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 Carrera GTS 3.0 bridged the gap between the standard Carrera models and the more track-focused GT3. It benefited from significant updates introduced with the 991.2 refresh, including a downsized, turbocharged engine and revised styling. This model catered to drivers seeking a thrilling experience without sacrificing everyday usability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (991 II) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera GTS 3.0 (450 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 12.9 l/100 km (18.2 US mpg, 21.9 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 214 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 13.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 310 km/h (192.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 296.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 361.8 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 | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1970 kg (4343.11 lbs.) |
| Max load | 450 kg (992.08 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, 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 |
| 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 represented a significant departure from the naturally aspirated engines of previous 911 generations. The use of turbocharging allowed for a substantial increase in power and torque while improving fuel efficiency. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and variable turbine geometry (VTG) turbochargers to optimize performance across the rev range. The engine produces 450 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 550 Nm (405.66 lb-ft) of torque between 2150 and 5000 rpm. The 7-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise shifts and a direct connection to the engine. Porsche also offered an optional 8-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission for quicker gear changes and enhanced convenience.
Driving Characteristics
The 991.2 Carrera GTS 3.0 Cabriolet delivers a remarkably engaging driving experience. The twin-turbocharged engine provides strong and readily available torque, resulting in impressive acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 4 seconds, and the car can reach a top speed of 192.63 mph. Compared to the standard Carrera models, the GTS benefits from a more aggressive engine tune, a sport exhaust system, and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard equipment. This results in a firmer ride and more precise handling. While the manual transmission offers a more visceral experience, the PDK transmission provides seamless gear changes and quicker acceleration times. The Cabriolet configuration adds a slight weight penalty compared to the coupe, but the open-top driving experience more than compensates for it.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera GTS 3.0 Cabriolet came well-equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, sport seats, a Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with a 7-inch touchscreen display, and a high-quality sound system. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. Popular options included adaptive cruise control, a premium sound system, carbon fiber interior trim, and various exterior customization options. The GTS also featured unique styling cues, such as blacked-out exterior trim, a sport design package, and GTS badging.
Chassis & Braking
The 991.2 generation 911 Cabriolet utilizes a lightweight chassis construction with extensive use of aluminum. The suspension system features independent McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) electronically adjusts the damping characteristics based on driving conditions and driver preferences. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The GTS model benefits from larger brake rotors and calipers compared to the standard Carrera models. The steering system is a precise and responsive rack-and-pinion setup with electric power assistance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 991.2 Carrera GTS 3.0 Cabriolet was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and overall driving experience. The turbocharged engine was initially met with some skepticism from purists, but its impressive power delivery and efficiency quickly won over most reviewers. Compared to the naturally aspirated 991.1 models, the 991.2 GTS offered a noticeable improvement in performance and fuel economy. The GTS also provided a compelling alternative to the more expensive and track-focused GT3. Its combination of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment made it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
Legacy
The 991.2 Carrera GTS 3.0 has proven to be a reliable and well-regarded sports car. The turbocharged engine has demonstrated good long-term durability, and the PDK transmission is known for its robustness. On the used car market, these models hold their value well, reflecting their desirability and performance credentials. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and inspections, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of the engine and other components. The 991.2 GTS represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the 911, showcasing Porsche’s commitment to innovation and performance.
