Porsche has been famous for its sleek 911 model since its first appearance in 1963. The 911 is known by some enthusiasts as the only "true" Porsche model because it is directly linked the original Porsche 356- though the 911's fate has been extended much longer. Since its first appearance, it has featured a powerful six-cylinder engine-though other options have been added as well. And, though the 911 was almost removed from the market several times, it always made a comeback to meet the expectations of the iconic Porsche 911 image. It's always been a best-selling vehicle and has been admired by collectors and power enthusiasts alike. Its intended successor, the Porsche 928, was easily outsold, and the Porsche 911 continued its iconic reign. Over the years, the 911 has gone through small, careful evolution to keep it exciting and fresh. It continues to meet and set its own lofty aspirations for style, power, and sleek ability.
This year, there are over a dozen Porsche 911 Carrera variants, including both coupe and Cabriolet (convertible) models. For this review, we'll focus on the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet convertible coupe. The 4 line features all-wheel-drive instead of the traditional rear-wheel drive, and the "S" model is the sportier variant of the standard Carrera 4. This Carrera produces an impressive 385 horsepower with its six-cylinder engine and manual drivetrain. Safety and technology features are plentiful, as are luxury and comfort features. Technology features include: Porsche Communications Management (which includes radio, a CD/DVD drive, an optional Bose Surround Sound System, an optional navigation system with touchscreen, a Voice Control System, and Sound Package Plus as standard), Bluetooth connection, and an automatic folding roof that's fully-electric, heat-insulated, and soundproof. This roof opens and closes in only twenty seconds and is both scratch resistant and electronically heated.
The Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet convertible coupe also includes several other standout features, including: HomeLink, Cruise control, ParkAssist (when the reverse gear is engaged), leather sport seats and sport steering wheel, and ample storage solutions. As far as safety is concerned, the 4S includes Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes, several airbags (including knee airbags), anti-theft protection, increased rollover protection, Porsche Side Impact Protection System, and minimal body flex. The sporty 4S is also fast; it achieves zero-to-sixty in less than five seconds (4.7, to be precise) with its 3.8-liter V6 engine, which produces 385 horsepower. Overall, the sporty Carrera 4S Cabriolet is aesthetically-pleasing, fuel-efficient and powerful enough to keep any picky Porsche enthusiast satisfied.