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Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet (991.2)
The GTS 4 Cabriolet reminds us how awesome Porsche cars are. This is a 911 that can be used as a regular car, an all weather convertible 911 that does everything really well. And when you want to push hard, the car transforms into a true sports car, a car that no enthusiast will ever complain about. Drop-top 911s have always played a supporting role to the fixed roof versions, but in GTS specification the Cabriolet is now better than ever.
During the Geneva Motor Show, a Porsche 911 GT3 R with innovative hybrid drive is making its debut. The innovative hybrid technology featured in the car has been developed especially for racing, standing out significantly in its configuration and components from conventional hybrid systems. In this case, electrical front axle drive with two electric motors developing 60 kW each supplements the 480-bhp four-litre flat-six at the rear of the 911 GT3 R Hybrid. Instead of batteries, an electrical flywheel power generator delivers energy to the electric motors.
Porsche 993 Turbo Cabrio
The Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet (993 generation) is an incredibly rare car – only 14 were built in 1995, in the early days of 993 production. Rather than the contemporary twin-turbo powerplant in the 993 Turbo Coupe, the 993 Turbo Cab was fitted with the single turbo of the 964 Turbo 3.6. Although the Turbo Coupé was introduced earlier, the actual production started after the Turbo Cabriolets were sold. Turbo Cabriolets were 1995 models by VIN and Turbo Coupés were immediately produced as 1996 models although the 1996 model year had not yet started.
The rear of the world’s most-produced GT racing car now houses a 4-litre, six-cylinder flat engine for even more drive. Thanks to thoroughbred motorsport technology, the compact engine with direct fuel injection delivers peak performance of 357 kW (485 hp). A range of innovative details also improve efficiency in addition to engine performance, ensuring even better durability of the naturally aspirated engine in racing mode and reduced maintenance costs.
The Porsche 911T continued as the entry level 911 for the 1970 and 1971 model years, sitting below the 2.2L 911 E and the 2.2 L 911 S. The 911 T featured all the upgrades that came with C-Series production updates including longer wheelbase and Fuchs alloy wheels. During its production years it was available as both a Coupe or Targa bodystyle. As with the E and S variants, Porsche would upgrade the 911T to a larger 2.2 liter engine.
The current Turbo S comes with an all-new, 3.8 liter boxer six with two variable turbine geometry (VTG) turbochargers. The power output is a staggering 640 HP and 590 lbs-ft of torque. In keeping with previous Turbo models, the engine powers all four wheels. A new 8 speed automatic transmission with a manual mode manages the power, and can power the car to 60 MPH in a hair under a claimed 2.6 seconds. This is a staggeringly quick and capable car.
The 2005 Porsche 996 Turbo S was available as both a coupe and cabriolet – it was basically a standard Turbo model with the X50 Powerkit and carbon-ceramic brakes fitted, alongside a few luxury features for the interior. Approximately 1558 Turbo S models (split between coupe and cabrio) were sold in 2005. Also included are small aluminum appointments to the interior and Turbo S badging. A great all-rounder with the extra power to surprise most. The Turbo S with manual transmission (coupé) sprints from zero to 200 km/h in 13.6 seconds. This is another 0.8 seconds faster than the 911 Turbo. Quite rare, with only a total of 600 units made.
This car was officially called as the 911 GT2 RS Clubsport, but the name is rather misleading. The car was not built for the GT2 racing class which is long extinct and club sport has stood for Porsche club track days while this non-streel-legal car is a real racing car. Finally, the car was based on the 991 GT2 RS, which already had the Clubsport version. So, in order to understand what is what, we call it "991 GT2 RS Clubsport racing version". The 991 GT2 RS engine with 515 kW was powerful enough, so it was not tuned.
The Porsche 911 E was designed to fall nicely between the 911 T touring model and the top of range high-performance 911S. The Porsche 911 T would continue for its second year in Europe, and newly introduced into the United States market, as the entry level offering for the 911, sitting below the 1969 911E and the 1969 911S. The 1969 911E was powered by engine Type 901/09 (Type 901/11 with Sportomatic) featuring mechanical fuel injection (MFI). The 2.0 L Aircooled Flat 6 was good for 140 bhp at 6500 rpm.
The reality was that in the past you could basically build your own GTS. In the past, Porsche offered an optional factory "power kit" for 911 Carreras, but things are different now. That isn't an option for the 992. The 992 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS is therefore your only pass for accessing a version of the 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six tuned up to 473 hp and 420 ft lbs of torque. Those figures are achieved via an approximately 14.5 percent increase in turbo boost pressure.
Porsche introduced the turbocharged version of the Type 996 for the 2001 model year (late 2000 in Europe). Like the 996 GT3, the Turbo's engine was derived from the engine used in the 911 GT1. Like its predecessor, the 993 Turbo, it featured twin-turbos but now had a power output of 420 PS (309 kW; 414 hp). As of 2002, the X50 package would increase engine output to 444 hp. The 996 Turbo was available with a 6-speed manual transmission or an automatic (Tiptronic), driving power to all four wheels. This is a great great car.
The two 997 Targa 4 cars are both offered in only all-wheel-drive. Available with either a 3.6 litre flat 6 in the Targa 4, or with a more powerful 3.8 litre flat 6 in the Targa 4S, the new car offers almost all the fun of a convertible without sacrificing the dynamic abilities of a hardtop. The Targa 4S gets to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and tops out at 179 mph thanks to its 3.8 liter flat six pumping out 350 bhp and 295 ft lbs of torque. It has softer spring rates than the coupe, a more generous helping of leather in the cabin, a better tally of standard equipment, more storage space behind the front seats.
