The Porsche 911 Carrera GTS 3.8, equipped with the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, represented a significant step up in performance and driving engagement within the 991 generation of the iconic 911. Produced from 2014 to 2015, this variant occupied a sweet spot in the lineup, bridging the gap between the standard Carrera models and the more focused, track-oriented GT3. It was positioned as a driver’s 911, offering a blend of everyday usability and exhilarating performance. The 991 generation itself was a major evolution of the 911, introducing a longer wheelbase, a wider track, and a more sophisticated chassis compared to its predecessor, the 997.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 (991) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera GTS 3.8 (430 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 12.2 l/100 km (19.3 US mpg, 23.2 UK mpg, 8.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 202 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 304 km/h (188.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.4 kg/Hp, 297.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.3 kg/Nm, 304.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 430 Hp @ 7500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 113.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 5750 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 5750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MA1.01 |
| Engine displacement | 3800 cm3 (231.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 102 mm (4.02 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 | 26.3 l (27.79 US qt | 23.14 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1445 kg (3185.68 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 385 l (13.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4509 mm (177.52 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1295 mm (50.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission PDK |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 245/35 ZR20; 305/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 20; 11.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 911 Carrera GTS 3.8 PDK lies the MA1.01 engine, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine benefited from an increased bore and stroke compared to the standard Carrera 3.8, resulting in a displacement of 3800cc. It featured direct fuel injection, maximizing combustion efficiency and contributing to the engine’s 430 horsepower output at 7500 rpm and 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque at 5750 rpm. The engine’s flat-six configuration provides inherent balance, contributing to smooth operation. The PDK transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission. It offers incredibly fast and precise gear changes, both in automatic and manual modes. Unlike a traditional automatic, the PDK uses two separate clutches – one for even-numbered gears and one for odd-numbered gears – allowing for seamless shifts without interruption of power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 3.8-liter engine and the PDK transmission resulted in a thrilling driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 3.8 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 304 km/h (188.9 mph). The PDK transmission’s quick shifts and intelligent programming allowed the engine to remain in its optimal power band, providing strong acceleration in any gear. Compared to the standard Carrera with a manual transmission, the GTS PDK offered slightly quicker acceleration due to the transmission’s efficiency. However, some purists argued that the manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience. The GTS, even with the PDK, felt more responsive and visceral than the base Carrera, thanks to the engine’s increased power and the sport-tuned suspension.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera GTS 3.8 PDK came standard with a generous array of equipment. Interior features included sport seats upholstered in leather, a sport steering wheel, and aluminum trim accents. Standard exterior features included the wider body from the Carrera 4 models, a sport exhaust system with a distinctive sound, and 20-inch alloy wheels. Optional extras included Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which minimized body roll during cornering, and a range of customization options for the interior, such as different leather colors and trim materials. The GTS trim generally included features that were optional on the standard Carrera, making it a more comprehensively equipped vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The 991 Carrera GTS benefited from Porsche’s advanced chassis technology. It featured a fully independent suspension with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The suspension was tuned for a balance of comfort and performance, providing a firm but controlled ride. The GTS also received larger brakes compared to the standard Carrera, with ventilated discs at all four corners. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, ensuring safe and effective braking performance. The steering was a precise rack-and-pinion system, providing excellent feedback to the driver.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 911 Carrera GTS 3.8 PDK was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and overall driving experience. It was seen as a compelling alternative to the more expensive and track-focused GT3, offering a more versatile and comfortable package. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance sports car, with combined fuel consumption of around 27 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs for a Porsche 911 are inherently higher than for more mainstream vehicles. Compared to the Carrera S, the GTS offered a noticeable increase in performance and a more aggressive character. Compared to the Carrera 4, the GTS offered similar performance but with a more focused, rear-wheel-drive driving experience.
Legacy
The 991 Carrera GTS 3.8 PDK remains a highly sought-after model in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and Porsche pedigree makes it a desirable choice for enthusiasts. The MA1.01 engine is known for its durability and reliability, provided it has been properly maintained. The PDK transmission has also proven to be a robust and reliable unit. As a representative of the 991 generation, the GTS embodies Porsche’s commitment to engineering excellence and driving pleasure, and continues to deliver an engaging and rewarding experience for its owners today.
