All set for open-top season – the new 911 Cabriolet

Customers and fans alike were instantly captivated when Porsche unveiled the prototype of the first 911 Cabriolet at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt in September 1981. The first open-top 911 variant rolled off the production line in 1982, and it has been a constant feature in the model range ever since. The open-top version of the iconic sports car includes all the innovative features of the Coupé, along with Cabriolet-specific advanced features such as new hydraulics which get the roof opened and closed more quickly than ever.

The new model echoes the modern lines of the Coupé and retains the unmistakable qualities of a Porsche 911 in Cabriolet form. The automatic soft top has a flush-mounted integrated glass rear window, while the soft-top structure includes large magnesium components known as bows, to reliably prevent ballooning of the roof at high speeds. The soft top can be opened or closed at speeds up to 50 km/h, The new lightweight roof motor reduces opening time to around 12 seconds, while the electrically extendible wind deflector can be raised within two seconds to protect occupants’ necks against wind disturbance.

The 911 Cabriolet is initially available as a Carrera S with rear-wheel drive and Carrera 4S with all-wheel drive. Both rely on a 2,981 cm³ charged six-cylinder boxer engine with 331 kW (450 PS) at 6,500/min and 530 Nm torque between 2,300 and 5,000/min. The drive efficiency has been increased and emissions reduced by way of an improved injection process; other optimisation measures have also been implemented, such as a new layout for the turbochargers and charge air cooling system. The power is delivered by a newly developed eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The 911 Carrera S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds (with optional Sport Chrono package: 3.7 seconds) and can reach speeds of up to 306 km/h. The 911 Carrera 4S attains a top speed of 304 km/h and can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds (with optional Sport Chrono package: 3.6 seconds).

The new engine mounting position makes the Cabriolet even more torsionally rigid than its predecessor. For the first time, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) sport chassis is available for the 911 Cabriolet. The springs used for this are harder and shorter, the front and rear axle cross stabilisers are more rigid, and the chassis overall has been lowered by ten millimetres. These adjustments give the 911 a more neutral feel on the road, with better weight distribution.

An exterior design that draws on earlier generations of the 911

The new 911 Cabriolet looks wider, more self-assured and altogether more muscular than its predecessor. Wider wings arch over the large 20-inch wheels at the front and 21-inch wheels at the rear. The rear-wheel-drive models now match the bodywork width of the existing all-wheel models. The rear axle is 44 mm larger here. The front end – generally 45 millimetres wider – revives a traditional feature of earlier 911 generations: a forward-extended bonnet with a distinctive recess in front of the windscreen. Both elements lengthen the front of the vehicle and give it a dynamic look.

The rear of all models is dominated by the significantly wider, variable-position spoiler and the continuous, seamless and elegant light bar. With the exception of the soft top and the front and rear sections, the entire outer skin is now made from aluminium.

Redesigned interior with clear lines

The interior is distinctive, with the clear, straight lines and recessed instruments defining the dashboard. As on the original 911, the new dashboard covers the entire width between two horizontal wing levels. Alongside the centrally positioned rev counter, two thin, frameless freeform displays deliver information to the driver. Now 10.9 inches in size, the centre screen of the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) can be operated quickly and without causing distraction.

Sophisticated assistance systems enhance safety and comfort

In a world first, Porsche has developed Wet mode, included as standard. This function detects water on the road, preconditions the control systems accordingly and warns the driver, who can then set the car up to focus on stability by simply pushing a button or using the mode switch on the steering wheel (Sport Chrono Package). The camera-based warning and brake assist system, also fitted as standard, detects the risk of collision with vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, and initiates a warning or emergency braking procedure if necessary. A park assistant system including reversing camera completes the standard configuration of the Cabriolet. Options for the 911 include Night Vision Assist with thermal imaging camera, as well as adaptive cruise control with automatic distance control, stop-and-go function and reversible occupant protection.

The 911 Carrera S Cabriolet starts from 134,405 euros in Germany and the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet from 142,259 euros, including VAT and country-specific equipment.

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