Two decades after the different 911 GT1 cars the mid-engined 911 is back! In order to install a proper diffuser under the rear end of the 991, the engine had to make room for it and the engine/transmission unit was rotated 180 degrees. The extended rear diffuser, a top-suspended rear wing and the new side mirrors help to increase downforce with reduced drag. The FIA rules meant no turbo was needed due to power limits, so the normally aspirated 4-litre flat-6 was taken from the 991 GT3 R.
In 2002, the standard Carrera models underwent a facelift. In addition, engine capacity was also increased to 3.6-litres across the range, with power up slightly on the naturally aspirated models. 2002 also marked the start of the production of the 996 based Targa model, with a sliding glass "green house" roof system as introduced on its predecessor. It also features a rear glass hatch which gave the driver access to the storage compartment. The 996 Targa is the rarest bodystyle in the series – only 5,152 were produced (all Mk.2 generation) between 2002 and 2005.
The 993 Carrera RSR takes the 993 Carrera RS formula and makes it even more track-ready by adding a roll-cage and removing carpet, power windows, and a/c. There were just thirty Porsche 911 Cup 3.8 RSR (Type 993) race cars produced for the 1997 season. This model was the last of the breed of air-cooled, naturally-aspirated 911 race cars to come from the Weissach race department before the introduction of the Type 996 water-cooled cars. To find a 993 3.8 RSR that participated in some of the world’s toughest endurance races in period, and survived unscathed and unmolested, is quite rare.
The 911 SC effectively replaced the 911 S and was one of Porsche's first models that was meant for the international market. It was sold as a cheaper alternative to the 911 Turbo. The SC used an unblown version the 930 Turbo unit that offered 180 to 200 bhp depending on model year. Options included the rear whale tail, front chin spoiler, Bilstein dampers, 16 inch wheels with Pirelli P7 tires and sports seats. Sometimes dealers lumped these options together to create their own sport package. It was available as a Coupe and Targa from 1978 - 1983, while the Cabriolet version was only available in 1983.
To commemorate the 40th year of 911 production, Porsche built 1963 of the 40th Anniversary Porsche 911 Carrera for model year 2004. Painted only in a GT Silver Metallic finish, with a dark gray leather interior, the 40th Anniversary (or 40 Jahre in German) took the Base Model 996 Carrera and added the front fascia of the 996 Turbo, side skirts and luxury features for the cabin – including a luggage set that matched the special grey leather interior. Mechanically, the X51 Powerkit increases power to 341hp, combined with rear wheels power wheels, a standard 6-speed manual and sport suspension and limited-slip differential included.
Commemorating 25 years of Porsche sports car production, the 911S Silver Anniversary Edition is distinguished by unique Diamond Silver Metallic paint and a special black leatherette and tweed interior. The first of Porsche’s commemorative ‘celebration’ cars, this Silver Anniversary was produced in a limited run of 1,063 examples, of which approximately 500 are reported to have made their way to the United States.
The 1989/90 change of model year saw the launch of the Porsche 911, 964 series onto the market. This 911 model was initially available as a Coupe, Targa and Convertible. From model year 1991 onwards Porsche also introduced its top-of-the-line model - the Turbo - into this series. In spite of bearing a major similarity in terms of look to the naturally-aspirated model, the extended wings remained. This meant that the new Porsche could retain its turbo look. The 964 Turbo model was the successor to the Porsche 930. The 964 Turbo was the end of an era, the last of the single turbo rear-wheel drive 911 Turbos.
The Targa was the half-convertible bodywork offered by Porsche for the 911. By removing only a part of the roof and leave the closed-coupe rigid structure. It was offered a better sensation than a sunroof and it wasn't as heavy as a convertible. Unlike the previous Targa generation, the 993 featured a glass panel over the front passengers instead of a fabric one. The rest of the bodywork looked similar to the Carrera. The engine was a completely reworked flat-six, with a 3.6-liter displacement with the VarioCam system, which offered 285 hp. It was mated either with a 6-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic.
For 1974 both the 911 Carrera RSR 3.0 and RSR Turbo 2.1 were created - the 3.0L for the customer teams and the 2.1 turbo for Porsche’s own team. The 911 Carrera RSR Turbo 2.1 developed 338-368 kW in power, but as the engine was small, the turbo lag was big and it wasn’t as easy to drive out of the corners as it was with the 3-litre normally aspirated car. Weight reduction measures included plastic hoods, fender flares and doors and an aluminium safety cage.
Porsche 911 Carrera 2 Coupe (964) (1990 - 1994)
Porsche added the rear wheel drive Carrera 2 variant to the range in 1990. It was developed alongside the 964 Carrera 4, Porsche waited a year to release the Carrera 2 as a 1990 model year car. Like the Carrera 4, the Carrera 2 was available as a coupé, Targa or Cabriolet. Overall, the Carrera 2 packed almost the same technical specifications as the Carrera 4 model. The engine was the same 3.6 liter unit which produced 250 horsepower and a maximum speed of 162 mph. Looked like C4 but was 200 lb lighter and more fun to drive.
The Carrera 4 is the base model 911, equipped with all-wheel drive. It starts at $109,850 for 2022, which is about $7,000 more than the standard rear-drive Carrera. Other than the additional all-wheel-drive system and the 150 odd pound increase in curb weight, the Carrera 4 is identical to its rear-drive sibling. It gets the same 379-hp, twin-turbo 3.0-liter flat-six engine. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six has 379 hp.
The 993 Turbo was available between late 1995 to 1998. Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.6 liter flat six, it was rated at 402-horsepower. It’s distinguished easily from the rear, as the whale-tail spoiler is quite deep to house the intercoolers meant to cool the intake charge. This extra power might have been a handful for street drivers, so all-wheel drive from the 993 Carrera 4 added traction at all four corners. Approximately 6,000 coupes were made. Although powered by a different engine, a limited production 993 Turbo Cabriolet was available in the early days of the 993 generation. A more powerful 993 Turbo S was also introduced in 1997.
