The Porsche 911 Carrera S 3.8, produced between 2011 and 2015, represents a significant iteration of Porsche’s iconic sports car, falling within the 991 generation. This model year marked a substantial redesign of the 911, introducing a longer wheelbase, a lower ride height, and a more sophisticated chassis compared to its 997 predecessor. The Carrera S 3.8 served as a performance-oriented step up from the base Carrera, offering increased power and enhanced driving dynamics. It positioned itself as the sweet spot for many enthusiasts, balancing everyday usability with thrilling performance, and was a key model in Porsche’s continued success in the luxury sports car market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 (991) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera S 3.8 (400 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.3 l/100 km (17.7 US mpg, 21.2 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 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 | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 304 km/h (188.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.5 kg/Hp, 282.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 311 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 7400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 440 Nm @ 5600 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 5600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MA1.03 |
| 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 | 29 l (30.64 US qt | 25.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1415 kg (3119.54 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1830 kg (4034.46 lbs.) |
| Max load | 415 kg (914.92 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4491 mm (176.81 in.) |
| Width | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Height | 1295 mm (50.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1538 mm (60.55 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1516 mm (59.69 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, manual transmission |
| 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; 295/30 ZR20 |
| Wheel rims size | 8.5J x 20; 11J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 991 Carrera S 3.8 lies the MA1.03 engine, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine represents a significant evolution of Porsche’s long-standing boxer design, known for its low center of gravity and inherent balance. The direct fuel injection system, a key feature of this generation, optimizes combustion efficiency and contributes to the engine’s responsive power delivery. The engine produces 400 horsepower at 7,400 rpm and 324.5 lb-ft of torque at 5,600 rpm. The 7-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise gear changes and a direct connection to the engine. Porsche also offered a 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission as an option, providing incredibly fast and smooth shifts, further enhancing performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera S 3.8 delivers a distinctly engaging driving experience. The naturally aspirated engine provides a linear power curve, building smoothly to its peak output. The rear-wheel-drive configuration, combined with the sophisticated suspension system, results in excellent handling and balance. Compared to the base Carrera, the S model offers noticeably quicker acceleration and a more responsive feel. While the manual transmission provides a traditional sports car experience, the PDK transmission allows for quicker lap times and effortless cruising. The steering is precise and communicative, providing ample feedback to the driver. The 991 generation also benefited from improved sound insulation, making it a more comfortable grand tourer than previous 911s.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera S 3.8 came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system, bi-xenon headlights, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their 911. Popular options included sport seats, a sunroof, a Bose audio system, and Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which further enhances handling by actively managing body roll. Interior trim options ranged from standard black leather to a variety of two-tone color combinations. The dashboard layout was redesigned for the 991 generation, offering a more modern and ergonomic experience.
Chassis & Braking
The 991 Carrera S 3.8 features a lightweight chassis constructed from a combination of steel and aluminum. The suspension system utilizes independent McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, providing a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling precision. Ventilated disc brakes are standard on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Porsche’s Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) were available as an option, offering even greater braking performance and fade resistance. The car’s electronic stability control system (PSM) helps maintain control in challenging conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 991 Carrera S 3.8 was widely praised by automotive critics for its performance, handling, and refinement. It was often lauded as the best all-around 911, offering a compelling blend of everyday usability and exhilarating driving dynamics. Compared to the base Carrera, the S model provided a significant performance upgrade for a relatively modest price increase. Against competitors like the Audi R8 and Mercedes-Benz 911, the Carrera S 3.8 consistently ranked highly, thanks to its superior handling and iconic status. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance sports car, averaging around 25 mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The 991 Carrera S 3.8 has proven to be a reliable and durable sports car. The naturally aspirated engine is known for its longevity, and the overall build quality is exceptionally high. On the used car market, these models hold their value well, particularly those with low mileage and a well-documented service history. The 991 generation is considered by many to be a sweet spot in the 911 lineage, offering a classic sports car experience with modern technology and refinement. It remains a highly sought-after vehicle among Porsche enthusiasts and collectors.
