrera S, the 350 hp engine provides ample power for spirited driving. The PDK transmission allows for seamless acceleration, and the driver can choose between various driving modes – including Normal, Sport, and Sport Plus – to tailor the car’s responsiveness to their preferences. The gear ratios are optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy. Compared to the manual transmission equipped Carrera 4, the PDK offers quicker acceleration times due to its lightning-fast shifts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 911 Carrera 4 3.4 typically came well-equipped as standard. Interior features included partial leather upholstery, power-adjustable seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. Popular options included a sunroof, upgraded leather interiors, sport seats, the Porsche Dynamic Lighting System (PDLS), and a Bose or Burmester sound system. The Carrera 4 trim generally sat in the mid-range of the 911 lineup, offering a step up in features and performance compared to the base Carrera, but without the more aggressive styling and higher price tag of the Carrera S.
Chassis & Braking
The 991 generation 911 features a sophisticated chassis designed for both performance and comfort. The Carrera 4 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles as needed, optimizing traction. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The Carrera 4 typically featured a slightly thicker rear stabilizer bar compared to the base Carrera, further enhancing its handling stability. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, ensuring safe and controlled braking in all conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 911 Carrera 4 3.4 PDK was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, all-weather capability, and everyday usability. Compared to the base Carrera, the all-wheel-drive system was seen as a significant advantage, particularly in regions with inclement weather. Fuel economy was considered respectable for a sports car of its caliber, with combined fuel consumption figures around 27.4 US mpg. Reliability has generally been good, although routine maintenance costs can be relatively high, as is typical for a Porsche. Compared to the more powerful Carrera S, the 3.4 offered a more accessible price point and a slightly more forgiving driving experience.
Legacy
The 991 Carrera 4 3.4 PDK has proven to be a durable and desirable sports car in the used market. The MA1.04 engine is known for its reliability, provided it receives regular maintenance. The PDK transmission has also proven to be robust. These cars continue to appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate the classic 911 driving experience with the added benefits of all-wheel drive and modern technology. Values have remained relatively stable, reflecting the enduring appeal of the 911 nameplate and the well-rounded nature of this particular variant.