The cylinder number and position (six, horizontal) remained the same as before, but the displacement has been reduced to 3.0 liters (from 3.4 liters) and a pair of turbos has been strapped on the engine. And thanks to the force-feeding’s high potential, the same 3.0-liter unit is used for the Carrera S as well (instead of the 3.8-liter flat-six). As a result, the power figures in the Carrera 2 Cabriolet gained 20 hp and some 40 lb-ft of torque vs the prior generation. More importantly, the turbocharging makes the Carrera’s 332 foot-pounds of torque available way quicker, from just 1,700 rpm.
A single car - the 911 GT1-98 Straßenversion - was built in 1998 to homologate the all-new racing version under the new FIA regulations. The engine had to be slightly de-tuned to meet European emissions laws, although its 400 kW (544 PS; 536 hp) at 7,200 rpm and 600 N⋅m (443 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,250 rpm proved to be more than adequate; the car could accelerate to 100 km/h (62 mph) from a standstill in 3.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 193 mph.
In the case of the 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet that begins with a larger, more potent six-cylinder engine. The Carrera 4S is powered by a 3.8-liter flat six that produces 355 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. The roughly ten percent increase in power translates to improved acceleration and higher top track speed. The 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet with the six-speed manual gearbox races from a stop to 60 mph in only 4.7 seconds, topping out at the track at 185 mph. When carrying the optional Tiptronic S transmission, the zero to 60 mph sprint takes a mere 4.5 seconds.
Porsche refers to it as a new generation, even though the internal chassis code 997 remains unchanged. The 997.2 therefore is more of a mid-term facelift with some significant technological changes. Notably, the water-cooled flat-six engines get direct-injection technology, and a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission replaces the previous five-speed Tiptronic automatic while the shift-it-yourself option remains a six-speed. Base Carrera coupe gets 339 bhp and 287 ft lbs and a 0.3 second faster 0 - 60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. Top speed now 179 mph. A nice update indeed.
The new Porsche 911 GT3 carries the same four-litre flat engine from the GT3 RS with its power increased by 25hp for a new total of 500hp. The chassis is also redesigned and now features a rear-axle steering and a lighter construction. The Porsche 911 GT3 type 991.2 comes in at 1,430 kg when its tank is full. Although it is a bit heavier than the previous model, it still manages to reach 0-100km/h in just 3.4 seconds and reach top speeds of 318km/h. What’s more interesting here is that Porsche finally decided to switch back to a 6-speed manual gearbox (7-speed PDK is standard).
Finally, in 1982 the model 911 SP 'Ferry Porsche' was introduced as a special edition to celebrate 50 years of Porsche. This special edition was finished in Meteor metallic paint with burgundy leather interior and a 'Ferry Porsche' signature on the headrests. Only 200 of these now-classic special cars were built (130 Coupes and 70 Targas). The 911 SC “Jubilee” or “Ferry Porsche” is the first “limited series” sold in Europe.
Model year 1994. Carrera 4 Wide-Body for the U.S. Technically there is really no difference between the Carrera 4 Wide-Body and his RoW counterpart. At the front there are the for America usual black impact absorbers beside the fog lights, the frontfenders lack the side indicators, the rear bumper is equipped with the center piece with a small plate section and in the back window of a large third brake light is integrated. Significant differences, it is generally provided in the factory standard equipment.
The GTS coupe starts with the wider Carrera 4 body, with the rear fenders pushed out 1.7 inches, and the rear track widened 1.6in. Up front is the new SportDesign front fascia with its lower front spoiler and larger cooling air intakes. Standard wheels are 20-inch center lock items and 0.5 inch wider than standard Carrera S rims, finished in satin black. There are splashes of black elsewhere, too. The changes run more than skin deep. Bigger turbos pump up to 18psi of boost pressure which helps deliver not only 30 extra horses at 6,500 rpm, but 405 lb-ft of torque between 2,150 rpm and 5,000 rpm, up from 368 lb-ft. This is the sweet spot.
The 993 Carrera RS Clubsport, 213 of which were built to meet the FIA GT2 homologation requirements, is a race-ready, although street legal variant of the 993 Carrera RS, not to be confused with the track only 993 Carrera Cup RSR. Emphasizing its competition credentials, the 993 Carrera RS Clubsport came with a welded-in roll cage as standard, considerably increasing its rigidity, racing bucket seats, six-point safety harnesses, battery isolator switch, fire extinguisher, and a huge fixed rear wing, the latter also available on the 'base model' Carrera RS.
The 911 Targa received the same upgrades during the switchover to the 997.2 generation, including a boost in power and performance. The expansive glass roof now featured increased UV protection. This is the point in Porsche 911 Targa history when the model re-established itself as the perfect halfway measure between a true coupe and a convertible. Porsche engineered a wildly complex power-retracting center roof piece and left the rear glass fixed in place. Beyond this fabulous roof mechanism, it’s the same Carrera 4.
Towards the end of the 1996 season, Porsche made revisions to the 911 GT1 in preparation for the 1997 season. The front end of the car was revised including new bodywork which featured headlamps that previewed the all-new generation of the (996) Porsche 911 which would be unveiled in 1997. It had the same engine as the previous version, but new aerodynamic elements allowed the 1997 version to be considerably faster than the 1996 version. At Le Mans the works cars led the race but did not last the full distance; a privately entered 1996 specification GT1 managed 5th overall and third in its class.
