The Porsche 911 Cabriolet (992) Carrera 4 GTS 3.0, equipped with the PDK dual-clutch transmission and producing 480 horsepower, represents a compelling blend of performance and open-air driving enjoyment. Introduced in November 2021 and continuing through May 2024, this variant occupies a significant position within the broader 992 generation, known for its evolutionary yet substantial improvements over its predecessor. The Carrera 4 GTS builds upon the established 911 formula, offering increased power, enhanced handling characteristics, and a more focused driving experience compared to the base Carrera models, while remaining more approachable than the even more performance-oriented Turbo variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (992) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 4 GTS 3.0 (480 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | November, 2021 |
| End of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 11-11.3 l/100 km (21.4 – 20.8 US mpg, 25.7 – 25 UK mpg, 9.1 – 8.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 249-256 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg, 28.5 UK mpg, 10.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 226 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 307 km/h (190.76 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.5 kg/Hp, 288.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm, 342.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 480 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 161 Hp/l |
| Torque | 570 Nm @ 2300-5000 rpm (420.41 lb.-ft. @ 2300-5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DKKA |
| 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VarioCam Plus |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2065 kg (4552.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 163 l (5.76 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal) |
| Length | 4533 mm (178.46 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2024 mm (79.69 in.) |
| Height | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission PDK |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 408 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 380 mm |
| Front wheel tires | 245/35 R20 |
| Rear wheel tires | 305/30 R21 |
| Front wheel rims | 8.5J x 20 |
| Rear wheel rims | 11.5J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 911 Carrera 4 GTS lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, designated the DKKA. This engine builds upon the standard 992 Carrera engine, but benefits from upgraded turbochargers and a revised cooling system, resulting in a substantial power increase to 480 horsepower and 570 Nm (420 lb-ft) of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and Porsche’s VarioCam Plus variable valve timing system to optimize performance and efficiency across the rev range. The PDK 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is standard, offering incredibly quick and smooth gear changes. This transmission is known for its responsiveness and ability to adapt to various driving styles. The engine is mounted longitudinally at the rear of the vehicle, a defining characteristic of the 911.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera 4 GTS with PDK delivers a thrilling driving experience. The twin-turbochargers provide strong and readily available torque from as low as 2300 rpm, resulting in impressive acceleration. The PDK transmission complements the engine perfectly, providing seamless shifts and allowing the driver to maintain optimal power delivery. While not as raw or visceral as a manual transmission, the PDK offers a level of convenience and performance that appeals to a wide range of drivers. Compared to the base Carrera, the GTS feels noticeably more responsive and engaging. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in challenging conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. The 0-60 mph time of approximately 3.3 seconds is indicative of the car’s impressive performance capabilities.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera 4 GTS comes standard with a comprehensive list of features, including Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus), and a sport exhaust system. Interior appointments include leather upholstery, sport seats, and a GT Sport steering wheel. Optional extras include adaptive cruise control, a Bose surround sound system, and various customization options for interior trim and exterior paint colors. The GTS trim generally sits above the standard Carrera and Carrera S in terms of equipment and performance, but below the more focused and track-oriented GT3 models.
Chassis & Braking
The 992 generation 911 features a sophisticated chassis design. The Carrera 4 GTS benefits from a lowered ride height and stiffer springs compared to the base Carrera, contributing to improved handling and reduced body roll. The suspension utilizes independent McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, with larger rotors than the standard Carrera. The GTS also features Porsche’s Surface Coated Brake (PSCB) system as standard, offering improved braking performance and reduced wear.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 911 Carrera 4 GTS was widely praised by automotive critics for its balanced performance, engaging driving dynamics, and luxurious interior. It was often lauded as the sweet spot in the 911 lineup, offering a compelling combination of everyday usability and exhilarating performance. Compared to the base Carrera, the GTS provided a noticeable step up in power and handling. Compared to the more expensive Turbo models, the GTS offered a more engaging and driver-focused experience. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for 911 buyers, is reasonable for a high-performance sports car, with combined fuel consumption ranging from 11-11.3 l/100 km.
Legacy
The 992 Carrera 4 GTS is expected to hold its value well in the used car market due to the enduring appeal of the 911 and the desirability of the GTS specification. The 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine and PDK transmission are known for their reliability, provided they are properly maintained. The 992 generation represents a significant evolution of the 911 formula, and the Carrera 4 GTS stands out as a particularly well-rounded and enjoyable variant. Its blend of performance, luxury, and everyday usability ensures its continued appeal to enthusiasts for years to come.
