The Porsche 911 Cabriolet Carrera 4 3.6, produced from 2008 to 2011, represents a significant iteration of the iconic 911 lineage. This variant falls within the 997 generation, specifically the facelifted model introduced in 2008, and occupies a performance-oriented position within the Cabriolet range. Equipped with a 3.6-liter flat-six engine producing 345 horsepower and paired with Porsche’s innovative PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) dual-clutch transmission, the Carrera 4 offered a compelling blend of open-air driving enjoyment, all-wheel drive stability, and rapid acceleration. It served as a step up from the base Carrera models, offering enhanced grip and performance for discerning drivers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (997, facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 4 3.6 (345 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.5 l/100 km (15.2 US mpg, 18.2 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 242 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 282 km/h (175.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.6 kg/Hp, 217.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 246.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 345 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 95.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 4400 rpm (287.65 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MA1.02 |
| Engine displacement | 3614 cm3 (220.54 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt, 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 28.9 l (30.54 US qt, 25.43 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1585 kg (3494.33 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 105 l (3.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal, 14.74 UK gal) |
| Length | 4435 mm (174.61 in) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in) |
| Height | 1310 mm (51.57 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft) |
| 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, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 ZR18; 295/35 ZR18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 11J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 911 Carrera 4 3.6 lies the MA1.02 engine, a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated flat-six. This engine is a direct evolution of Porsche’s long-standing boxer engine design, known for its low center of gravity and smooth power delivery. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection (DFI), a technology that improves fuel efficiency and increases power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The valvetrain features four valves per cylinder, contributing to the engine’s high-revving nature. The 345 horsepower and 390 Nm (287.65 lb-ft) of torque are substantial figures for a naturally aspirated engine of this displacement.
The defining feature of this variant is the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission. This seven-speed dual-clutch transmission offers incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, enhancing both acceleration and driving engagement. Unlike a traditional automatic transmission with a torque converter, the PDK uses two separate clutches – one for even-numbered gears and one for odd-numbered gears – allowing for pre-selection of the next gear. This results in near-instantaneous shifts and eliminates the power interruption often associated with conventional automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera 4 3.6 PDK delivers a distinctly sporting driving experience. The all-wheel drive system provides exceptional traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, and allows for confident cornering at higher speeds. The PDK transmission complements the engine perfectly, providing rapid upshifts and downshifts on demand. While not as brutally quick as the Turbo models or the later Carrera S variants, the Carrera 4 offers a very capable 0-60 mph time of around 4.8 seconds. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making the car accessible to drivers of varying skill levels. The relatively low weight of the 997 generation, combined with the responsive chassis, contributes to a feeling of agility and balance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera 4 3.6 typically came standard with a well-appointed interior featuring leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a Bose sound system, and bi-xenon headlights. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. Popular options included sport seats, a navigation system, a sunroof, and various interior trim packages. The Cabriolet configuration added a fully automatic retractable soft top, providing open-air driving enjoyment. The standard interior color options included black, grey, and beige, with numerous customization possibilities available through Porsche’s “Personalization” program.
Chassis & Braking
The 911 Carrera 4 3.6 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 a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control. The Carrera 4 benefits from a wider track than the rear-wheel drive Carrera models, contributing to increased stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 911 Carrera 4 3.6 PDK was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its performance, handling, and the sophistication of the PDK transmission. Compared to the base Carrera models, the Carrera 4 offered superior traction and all-weather capability. However, it was more expensive and slightly heavier. Compared to the more powerful Carrera S variants, the Carrera 4 provided a more accessible and balanced driving experience, appealing to drivers who prioritized refinement and usability over outright performance. Fuel economy was reasonable for a high-performance sports car, averaging around 22.8 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The MA1.02 engine and PDK transmission used in the 911 Carrera 4 3.6 have proven to be remarkably reliable. With proper maintenance, these powertrains can withstand significant mileage. The 997 generation 911 is widely regarded as a sweet spot in the 911 lineage, offering a blend of classic Porsche character and modern technology. Today, the Carrera 4 3.6 PDK remains a desirable used car, commanding a premium over the base Carrera models. Its combination of performance, practicality, and all-wheel drive capability makes it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a classic Porsche experience.