To celebrate 60 years of Porsche Club of America, PCNA (Porsche Cars North America) ordered 60 units of 911 Carrera GTS Coupés in Club Blue from Porsche Exclusive. All 60 cars were equipped with SportDesign aerokit (including ducktail). These Club cars were not numbered because it wasn't a special series by Porsche AG, but a series of similarly equipped cars ordered by PCNA. The cars got a few unique touches by Porsche Exclusive, like the special "Club Blau" paint, the "Club Coupe" stickers on the doors, the door entry guards with ''GTS Club Coupe" lettering and number "60" embossed on the armrest cover.
The Porsche 911E continued as the midrange 911 model for 1972 and 1973, fitting between the contemporaneous 2.4L 911T and the 2.4L 911S. As with the T and S variants, Porsche would upgrade the 911E to a new, larger 2,341 cc (2.3 L) engine, commonly known as the "2.4 L" engines. The 911E version, designated 911/52 was rated at 165 hp (it was designated 911/62 with Sportomatic). With the power and torque increase, the 2.4-liter cars also got the newer and stronger transmission.
The 997 Sport Classic is a limited edition version of the 997.2 Carrera S coupé inspired by the 1973 Carrera RS 2.7. The engine is rated at 413 PS (304 kW; 407 hp) and features a newly developed resonance intake manifold with 6 vacuum-controlled switching flaps. It includes a 6-speed manual transmission, double-dome roof (informally called double bubble roof), 44 mm (1.7 in) wider rear fenders, SportDesign front apron with a front spoiler and a fixed 'duck tail' rear wing. Only 256 were made.
Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS (991.2)
The 911 Targa 4 GTS isn't the fastest or best performing 911. It is heavier, softer and not as fast as every other GTS model. But we still love it. The Targa 4 GTS has amazing performance coupled with the sexiest body in the business. In GTS trim the Targa body looks even better. This is the car you get when you can only choose one 911 and you need it for fun weekends, daily driving and taking the wife out to a fancy restaurant. With 450 hp and 405 lb-ft from 2150 to 5000 rpm, it also has more than enough street performance than you could ever need. Buy one.
In 1999, Porsche celebrated the turn of the century with a special edition – the 996 "Millennium Edition". The 911 Millennium edition was based on the Carrera 4 coupé and was pretty rare, with only 911 cars made. Based on the Carrera 4, the "Millennium Edition" was limited to 911 examples and was based exclusively on the wide bodied Carrera 4. This special edition was finished in Violet Chromaflair paint, which, depending on the light changes from dark violet to light green and is quite spectacular to look at. It also got a caramel-colored leather interior and polished "turbo-twist" wheels.
Put most simply, a 912 is essentially a 911-style body mated with a 356-derived 4-cylinder engine. The 356 was Porsche’s first mass-marketed sports car. The Porsche 911 is the most successful sports car of all time. the new 912 came equipped with 90HP motor was a slightly detuned version of the 95HP motor that had powered its predecessor, the 356SC. However, despite this reduction of power, and despite the 912 being a heavier car, it was actually faster than the 356SC thanks to more streamlined aerodynamics and a more advanced suspension system.
The second generation GT3 takes all that was good about it's predecessor and then improves it! Power from the GT1 derived flat-6 is up by 21 bhp to 381 bhp (with an 8200 rpm redline), ride height is lowered for increased stability and also has an upgraded braking setup, as it features a 6-piston calipers on the front. Two versions are offered, the more extreme 'Clubsport' showing it's track day colors with a full roll cage, racing seat and a 6-point harness. The 996.2 GT3 was the first GT3 marketed in the North America. The new Porsche 911 GT3 comes with all the features of half a century Porsche motorsport. It is a sports car for the purist through and through.
With the 1993 Carrera 2 as the starting point, Porsche had to make at least 50 roadgoing cars in order to qualify this new model for the Carrera ADAC GT Cup, which served as the basis for a motor racing variant to come, the Carrera RSR 3.8. The RSR 3.8 was nothing short of an all-out race car that could be delivered to the track in a ‘just add driver’ form. The Porsche Carrera RSR 3.8 racked up a catalogue of impressive international race results right from the outset, winning overall at the Spa 24 Hours, Suzuka 1000km, and the 24 Hours of Interlagos.
The new Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS combines a 408 hp 3.8-litre flat six engine with intelligent all-wheel drive that delivers a further exhilarating dimension to the dynamics of the iconic rear-engined sports car. The 911 was first offered with four-wheel drive in 1989 and the drivetrain has been a popular option ever since. Now, the 911 Carrera 4 GTS broadens customer choice in 2011, building on the success of the two-wheel drive Carrera GTS that went on sale in December last year. The 911 Carrera 4 GTS power unit has its origins in the 3.8-litre, six-cylinder from the Carrera S, with the power kit added.
After introducing the Porsche Carrera S with the body carried-over from the Turbo version, customers asked about an all-wheel-drive version for it. The 993 Carrera 4S was sold between 1995 to 1998. Much like the 993 Carrera S, the 993 Carrera 4S takes the 993 Carrera 4 powertrain and fits it into the widebody 993 Turbo shell, sporting 18" alloy wheels. The engine was the same 3.6-liter naturally aspirated, but it was offered in the higher power output of 285 hp. As with the Carrera 4, it was only available with a 6-speed manual transmission. The 4S did not have a cabriolet version.
The perfect daily driving sports car with an all-weather, remarkably high-performance envelope. Like the rest of Carrera S models, the Carrera 4S is powered by the same 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six that makes 443 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. It also comes standard with the same eight-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission with the same gear ratios, except the 4S with an added clutch and differential up front.
