The Porsche 911 Cabriolet (992) Carrera 3.0, producing 385 horsepower, represents a significant evolution in the iconic 911 lineage. Introduced in July 2019 and continuing through May 2024, this variant occupies a crucial position as the entry point into the 992 generation Cabriolet range. It blends the open-air experience of a convertible with the performance expected of the 911 badge, utilizing Porsche’s advanced technology and engineering. This model is built on the 992 platform, representing the eighth generation of the 911, and is characterized by its wider body, updated interior, and enhanced driving dynamics compared to its predecessor, the 991. The Carrera 3.0 with the PDK transmission aimed to deliver a balance of performance and usability, appealing to a broad spectrum of drivers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (992) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 3.0 (385 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | July, 2019 |
| End of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg, 24.8 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg, 30.7 UK mpg, 10.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 210 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 291 km/h (180.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.1 kg/Hp, 244.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 285.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 385 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 129.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1950-5000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1950-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DKCA |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1575 kg (3472.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2015 kg (4442.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 132 l (4.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4519 mm (177.91 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2024 mm (79.69 in.) |
| Height | 1297 mm (51.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1591 mm (62.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission PDK |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), 4-wheel steering (4WS, active rear steering) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 235/40 R19, Rear wheel tires: 295/35 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 19, Rear wheel rims: 11.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 992 Carrera 3.0 Cabriolet lies the DKCA engine, a 2.981-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and variable turbine geometry (VTG) turbochargers to deliver a responsive and powerful driving experience. The boxer configuration contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling and stability. The engine produces 385 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque between 1950 and 5000 rpm. The PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is standard, offering incredibly fast and smooth gear changes. This transmission features a sophisticated electronic control unit that optimizes shift points for performance or efficiency, depending on the selected driving mode.
Driving Characteristics
The 992 Carrera 3.0 PDK delivers a refined yet engaging driving experience. The PDK transmission provides near-instantaneous shifts, contributing to a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.2 seconds and a top speed of 180.82 mph. While not as overtly aggressive as the higher-performance Carrera S or GTS models, the 3.0-liter engine provides ample power for both daily driving and spirited excursions. The PDK transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to balance acceleration and fuel economy. Compared to a manual transmission equipped 992 Carrera, the PDK offers greater convenience and slightly quicker acceleration, but some purists may prefer the more direct engagement of a manual gearbox. The rear-wheel drive configuration and the engine’s rearward placement contribute to excellent balance and handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 992 Carrera 3.0 Cabriolet came standard with a comprehensive array of features, including Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with a 10.9-inch touchscreen display, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), and a partially leather interior. Standard upholstery typically included a combination of leather and Race-Tex (a microfiber material). Optional extras were extensive, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles with features such as adaptive cruise control, a premium sound system, sport seats, and various interior trim packages. The Cabriolet also featured a fully automatic fabric roof that could be raised or lowered in approximately 12 seconds, even while driving at moderate speeds.
Chassis & Braking
The 992 generation 911 features a significantly revised chassis compared to the 991. The Carrera 3.0 Cabriolet utilizes an independent suspension system with 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 road conditions and driving style. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The front brakes measure 330mm, while the rear brakes are also 330mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with other electronic stability control systems.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 992 Carrera 3.0 Cabriolet was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. Compared to the more powerful Carrera S models, the 3.0 offered a more accessible entry point into the 992 generation, with a lower price tag and slightly better fuel economy. While the Carrera S provided more exhilarating performance, the 3.0 was considered a more practical and versatile option for everyday driving. Reliability has been generally good, with the PDK transmission proving to be a robust and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 (992) PDK Cabriolet represents a compelling combination of tradition and innovation. The DKCA engine and PDK transmission have proven to be reliable and capable powertrains. On the used car market, these models hold their value well, reflecting the enduring appeal of the 911 nameplate. The 992 generation, as a whole, is considered a significant step forward for the 911, and the Carrera 3.0 Cabriolet offers a desirable blend of performance, luxury, and open-air driving enjoyment, making it a sought-after model among enthusiasts.
