The Porsche 911 Cabriolet (997) Carrera 3.6, equipped with the Tiptronic S automatic transmission, represented a significant iteration of Porsche’s iconic sports car. Produced from 2006 to 2008, this variant occupied a middle ground within the 997 generation, offering a blend of performance and convenience. It sat above the base Carrera models and below the more focused Carrera S and track-oriented variants. The 997 generation itself was a substantial redesign of the 911, addressing criticisms of the preceding 996 model and introducing a more modern interior and improved build quality. This particular configuration aimed to broaden the 911’s appeal to drivers seeking a sophisticated open-top experience without sacrificing the core Porsche driving dynamics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (997) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 3.6 (325 Hp) Tiptronic S |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 17 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.6 UK mpg, 5.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.4 l/100 km (20.6 US mpg, 24.8 UK mpg, 8.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 275 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 280 km/h (173.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp, 213.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 243.4 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 325 Hp @ 6800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 90.4 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 | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 31 l (32.76 US qt | 27.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1920 kg (4232.88 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 135 l (4.77 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4427 mm (174.29 in.) |
| Width | 1808 mm (71.18 in.) |
| Height | 1310 mm (51.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic S |
| 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 |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 235/40 ZR18; 265/40 ZR18 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 18; 10J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 997 Carrera 3.6 Tiptronic S lies the M96.05 engine, a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated flat-six. This engine, a hallmark of Porsche engineering, features a dry-sump lubrication system, crucial for maintaining oil supply during the high G-forces experienced in spirited driving. The M96.05 utilizes multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. This configuration allows for precise control of valve timing, optimizing engine performance across the rev range. The Tiptronic S transmission is a five-speed automatic with a torque converter, offering both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. This transmission was designed to provide smoother shifts and quicker response compared to earlier Porsche automatics.
Driving Characteristics
The 997 Carrera 3.6 Tiptronic S delivers a refined driving experience. While not as overtly aggressive as the Carrera S or the manual transmission variants, it provides ample power for both everyday driving and enthusiastic weekend excursions. The Tiptronic S transmission, while offering convenience, does introduce a slight efficiency loss compared to the manual gearbox. Gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel economy. The car feels planted and stable, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive layout and well-tuned suspension. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 5.4 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 174 mph. The engine’s torque curve is relatively flat, providing strong pull throughout the rev range, making it a forgiving and enjoyable car to drive.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera 3.6 Tiptronic S came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a Bose sound system, and power-adjustable seats. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. Popular options included sport seats, a navigation system, and various interior trim packages. The Cabriolet version, of course, featured a fully automatic retractable soft top, offering open-air driving enjoyment. The standard interior was well-appointed, but the 997 generation marked a significant improvement in interior quality compared to the 996.
Chassis & Braking
The 997 Carrera 3.6 Tiptronic S utilizes an independent suspension system at all four corners. The front suspension employs McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear features a multi-link setup. This configuration provides excellent handling and ride comfort. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety and control. The chassis is constructed from a combination of steel and aluminum, contributing to a relatively lightweight and rigid structure.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 997 Carrera 3.6 Tiptronic S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, comfort, and refinement. However, some reviewers noted that the Tiptronic S transmission wasn’t as engaging as the manual gearbox. Compared to the base Carrera with a manual transmission, the Tiptronic S offered greater convenience but slightly reduced fuel economy and performance. Against the Carrera S, it lacked the extra power and more aggressive suspension tuning. The 997 generation as a whole was considered a significant improvement over the 996, addressing many of the criticisms leveled at its predecessor.
Legacy
The M96.05 engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing failure, a potential issue that affects many 996 and 997 models. However, many owners proactively address this issue with an updated IMS bearing. The 997 Carrera 3.6 Tiptronic S remains a desirable used sports car, offering a compelling combination of Porsche performance and open-top driving enjoyment. Its relatively accessible price point and strong build quality make it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking a classic Porsche experience. The car’s enduring appeal is a testament to Porsche’s engineering prowess and the timeless design of the 911.