For this 991 generation Targa, Porsche went back to the original Targa concept, albeit with an even sexier design and some very cool technical tricks to boot. Porsche wanted to resurrect its classic design, but the company feared that owners would not want to get out of the car, lift off the roof panel, and stow it in the trunk. The other issue was, in the words of 911 product line director Dr. Erhard Mossle, "that the manual solution was a little bit old-fashioned." The 911 Targa 4 gets the same 350 horsepower, 3.4-liter six-cylinder motor as its hardtop siblings.
All Porsche 911s are turbocharged these days but the Turbo model is something special. It gets the twin-turbo 3.7-liter flat six with tons of power and a huge $33,000 savings over the Turbo S. Thanks to an output of 573 hp, marking an increase of 32 hp over the predecessor, the new 911 Turbo Cabriolet accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 2.8 seconds (0.2 seconds faster than before). The Turbo Cabriolet basically handles like a coupe.
For 2009, engine power is distributed to all four wheels via the same electronically controlled Porsche Traction Management system found previously only on the Porsche Turbo. The electronic controls respond to driving conditions even more instantaneously than the previously used hydraulically activated all-wheel drive system. The Carrera 4S model, with a 3.8-litre engine developing 355 bhp, can go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 185 mph.
The rarest 964 RS variant was the awesome 964 C4 Lightweight. Known as the 964 Leichtbau it made use of surplus parts from 953 Paris-Dakar project. A handful of specially prepared lightweight 911s were fabricated by the Porsche factory and called the Carrera 4 RS Lightweight. Carrera RS Body with 959-like AWD wizardry and more power. Lightweight masterpiece. Used parts from 953 Paris-Dakar project. The 964 C4 Lightweight was powered by the same 3.6 liter flat six as the normal 964 RS, but was fettled to produce 300 hp.
Porsche 911 ’30 Jahre’ Anniversary (964) (1993)
In March 1993, Porsche presented the Porsche 911 anniversary model “30 years 911” at the Geneva Motor Show. Since then, the special model is also called “Jubi” for short. Under the Porsche internal code M096, there is essentially a Carrera 4 with the wide turbo body but without wings. The 964 anniversary edition could be ordered with exclusive interior design and numerous possibilities of customization. According to Porsche, the special model was limited to 911 vehicles and manufactured in the model years 1993 and 1994.
The 997 Carrera 4 was the all-wheel-drive version of the standard 997 Carrera and it arrived as a 2006 model year car (along with the 4S models). The 997.1 Carrera 4 had a3.6 L Watercooled Flat 6 (M96/05) engine that was good for 321 bhp @ 6800 rpm and 273 ft lbs @ 4250 rpm. It had a sub 5 second 0 - 60 mph hour time and a top speed of 174 mph. The transmission (six-speed manual or five-speed Tiptronic) feeds a forward propshaft that mates to a viscous coupling unit with a front differential.
The 996 series was a monumental update to the 911 story. The Type 996 introduced water-cooled engines and it also ushered in a new body design. The roof line with a windscreen which is around five degrees flatter gives the side view a more fluid look. Gone was the "classic" 911 design, the entire main body now much sleeker. The flat six in the Carrera 996 was a newly-developed flat-six engine that offered 300 hp. It was mated as standard with a six-speed manual. A 5-speed automatic (Tiptronic) with manual override to shift gears was on the options list. As always, the Carrera 2 was rear-wheel-drive.
The Touring makes sense for those who envision their GT3 more as a daily mode of transportation than a track specialist (it can do both well). GT performance is good enough for any paved road but the Touring was created for a certain type of personality. There is no other car that can invoke a sense of connection and purpose like a GT3 Touring (with a 6-speed manual transmission) can. This is the car to buy and own forever.
The Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup features the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup, the world’s best-selling race car. For this season, it’s the new generation. 510 hp, optimised intake manifold, electronic gearshift and power steering, fully digital cockpit, larger rear wing, and a double-wishbone front axle. This is a meaningfully upgraded race car. The new 911 GT3 Cup is taking on a great legacy. And it has already proven itself!
With all-wheel drive and all the GTS goodies, the Carrera 4 GTS sits in a very practical place in the Porsche 911 lineup. The 4 GTS is a Carrera 4S with all the items Porsche thinks you should have at a price that is less than choosing them yourself. Standard equipment on the GTS that is normally optional on the Carrera S includes the Sport Chrono Package, Sport Exhaust, bi-xenon lights with PDLS (Porsche Dynamic Lighting System) and PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management). Inside, four-way adjustable sport seats are standard.
The 500 hundred numbered 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series cars cross the 600 hp mark with their 446 kW engines. The power increase does not make much difference performance wise, but it is good to know you have more than 600 hp. Similar in acceleration and top speed to the ‘regular’ Turbo S, the car reaches 200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.6 seconds (0.3 seconds faster than the regular Turbo S). The car comes standard with the Turbo Aerokit and roof panel made of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic.
Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet (991.2)
Porsche really has hit its brief with the turbocharged Carrera GTS Cabriolet. It is hugely capable on the road, easy to live with on a daily basis, and come the weekend, it’s massively fast on track. For the money, and for drivers who really want just a little more 911, but without the mind-bending speed of a Turbo or uncompromising nature of a GT3, then this is the car for you. It also looks unique and has enough of its own style that it it feels special both on the outside and inside.
Removing the roof the car is supposed to have little impact on its chassis stiffness and curvy road prowess, but Porsche tells us that the current generation 911 Cabriolet drives just as well as the coupe. Powering the base Cabriolet is the same impressive turbocharged flat-six engine that makes 379 bhp @ 6500 rpm and 331 ft lbs of torque. The base cabriolet can do the 0 to 60 mph run in 4.2 seconds flat. With the optional Sport Chrono Package that drops to 4.0 seconds.
