The Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet, specifically the 3.8-liter variant produced from 2008 to 2012, represents a significant iteration of the iconic 911 lineage. This model falls within the 997 generation, benefitting from the 2008 facelift which brought revised styling, updated engine technology, and enhancements to the interior. Positioned as a high-performance, all-wheel-drive convertible, the Carrera 4S Cabriolet aimed to deliver a thrilling driving experience combined with open-top motoring. It occupied a premium position within the 997 Cabriolet range, sitting above the base Carrera and Carrera S models, and offering a more capable and luxurious experience than its rear-wheel-drive counterparts.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (997, facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 4S 3.8 (385 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 16.1 l/100 km (14.6 US mpg, 17.5 UK mpg, 6.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.7 l/100 km (30.5 US mpg, 36.7 UK mpg, 13 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 251 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.5-4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.5-4.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 295 km/h (183.3 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.1 kg/Hp, 241.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 263.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 385 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 101.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 4200 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MA1.01 |
| Engine displacement | 3800 cm3 (231.89 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 | 29 l (30.64 US qt | 25.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1595 kg (3516.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 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 | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| 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 | 235/35 ZR19; 305/30 ZR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet lies the MA1.01 engine, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine benefits from Porsche’s Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) technology, which precisely meters fuel directly into the combustion chambers, improving efficiency and power output. The engine produces 385 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The boxer configuration, with its horizontally opposed cylinders, contributes to a low center of gravity, enhancing handling and stability. The engine’s 12.5:1 compression ratio further aids in maximizing performance. Paired with the engine is Porsche’s seven-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, contributing significantly to the car’s acceleration and overall driving experience. The PDK allows for both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera 4S Cabriolet with the PDK transmission delivers a remarkably engaging driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, and enhances cornering stability. The PDK transmission’s quick shifts and seamless operation contribute to a 0-60 mph time of around 4.3 seconds and a top speed of 183.3 mph. Compared to the standard Carrera or Carrera S with a manual transmission, the PDK-equipped 4S offers slightly quicker acceleration due to the minimized interruption in power delivery during gear changes. While not as raw or visceral as a manual transmission, the PDK provides a level of convenience and performance that appeals to a wider range of drivers. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making the car accessible yet rewarding to drive.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera 4S Cabriolet came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver and passenger seat, 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 interior design was typically Porsche – functional, well-built, and focused on the driver. The Cabriolet top was fully automatic and could be raised or lowered in a matter of seconds, providing open-air enjoyment when desired.
Chassis & Braking
The 997 generation 911 featured a robust chassis with independent suspension at all four wheels. The front suspension utilized McPherson struts, while the rear employed a multi-link setup. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The Carrera 4S was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles dynamically, optimizing traction and stability. The steering is a hydraulic rack and pinion system, offering precise and communicative feedback to the driver.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its performance, handling, and luxurious features. The PDK transmission was particularly lauded for its responsiveness and ease of use. Compared to the rear-wheel-drive Carrera 4S Cabriolet, the all-wheel-drive version offered improved traction and stability, making it a more practical choice for drivers in colder climates or those who frequently drive on wet roads. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for 911 buyers, was reasonable for a high-performance sports car, averaging around 22 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs could be high due to the car’s complex engineering and the cost of Porsche parts.
Legacy
The 997-generation 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet remains a desirable sports car in the used market. The 3.8-liter engine and PDK transmission are considered a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a compelling combination of performance, refinement, and usability. The MA1.01 engine is known for its durability, provided it has been properly maintained. Regular oil changes and adherence to Porsche’s recommended service intervals are crucial for long-term reliability. Today, these cars are sought after by enthusiasts who appreciate the classic 911 design and driving experience, and they continue to provide a thrilling and rewarding driving experience.
