The Porsche 911 Carrera 4S 3.6, equipped with the Tiptronic S automatic transmission, represented a significant evolution within the 996 generation of Porsche’s iconic sports car. Produced from 2001 to 2004 as part of the “facelift” update to the 996 series (internally designated the 996.2), this variant blended the performance of the Carrera 4S with the convenience of an advanced automatic gearbox. It occupied a premium position in the 911 lineup, offering all-wheel drive capability and a more refined driving experience compared to the rear-wheel drive Carrera models or the base 911. This model aimed to appeal to drivers seeking a high-performance sports car that was also comfortable and relatively easy to drive in everyday conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 (996, facelift 2001) |
| Type | Carrera 4S 3.6 (320 Hp) Tiptronic S |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18.2 l/100 km (12.9 US mpg, 15.5 UK mpg, 5.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 12.1 l/100 km (19.4 US mpg, 23.3 UK mpg, 8.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 275 km/h (170.88 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.8 kg/Hp, 206.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 238.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 320 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89 Hp/l |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 4250 rpm (272.9 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M96.05 |
| Engine displacement | 3596 cm3 (219.44 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.8 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt, 7.74 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 31 l (32.76 US qt, 27.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1550 kg (3417.17 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1925 kg (4243.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 100 l (3.53 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal, 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4435 mm (174.61 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Height | 1295 mm (50.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic S |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 225/40 R18; 295/30 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 11J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The 996.2 Carrera 4S Tiptronic S, launched in 2001, was a key part of Porsche’s efforts to modernize the 911 while retaining its core sporting character. The facelift addressed some criticisms of the earlier 996 models, most notably the headlight design, and introduced a more powerful 3.6-liter engine. The “4S” designation indicated the inclusion of Porsche’s all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The Tiptronic S transmission, a five-speed automatic with manual shift capability, offered a compromise between the engagement of a traditional manual gearbox and the convenience of an automatic.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Carrera 4S Tiptronic S lies the M96.05 engine, a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine benefited from improvements over the earlier M96.01 and M96.02 variants, including revised cylinder heads, improved oil cooling, and a strengthened intermediate shaft. The engine utilized a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The valvetrain employed dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased power and efficiency. The Tiptronic S transmission is a sophisticated automatic gearbox that allows the driver to select gears manually via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. It features adaptive shift programming, adjusting shift points based on driving style and road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 996.2 Carrera 4S Tiptronic S delivered a refined yet engaging driving experience. While not as raw or visceral as the manual transmission versions, the Tiptronic S offered smooth and relatively quick gear changes. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent grip, inspiring confidence in a variety of conditions. The 320 horsepower and 272.9 lb-ft of torque provided ample performance for both spirited driving and comfortable cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 5.3 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 170.88 mph. Compared to the base Carrera or the higher-performance Carrera Turbo, the 4S Tiptronic S offered a balance between performance and usability. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did result in a slight performance deficit compared to the manual versions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera 4S Tiptronic S came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable seats. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to customize their vehicles to their preferences. Popular options included sport seats, a sunroof, navigation system, and various interior trim packages. The 4S models generally featured a more luxurious interior than the base Carrera, with additional leather trim and upgraded materials.
Chassis & Braking
The 996.2 Carrera 4S utilized an independent suspension system, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provided a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent handling characteristics. The all-wheel-drive system distributed power to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four corners, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, further enhancing safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 996.2 Carrera 4S Tiptronic S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its performance, handling, and refinement. However, some critics noted that the Tiptronic S transmission, while improved over earlier iterations, still lacked the engagement of a manual gearbox. Compared to the 996 Carrera models with manual transmissions, the Tiptronic S versions were typically more expensive. Fuel economy was reasonable for a high-performance sports car, but not exceptional. The 4S models were often compared to the 996 Turbo, with the Turbo offering significantly more power but at a substantially higher price.
Legacy
The 996.2 Carrera 4S Tiptronic S has become a desirable classic Porsche in the used car market. The M96.05 engine, while initially prone to some oil leaks and intermediate shaft issues, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. The Tiptronic S transmission, while not as sought after as the manual versions, offers a comfortable and convenient driving experience. These cars represent a sweet spot in the 911 lineage, offering a blend of performance, refinement, and classic Porsche styling. Values have been steadily increasing in recent years, reflecting the growing demand for well-maintained 996.2 models.
