The Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet (997) with the 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged engine and Tiptronic S automatic transmission represents a high-performance iteration of Porsche’s iconic sports car, produced from 2007 to 2008. Positioned as the flagship open-top variant of the 997 generation, it combined the thrill of a convertible with the blistering speed and advanced technology of the Turbo model. This car sat at the very top of the 997 Cabriolet range, offering significantly more power and performance than the base Carrera or Carrera S models. It was a statement of luxury and capability, aimed at drivers seeking an exhilarating driving experience without sacrificing open-air enjoyment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (997) |
| Type (Engine) | Turbo 3.6 (480 Hp) Tiptronic S |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 20.2 l/100 km (11.6 US mpg, 14 UK mpg, 5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg, 29.4 UK mpg, 10.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.7 l/100 km (17.2 US mpg, 20.6 UK mpg, 7.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 310 km/h (192.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 290 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.7 kg/Nm, 374.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 480 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 133.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 620 Nm @ 1950 rpm (457.29 lb.-ft. @ 1950 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M97.70 |
| Engine displacement | 3600 cm3 (219.69 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 25 l (26.42 US qt | 22 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1655 kg (3648.65 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Max load | 345 kg (760.59 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4427 mm (174.29 in.) |
| Width | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Height | 1310 mm (51.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic S |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 350 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 | 8.5J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 997 Turbo Cabriolet lies the M97.70 engine, a 3.6-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six. This engine builds upon the foundation of the Mezger engine family, renowned for its robustness and performance potential. The use of two turbochargers, along with intercoolers, allows for a significant boost in power output. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering precise fuel metering for optimal combustion. The 9:1 compression ratio is a compromise between performance and reliability, allowing the engine to run on premium gasoline without detonation. The Tiptronic S transmission is a five-speed automatic with manual shift capability. It features quicker shift times and a more responsive feel compared to the standard Tiptronic, offering drivers greater control over gear selection. The transmission is electronically controlled and adapts to driving style, providing smooth and efficient gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 997 Turbo Cabriolet Tiptronic S delivers a remarkably potent driving experience. The 480 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque provide exhilarating acceleration, with 0-60 mph times consistently in the 3.6-3.8 second range. The Tiptronic S transmission, while not as engaging as a manual gearbox, offers smooth and relatively quick shifts. The gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and high-speed cruising. Compared to the standard Carrera Cabriolet, the Turbo offers a significantly more powerful and responsive driving experience. While the manual transmission version of the Turbo is often preferred by enthusiasts for its greater driver involvement, the Tiptronic S provides a more accessible and comfortable driving experience, particularly in urban environments. The car feels planted and stable, even at high speeds, thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and sophisticated suspension.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 997 Turbo Cabriolet came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, heated front seats, a Bose sound system, and automatic climate control. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. Popular options included adaptive sport seats, a navigation system, and a sport steering wheel. The interior trim could be customized with various leather colors and materials. Exterior options included different wheel designs and paint colors. The standard equipment level reflected the car’s premium positioning within the 911 lineup.
Chassis & Braking
The 997 Turbo Cabriolet features a robust chassis designed to handle the engine’s substantial power. The suspension utilizes independent McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, providing excellent handling and ride comfort. The car is equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which allows drivers to adjust the damping characteristics to suit their preferences. Braking is provided by ventilated discs on all four wheels, offering exceptional stopping power. The braking system is assisted by ABS and Porsche Stability Management (PSM), enhancing safety and control. The car’s weight distribution is carefully balanced to optimize handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 997 Turbo Cabriolet was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and luxurious features. It was considered a benchmark in the high-performance convertible segment. Compared to the 997 Carrera Cabriolet, the Turbo offered a significant performance advantage, but at a considerably higher price. The Tiptronic S transmission received mixed reviews, with some critics preferring the engagement of the manual gearbox. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was reasonable for a car of this performance level. Reliability was generally good, although the complex turbocharging system required regular maintenance.
Legacy
The 997 Turbo Cabriolet remains a highly desirable Porsche model today. The M97.70 engine is known for its durability and potential for modification. Well-maintained examples command high prices in the used car market. The car’s combination of performance, luxury, and open-air enjoyment continues to appeal to enthusiasts. The 997 generation is widely regarded as a sweet spot in the 911 lineage, offering a blend of classic Porsche character and modern technology. The Turbo Cabriolet, in particular, represents the pinnacle of that generation’s capabilities.