Also produced for the 1976 "model year", for the U.S. market, was the 912E, a 4-cylinder version of the 911 like the 912 that had last been produced in 1969. It used the I-series chassis and the 2.0 Volkswagen engine from the Porsche 914. In all, 2092 units were produced. In 1976, the Porsche 924 took this car's place for the 1977 "model year" and beyond. The power was supplied by a 4-cylinder high-performance fuel injection motor also used in the Volkswagen 411.
Porsche 911 Cup 3.8 (993) (1994 - 1998)
The 993 Carrera Cup 3.8 was developed from the 993 Carrera RS, as purpose-built competition car designed by Porsche for its single-model racing series taking place around the world. Replacing the 964 Carrera Cup, the 993 Carrera Cup had a claimed 315 bhp on tap, weighed only 1,100kg, and offered a top speed of around 270km/h (170mph). Approximately 216 samples were built. The Carrera Cup should not be confused witth the Carrera RSR, or the 993 Carrera RS Clubsport version.
In 1972 Porsche Design was founded. The celebratory car is a 911 Targa 4 GTS, painted and finished to commemorate the Chronograph 1, which Porsche says was the first all-black watch. Gloss black paint is highlighted by a Satin Platinum finish on the targa bar and wheels. Inside, the Edition 50 Years Porsche Design—as English majors, you have no idea how painful it is for us to type that—gets black-and-gray checkered upholstery, a slate-gray steering wheel, and plenty of limited-edition badging, including F.A. Porsche's signature embossed into the center armrest. The powertrain is standard for the Targa 4 GTS.
In 1967 the A-Series Porsche production line was divided into the entry-level 911T, the standard 911 L for Lux and the sporting 911S. The 911L was effectively the 911 2.0 from previous years with only very minor updates such as new door handles, a brushed aluminum dashboard, a black steering wheel and other very minor details. In Europe, where it was considered the midrange model it featured engine Type 901/06 (Type 901/07 with Sportomatic) rated at 130 hp. In North America, the 911L was the highest level offering.
Porsche has also decided to gift the GTS a more distinct and dynamic personality that can’t be duplicated via the Carrera S’s options list (even if you could get the engine, which you cannot). The downside is that the price has gone up too and ticking a few more options boxes can get the Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet into 911 Turbo territory price-wise. In the engine department, the 3-litre twin turbo flat six develop 473 bhp and 420 ft lbs.
Everything you need to know about the 991.1 Turbo S Cab comes from Car and Driver test results. "Launch control puts the computer in charge and sends the 3741-pound Turbo S Cab to the far side of 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds. A quarter-mile that nearly breaks into the 10s—11.1 seconds at 124 mph—attests to how serious this car gets when provoked. We saw 1.0 g on the skidpad and a stopping distance of 151 feet, both strong numbers abetted by the hilariously staggered Pirelli P Zeros (245/35 in front, 305/30 in back)". This is in a comfortable, all-wheel drive, grand touring convertible.
The 2014 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet is a great companion to its coupe sibling. The Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet delivers the same blend of dynamism, performance and efficiency offered by the Coupe. The turbocharged 3.8-litre six-cylinder engine delivers 520 bhp and it helps drivers accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 3.1 seconds (there goes your hair style). Compared to the 997.2 Turbo Cabriolet the new Turbo Cab delivers 30 bhp more power and are 0.2 seconds faster in terms of their standard acceleration. It is also up to 15% more efficient and more luxurious and comfortable to boot.
Homologated roadgoing version of the ’97 911 GT1 Evolution racer costing $890,805 upon release. Twin-turbochargers were fitted to the M96/80 engine, which had water-cooled cylinder heads. Apparent from the front and rear lights, the GT1 shares many components with its series production counterparts, but puts them together in a more competitive way. Gone is the rear engine layout which isn't suitable for prototype GT racing, the GT1's turbocharged flat-six engine sits in front of the rear axle and is supported by chassis tubes instead of the typical 911 rear sub frame. 
Features like Porsche’s active suspension and the new-for-992 “wet mode” are standard on the Carrera 4 variants, but the electronically controlled limited slip rear differential (standard on the 4S), as well as ceramic composite brakes (cast iron rotors are standard). The current 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet is equipped with PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management). The twin-turbo flat-six has 379 hp and 331 ft lbs of torque.
The heart of this most exclusive high-performance athlete is of course a six-cylinder boxer boosted by two exhaust gas turbochargers with variable turbine geometry, with an increase in power over the 911 Turbo by 30 to 530 bhp (390 kW). Maximum torque is a most impressive 700 Newton-metres (516 lb-ft). At the same time this new top model comes as standard with all high-tech components available only as options on the “regular” 911 Turbo. The 911 Turbo S comes exclusively with seven-speed Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) conveying drive power to PTM all-wheel drive.
The Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet also features a heated glass rear window and integrated magnesium support elements. The automatic fabric top opens and closes at speeds of up to 31 miles per hour in just 12 seconds – one second quicker than before. The 992 Carrera S Cabriolet gets a twin-turbo 3.0-liter flat-six with 443 bhp and 390 ft lbs of torque. That is 29 more horsepower and 22 more ft lbs of torque than the outgoing model.
At the heart of the 991.2 911 Turbo is a twin-turbocharged flat-six with 540 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque. That’s a meaningful 20 more horses than the 991.1 Turbo. Improvements that come from increases in boost and fuel-injection pressures. Rounding the skidpad, the Turbo posts 1.02 g’s relatively easily. The wide P Zeros in back and the standard four-wheel steering conspire to hide the fact that 62 percent of the Turbo’s 3656 pounds sits over the rear wheels. With sport-plus selected, the 991.2 Turbo hits a 1.0-second run to 30 mph and a 2.6-second zero-to-60 time.
