The Porsche 911 Cabriolet (991) Carrera 4 3.4, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a significant iteration of Porsche’s iconic sports car. Falling within the first generation of the 991 series, it blended the open-air thrill of a cabriolet with Porsche’s renowned all-wheel-drive system and a naturally aspirated flat-six engine. This variant occupied a middle ground in the 991 Cabriolet lineup, offering a balance between performance and everyday usability, positioned above the base Carrera models but below the more powerful Carrera S variants. It was a key model for Porsche in the North American market, where the combination of performance, prestige, and open-top driving was highly valued.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (991) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 4 3.4 (350 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 223 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 282 km/h (175.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 230.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 256.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 350 Hp @ 7400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 101.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 5600 rpm (287.65 lb.-ft. @ 5600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MA1.04 |
| Engine displacement | 3436 cm3 (209.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 97 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 77.5 mm (3.05 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 29 l (30.64 US qt | 25.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max load | 380 kg (837.76 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 285 l (10.06 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 68 l (17.96 US gal | 14.96 UK gal) |
| Length | 4491 mm (176.81 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1532 mm (60.31 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 ZR19; 295/35 ZR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 991 Carrera 4 3.4 lies the MA1.04 engine, a 3.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-six. This engine is a direct evolution of the previous generation’s powerplant, but with significant advancements in direct fuel injection, revised valve timing, and reduced internal friction. The direct injection system, operating at pressures up to 200 bar, allowed for more precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The engine produced 350 horsepower at 7,400 rpm and 287 lb-ft of torque at 5,600 rpm. The engine’s flat-six configuration, also known as a boxer engine, contributes to a low center of gravity, enhancing handling and stability. The standard transmission for this model was a seven-speed manual, but a seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch automatic transmission was also available as an option. The PDK offered incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, further enhancing the driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera 4 3.4 offered a refined and engaging driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather, making it a practical choice for drivers in regions with varying conditions. While not as brutally fast as the Carrera S models, the 3.4-liter engine delivered ample power for spirited driving. The manual transmission provided a direct connection to the engine, while the PDK offered seamless shifts and the convenience of automatic operation. The steering was precise and communicative, and the suspension provided a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling prowess. The all-wheel drive system biased power towards the rear wheels under normal conditions, maintaining the classic Porsche driving feel, but could dynamically shift power to the front wheels when needed for optimal grip.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 991 Carrera 4 3.4 came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and bi-xenon headlights. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. Popular options included sport seats, a Bose audio system, adaptive cruise control, and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which minimized body roll during cornering. Interior trim options included various leather colors and finishes, as well as carbon fiber accents. The Cabriolet featured a fully automatic fabric top that could be raised or lowered in approximately 13 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 31 mph.
Chassis & Braking
The 991 generation 911 utilized a lightweight chassis construction, incorporating aluminum in key areas to reduce weight. The suspension featured independent McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The Carrera 4 3.4 was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety and control. The standard wheel size was 19 inches, with staggered tire widths (wider tires at the rear) to optimize grip and handling. The all-wheel-drive system employed a multi-plate clutch to distribute power between the front and rear axles.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 991 Carrera 4 3.4 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its balanced performance, comfortable ride, and sophisticated all-wheel-drive system. Compared to the base Carrera, the Carrera 4 offered improved traction and stability, making it a more confident performer in all conditions. Compared to the Carrera S, it offered a slightly less aggressive driving experience but at a lower price point. Fuel economy was respectable for a sports car of its caliber, averaging around 25 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system and the hydraulic lifters in the engine.
Legacy
The 991 Carrera 4 3.4 remains a desirable Porsche model in the used car market. Its combination of performance, practicality, and timeless design has ensured its enduring appeal. The MA1.04 engine is known for its durability, although regular maintenance is essential to prevent issues. The 991 generation 911 is considered by many to be a high point in the model’s evolution, offering a compelling blend of classic Porsche character and modern technology. Values for well-maintained examples have remained relatively stable, reflecting the continued demand for this iconic sports car.
