The Porsche 911 Cabriolet Carrera 4 3.6, produced from 2001 to 2004, represents a significant evolution of the 996 generation 911. This facelifted model, often referred to as the 996.2, addressed many of the criticisms leveled at the earlier 996s, particularly concerning the headlight design and interior quality. The Carrera 4 3.6 occupied a premium position within the 911 Cabriolet range, offering all-wheel drive for enhanced stability and a more powerful 3.6-liter flat-six engine. It was positioned above the base Carrera models and below the more focused and track-oriented Carrera 4S.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (996, facelift 2001) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 4 3.6 (320 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16.3 l/100 km (14.4 US mpg, 17.3 UK mpg, 6.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg, 25 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 285 km/h (177.09 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp, 211.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 245 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 | 1510 kg (3328.98 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1915 kg (4221.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 405 kg (892.87 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 | 4430 mm (174.41 in.) |
| Width | 1770 mm (69.69 in.) |
| Height | 1305 mm (51.38 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 | 205/50 R17; 255/40 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 17; 9J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 996.2 Carrera 4 3.6 is the M96.05 engine, a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated flat-six. This engine represented a significant improvement over the earlier M96.01 and M96.02 engines found in the first generation 996s. Key improvements included an updated intermediate shaft (IMS) design intended to address concerns about bearing failure, a revised oil cooling system, and improved cylinder head castings. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for excellent breathing and contributes to the engine’s responsive nature. The engine produces 320 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 370 Nm (272.9 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The standard transmission for this model year was a six-speed manual, providing precise gear changes and a direct connection to the engine. While a Tiptronic S automatic transmission was available as an option, the manual was favored by enthusiasts for its enhanced driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera 4 3.6, with its all-wheel-drive system, offers a noticeably more planted and secure feel than the rear-wheel-drive Carrera models. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The six-speed manual transmission features well-spaced gear ratios, allowing the driver to keep the engine within its optimal power band. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 4.9 seconds, and the car can reach a top speed of 285 km/h (177 mph). Compared to the base Carrera, the Carrera 4 provides increased stability and confidence-inspiring handling. However, it does carry a slight weight penalty due to the additional components of the all-wheel-drive system. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making the car accessible to drivers of varying skill levels.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera 4 3.6 came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a CD stereo system, and power-adjustable seats. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to customize their cars to their preferences. Popular options included sport seats, a navigation system, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The interior of the 996.2 benefited from improved materials and build quality compared to the earlier 996s, addressing a common criticism. The dashboard layout is driver-focused, with clear and concise instrumentation.
Chassis & Braking
The 996.2 Carrera 4 3.6 features an independent suspension system with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This suspension design provides a comfortable ride while maintaining excellent handling characteristics. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The car is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The all-wheel-drive system contributes to the car’s stability during braking, particularly on slippery surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 996.2 Carrera 4 3.6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its improved engine reliability, enhanced interior quality, and engaging driving experience. Compared to the base Carrera, the Carrera 4 offered increased stability and all-weather capability, making it a more practical choice for drivers in colder climates. However, the Carrera 4S, with its wider body, larger wheels, and more powerful engine, remained the enthusiast’s choice. Fuel economy was reasonable for a high-performance sports car, with combined fuel consumption of around 20.8 US mpg.
Legacy
The 996.2 Carrera 4 3.6 has proven to be a relatively reliable sports car, particularly compared to the earlier 996 models. The updated IMS bearing design significantly reduced the risk of engine failure. Today, these cars are becoming increasingly collectible, offering a compelling combination of performance, style, and relative affordability. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream sports cars, the 996.2 Carrera 4 3.6 remains a rewarding and engaging driving machine that embodies the Porsche 911’s enduring appeal.