The 992-era 911 GT3 confirms that Porsche is prepared to go to astonishing lengths to keep the hardcore faithful happy. The engine is a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre that revs to 9,000 rm and has little in common with the unit found elsewhere in the 992 range and a lot to do with the one in the GT3 Cup car. Power is up a modest 10bhp to 503 bhp, torque to 347 ft lbs. That’s more than enough. It’ll accelerate to 62mph in 3.4 seconds. It is the best sports car on the planet.
With the Turbo S, the PDCC Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control hydraulic roll bars came as standard. The PCCB Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes had been standard on the Turbo S already since the 996 generation. New options included the radar-based lane change assist and a lift system for the front axle (increased ground clearance by 1.6″/40 mm). The PCM now had a multi-touch screen like in the facelifted 991 Carrera. Routes and places could be visualized with 360-degree images and satellite images. Engine gets more horsepower too, now with 572 bhp and 553 ft lbs of torque.
The Carrera S was the ultimate, naturally aspirated version of the Carrera 2. Porsche decided to offer something more to its customers when it launched the Carrera S version. It featured a stiffer and lowered suspension. Its wider tires made it better in the corners and faster around a race-track than its Carrera 2 sibling. The Carrera S took its bodywork from the Porsche Turbo. But it didn't get the turbocharger or the all-wheel-drive system. Its wider rear fenders and lowered stance than the Carrera lineup made it a desirable car for the Porsche fans. The engine was the same 3.6-liter naturally aspirated, but it was offered in the higher power output of 285 hp. The only transmission available was a 6-speed manual.
As with the previous 996 Targa model, the most striking feature of the car is the large, sliding-glass roof and glass rear hatch, which blend sleekly into the classic 911 lines while providing the Targa with its own unique personality. Like the rest of the range the Targa 4S got a visual refresh and the all-new direct injection engine. In the Targa 4S, it produced 380 bhp @ 6500 rpm and torque of 310 ft lbs @ 4400 rpm. 0 - 60 mph takes just 4.5 seconds (PDK) and top speed is 185 mph.
Most importantly, the refreshed Carrera 4 and 4S lose the old multi-plate, viscous all-wheel-drive system in favor of the electronically controlled system from the 911 Turbo. The old system could send between 5 and 40 percent of engine torque to the front wheels once it had detected wheelspin. The new electronic system can anticipate traction losses and shift up to 100 percent of engine torque fore or aft. Porsche says the new AWD system reacts faster to traction changes, and doesn’t make the Carrera 4 significantly heavier.
The 996 was initially available in a coupé or a cabriolet (Convertible) bodystyle with rear-wheel drive, and later with four-wheel drive, utilising a 3.4 litre flat-6 engine generating a maximum power output of 221 kW (300 PS; 296 hp).[7] The 996 had the same front end as the entry-level Boxster. After requests from the Carrera owners about their premium cars looking like a "lower priced car that looked just like theirs did", Porsche redesigned the headlamps of the Carrera in 2002. With the cabriolet, buyers have a choice between this version and the hotter Carrera 4S cabriolet.
The first road-going 911 Turbo was not the familiar 930 that entered production in February 1975. Nor was it the engine-less prototype that had appeared at the Paris Motor Show in October 1973. Instead, it was a one-off narrow-bodied mule that was subsequently gifted to Ferry Porsche’s sister, Louise, on her 70th birthday in August 1974. Built on chassis 9115600042, this 2.7 Carrera Turbo also pre-dated the prototype 930 that was shown in almost production-ready at Frankfurt show in 1974.
The 996 Cabriolet was introduced in March 1998 at the Geneva Motor Show. The 996 Cabriolet was long ready (remember, it was tested already in 1995), but for marketing and production-related reasons it was launched in 1998 as a 1999 model. While the evolution with the 911 coupe was questionable from 993 to 996, the real evolution came with the cabriolet. In USA - the biggest market - 911 Cabriolets outsold the Coupés. The all-wheel-drive system provides between 5-40% of torque to the front wheels depending on the situation.
It would be a disservice to call this new Turbo a "lesser" car than the Turbo S, but it does have less in most departments. Less power at 573 HP. Less features compared to the jam-packed Turbo S. Most importantly, less money required to put one in your garage. This also is not to say that the new Turbo isn't anything short of a monster. It will still go 0 to 60 in 2.8 seconds, will corner like it was on rails with Porsche Torque Management (PTM) all-wheel-drive.
Porsche is the most successful marque in the 24 Hours of Le Mans and British drivers have played an important role in delivering these historical achievements, and in celebration of this success a special limited edition model – the 911 Carrera 4 GTS British Legends Edition was created. Designed by the drivers who took wins in the 24 Hours of Le Mans for the factory team – Richard Attwood (winner 1970), Derek Bell MBE (winner 1981, 1982, 1986, 1987) and Nick Tandy (winner 2015) – this model was developed by Porsche Cars GB and Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur.
To the untrained eye, the Carrera T may appear to be a bare-bones and sparingly equipped 911 at first glance. The purpose of the T is to create a driver-focused 911, equipped with only the necessities required to appeal to those of a purist’s ilk. The Carrera T employs the same power plant used in the current base Carrera - a twin-turbocharged 3.0L flat-six with 370 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. A 7-speed manual transmission comes standard with the T, along with a shorter final-drive ratio and the limited-slip differential. Porsche Sport Exhaust (PSE) is also standard. PASM sport suspension comes standard in the T, which lowers the chassis by 0.4 inches relative to the base Carrera and allows for two modes of dampening.
