The Porsche 911 Cabriolet (991) Carrera 4 GTS 3.8, produced from 2014 to 2015, represents a compelling blend of performance and open-air driving enjoyment within the broader 991 generation of the iconic 911. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the Carrera 4 range, the GTS model aimed to bridge the gap between the standard Carrera 4 and the more track-focused GT3. It offered increased power, enhanced handling, and a more aggressive aesthetic, all while retaining the everyday usability expected of a 911. The 991 generation itself was a significant evolution of the 911 formula, introducing a longer wheelbase, a wider track, and a more sophisticated chassis compared to its predecessor, the 997.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (991) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 4 GTS 3.8 (430 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.9 l/100 km (16.9 US mpg, 20.3 UK mpg, 7.2 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 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg, 28.2 UK mpg, 10 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 235 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 303 km/h (188.28 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.6 kg/Hp, 279.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 285.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 430 Hp @ 7500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 5750 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 5750 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 102 mm (4.02 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 | 26.3 l (27.79 US qt | 23.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1935 kg (4265.94 lbs.) |
| Max load | 395 kg (870.83 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4509 mm (177.52 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1294 mm (50.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 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, manual transmission |
| 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 | 245/35 ZR20; 305/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 20; 11.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 911 Carrera 4 GTS 3.8 lies the MA1.01 engine, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine builds upon the foundation of the standard 3.8-liter Carrera engine but benefits from revised intake and exhaust systems, as well as a more aggressive engine map. The direct fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, maximizing efficiency and power output. The engine produces 430 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 324.53 lb-ft of torque at 5,750 rpm. The 7-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise shifts and a direct connection to the engine. The engine’s rear-mounted, longitudinal configuration contributes to the 911’s unique handling characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera 4 GTS 3.8 delivers a thrilling driving experience. The increased power output compared to the standard Carrera 4 is immediately noticeable, providing quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel. The manual transmission, with its well-defined gate, encourages driver engagement. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in challenging conditions, enhancing stability and confidence. While not as overtly track-focused as the GT3, the GTS offers a superb balance between performance and usability, making it a rewarding car for both spirited driving and everyday commutes. The gear ratios are tuned to provide strong acceleration in all gears, and the engine’s willingness to rev contributes to its engaging character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GTS trim level came standard with a number of performance and aesthetic enhancements. Sport seats were standard, providing excellent support during spirited driving. The interior featured Alcantara trim on the steering wheel, gearshift knob, and door panels, adding a sporty touch. Exterior styling cues included unique front and rear fascias, wider rear track, and blacked-out wheels. Optional extras included Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which further enhances handling by actively managing body roll, and a sport exhaust system, which delivers a more aggressive exhaust note. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system provided navigation, audio, and connectivity features.
Chassis & Braking
The 991 Carrera 4 GTS benefits from a sophisticated chassis design. The wider track compared to earlier 911s contributes to increased stability and cornering grip. The suspension utilizes independent McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. Ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels provide ample stopping power. The GTS model also featured a Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) system as standard, allowing the driver to adjust the damper settings for a more comfortable or more sporty ride. The all-wheel-drive system utilizes a viscous coupling to distribute power between the front and rear axles as needed.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 911 Carrera 4 GTS 3.8 was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, handling, and everyday usability. It was often seen as the sweet spot in the 991 Carrera range, offering a significant step up in performance from the standard Carrera 4 without the extreme focus of the GT3. Compared to the standard Carrera 4, the GTS offered a more engaging driving experience and a more aggressive aesthetic. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance sports car, but not a primary focus. Reliability was generally good, consistent with Porsche’s reputation for engineering excellence.
Legacy
The 991 Carrera 4 GTS 3.8 has proven to be a durable and desirable sports car in the used car market. The naturally aspirated engine is highly regarded by enthusiasts for its responsiveness and sound. The 7-speed manual transmission is also a sought-after feature. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream sports cars, the 911’s robust engineering and readily available parts supply ensure that it can be kept on the road for many years to come. The 991 GTS continues to be appreciated for its balanced performance, timeless design, and the unique driving experience that only a Porsche 911 can deliver.
