The Porsche 911 Cabriolet (991 II) Carrera GTS 3.0, produced from 2017 to 2018, represents a compelling blend of performance and open-air driving enjoyment within the broader 991.2 generation of the iconic 911. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the Cabriolet range, the GTS 3.0 slotted above the base Carrera and Carrera S models, offering increased power and a more focused driving experience while remaining below the track-oriented GT3. It builds upon the mid-cycle refresh of the 991, introducing turbocharged engines across the entire Carrera lineup and refining the car’s overall dynamics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (991 II) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera GTS 3.0 (450 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 10.8 l/100 km (21.8 US mpg, 26.2 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 308 km/h (191.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 292.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 357.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 151 Hp/l |
| Torque | 550 Nm @ 2150-5000 rpm (405.66 lb.-ft. @ 2150-5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MDC.JA |
| Engine displacement | 2981 cm3 (181.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 91 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 445 kg (981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4528 mm (178.27 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1978 mm (77.87 in.) |
| Height | 1291 mm (50.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/35 ZR 20; 305/30 ZR 20 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 20; 12J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 991.2 Carrera GTS 3.0 is the 2.981-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, designated as the MDC.JA. This engine represents a significant departure from the naturally aspirated engines of previous 911 generations. The use of two turbochargers, one for each bank of cylinders, provides a broader torque curve and increased power output compared to the standard Carrera. Direct fuel injection is employed for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The engine boasts a compression ratio of 10:1 and utilizes a four-valve-per-cylinder configuration. The engine oil capacity is 8 liters, and Porsche specifies a particular oil formulation for optimal performance and longevity.
Paired with the engine is Porsche’s seven-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) dual-clutch automatic transmission. This transmission offers incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, contributing to the car’s impressive acceleration. The PDK features both fully automatic and manual shifting modes, allowing the driver to tailor the driving experience to their preferences. The transmission is specifically tuned for the increased torque output of the GTS engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 911 Carrera GTS 3.0 PDK delivers a thrilling driving experience. The twin-turbocharged engine provides a substantial surge of torque from as low as 2150 rpm, resulting in strong acceleration in any gear. The PDK transmission complements the engine perfectly, providing seamless gear changes during both spirited driving and relaxed cruising. While the PDK offers incredibly quick shifts, it doesn’t quite match the engagement of a traditional manual transmission. The GTS benefits from Porsche’s Active Suspension Management (PASM) system, which adjusts the damping characteristics based on road conditions and driving style. This results in a comfortable ride during everyday driving and a more controlled and responsive feel during aggressive cornering. The rear-wheel-drive configuration contributes to the car’s balanced handling characteristics.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera GTS 3.0 came standard with a generous array of equipment. Interior features included sport seats with enhanced bolstering, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a premium audio system. The exterior featured unique GTS styling cues, including a more aggressive front fascia, wider rear fenders, and a distinctive rear spoiler. Optional extras included Porsche Dynamic Lighting System (PDLS), adaptive cruise control, and a variety of interior trim options. Many examples were equipped with the Sport Chrono Package, which added a Sport Response button for even quicker acceleration and a lap timer.
Chassis & Braking
The 991.2 Carrera GTS utilizes an independent suspension system at all four corners. The front suspension employs McPherson struts, while the rear features a multi-link setup. This configuration provides excellent handling and ride comfort. The GTS is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Porsche’s ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The GTS typically featured larger brake rotors and calipers compared to the base Carrera models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 991.2 Carrera GTS 3.0 was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and overall driving experience. It was often lauded as the sweet spot in the 911 lineup, offering a significant step up in performance from the base Carrera without the extreme focus of the GT3. Compared to the standard Carrera, the GTS offered more power, a more aggressive suspension setup, and more distinctive styling. Compared to the Carrera S, the GTS provided a similar level of performance but with a more focused and engaging driving experience. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance sports car, but not a primary focus.
Legacy
The 991.2 Carrera GTS 3.0 has proven to be a reliable and desirable sports car in the used car market. The twin-turbocharged engine, while more complex than its naturally aspirated predecessors, has demonstrated good long-term durability. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and inspections, is crucial for ensuring the engine’s longevity. The PDK transmission is also generally reliable, but requires periodic servicing. The 991.2 GTS continues to be a popular choice among Porsche enthusiasts, offering a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment.