The 993 Carrera 4, sold between 1995 and 1998, uses the same powerplant as the standard 993 Carrera, but puts power down to all four wheels through a 6-speed manual transmission. A “Carrera 4” badge on the tail, along with silver-painted brake calipers and clear front and side turn signals, help distinguish the all-wheel drive C4 from the C2 sibling. Approximately 4,700 coupes and 2,500 cabriolets were made. It was replaced by the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 (996 generation) in 1999.
To comply with homologation requirements, Porsche built two street versions of their 1996 Le Mans contender. These pre-production cars are essentially the same as the race version without all the safety equipment, a higher ride height and more interior amenities. The two street versions were actually built in 1995 as 1996 model year cars. The engines were slightly detuned from 600 bhp to 544 and the gear ratios were changed.
The return of the Touring badge, now on the Type 992. In a way, the car may seem sparingly equipped, and apart from the paint color, the wheels, and if you want a 7-speed manual or 8-speed PDK, it is. But it’s what it’s equipped with that makes the Porsche drivers smile. The purist-focused Carrera T is perfectly specced for fun, with its sweet rear-wheel drive, no rear seats, and a manual gearbox for just $118,050.
Along with all the C-series improvements to the 911 line, the 1970 Porsche 911 S was upgraded to include a 180 bhp version flat-6. This further improved the performance credentials of the model which already had Fuchs light alloy wheels and bigger brakes. Specific to the S model's engine was a re-profiled camshaft, larger valves, better porting, higher compression and larger jets for the Weber carburetors. This resulted in 30 more horsepower for a total 180 horsepower.
Porsche 911 Speedster (Turbo-Look) (964)
In contrast to the 911 Speedster from the 1989 model year, the 964 Speedster was only offered and produced with the narrow body shape. In December 1991, the first wide bodied prototype based on a 964 Carrera 2 Convertible Turbo-Look was registered at Porsche AG, but it never made it ready for a series production. In response to recurring customer requests for Turbo-Look Speedsters - the optical characteristics of the wide body in combination with the flat windscreen and fiberglass cover had found many fans - Porsche converted the previously individually ordered, narrow Speedster in the exclusive department.
The first generation of the Porsche 911 begins in late 1964 and goes through 1968. The "base" model was an instant hit. During this period, Porsche would make continuous improvements and tweaks to the body, to its short wheelbase (SWB) chassis, and to its 2.0 liter flat six engine. Model year 1968 would be the last for the early 911, a transition that would begin with the introduction of the higher output 911S in 1967, followed by the 911L and a new entry level 911T in 1968, and finally, the 911E in 1969. The base 911 was available as both a Coupe and Targa (starting in '67).
The 2012 Carrera 4S Cabriolet had the same wider rear track when compared to the non-S version of the vehicle. It wasn't something everyone would notice, but the difference was there for a reason, and that reason was the wider tires installed. From behind, a rear red light-strip united the LED taillights. Inside the Carrera 4S Cabriolet, there were some luxury features. The leather-covered sport-bucket seats were covered in leather. Even the rear, unusable, seats were wrapped in leather. The center console was higher to give a sense of a single-seat racing roadster.
The 1998 GT1 car was a totally rethink and vast upgrade versus the prior year car. 1998 Le Mans 24-hour race In the 1998 jubilee year, the Porsche team celebrated its 16th overall victory in Le Mans with a double win for the 911 GT1 98. On 6th/7th June, the winning car was driven by Laurent Aiello, Allan McNish and Stéphane Ortelli. It was almost 50 years to the day on which the first Porsche sports car saw the light of day.
In 1988, Porsche produced 875 examples of the CE or Commemorative Edition 911 Carrera in coupe, targa and cabriolet variants to mark the production of the 250,000th 911. Distinguishing features include special diamond blue metallic paint with color-matched Fuchs wheels, front and rear spoilers, and interior carpets and leather. These cars also featured Dr. Ferdinand Porsche's signature embroidered on the seats in the headrest area.
The replacement for the SC series came in 1984 as the 911 3.2 Carrera, reviving the Carrera name for the first time since 1977. This was the last iteration in the original 911 series, with all subsequent models featuring new body styling and new brake, electronic, and suspension technologies. Almost the same galvanised body as the SC. Engine was claimed to be 80 per cent new, and the first production 911 to feature an ECU to control the ignition and fuel systems.
Introducing this new top-of-the-range model, Porsche is once again placing a 911 Turbo Cabriolet right at the top of the family after a break of 14 years: From 1987 - 1989 the Porsche 930, as the first Turbo was code-named within the Company, set the first milestone in the history of these outstanding open-air sports cars. With cylinders still featuring two valves each at the time, the 3.3-litre power unit driving the first Turbo Cabriolet offered maximum output quite unique at the time of 300 bhp or 221 kW. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h was in 5.2 seconds and the car had a top speed of 260 km/h or 161 mph.
Based on the 530-bhp 911 Turbo S, the special-edition Porsche has carbon-fiber trim inside and out, plus upgraded leather, badging and the exterior colors of the 918, including the use of Acid Green on the brake calipers, illuminated sill plates, interior stitching and instrument cluster needles. Also limited to 918 units, the 911 Turbo S Edition 918 Spyder will be available in Coupe ($160,700) and Cabriolet ($172,100) forms, making this one very expensive dealer option.
The original 1973 Carrera RS was available in Europe but not in the USA. Porsche decided to build the 1993 Carrera RS both to European spec and a limited number in compliance with US regulations. These US spec cars were assigned the name “RS America”. The intent was to create a basic lightweight, no frills 911 with minimal luxury options. The standard US Carrera 2 brakes, engine and gearbox were used. The RS weighed 2,945 pounds so it was almost 80 pounds lighter than a standard Carrera 2.