The Porsche 911 Cabriolet (997) Carrera 4S 3.8, equipped with the Tiptronic S automatic transmission, represents a compelling blend of performance and open-air driving enjoyment within the broader 997 generation (2005-2008). Positioned as a mid-to-high range offering within the 997 Cabriolet lineup, it catered to drivers seeking all-wheel drive stability coupled with the convenience of an automatic gearbox, without sacrificing the core 911 driving experience. This variant built upon the foundation of the 997 platform, known for its significant advancements over the preceding 996 generation, including a redesigned interior and improved build quality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (997) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 4S 3.8 (355 Hp) Tiptronic S |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2008 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 18 l/100 km (13.1 US mpg, 15.7 UK mpg, 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 286 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 280 km/h (173.98 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.5 kg/Hp, 221.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 250 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 6600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 92.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 4600 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M97.01 |
| Engine displacement | 3824 cm3 (233.35 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Compression ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 31 l (32.76 US qt | 27.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1975 kg (4354.13 lbs) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 105 l (3.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal) |
| Length | 4427 mm (174.29 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| 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 | 235/35 ZR19; 305/30 ZR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 997 Carrera 4S Tiptronic S lies the M97.01 engine, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine benefits from Porsche’s long-standing expertise in horizontally opposed engine design, providing a low center of gravity for improved handling. The M97.01 utilizes multi-port fuel injection, a proven technology for reliable and consistent fuel delivery. The engine produces 355 horsepower at 6600 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4600 rpm. The Tiptronic S transmission is a five-speed automatic with a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to exert more control over gear selection. It features adaptive shift programming, adjusting shift points based on driving style. Compared to the standard Carrera’s 3.6-liter engine, the 3.8-liter offered a noticeable increase in both power and torque, translating to quicker acceleration and improved passing performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Carrera 4S Tiptronic S delivers a refined and capable driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the manual transmission variants, the Tiptronic S provides smooth and relatively quick gear changes. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather, making it a more confidence-inspiring option for drivers in regions with challenging road conditions. The automatic transmission does slightly diminish the sense of direct connection to the engine compared to a manual, and acceleration figures are typically a tenth or two of a second slower. However, the convenience of the automatic is a significant draw for many drivers. The gear ratios are tuned for a balance between acceleration and fuel efficiency, with a focus on providing usable power throughout the rev range.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera 4S Tiptronic S came standard with a generous array of features, including leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a Bose sound system, and bi-xenon headlights. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. Popular options included sport seats, a navigation system, a sunroof, and various interior trim packages. The 4S designation also included wider rear track and larger wheels compared to the standard Carrera, contributing to improved handling and a more aggressive stance. Interior trim options ranged from standard leather to more exclusive materials like carbon fiber and Alcantara.
Chassis & Braking
The 997 chassis represents a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering increased rigidity and improved handling characteristics. The Carrera 4S features Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard, allowing drivers to adjust the damper settings for a more comfortable or sportier ride. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability. The 4S models also benefit from a wider rear track, contributing to increased stability during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 997 Carrera 4S Tiptronic S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, comfort, and all-weather capability. Compared to the standard Carrera, the 4S offered a noticeable performance advantage, while the Tiptronic S transmission provided a more relaxed driving experience. Compared to the Carrera 4S with a manual transmission, the Tiptronic S was often seen as a compromise, sacrificing some driver engagement for convenience. Fuel economy was typical for a high-performance sports car of its era, with combined figures around 19.8 US mpg. Reliability has generally been good, although preventative maintenance is crucial, particularly regarding the intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing, a known potential failure point in some early 997 models.
Legacy
The 997 Carrera 4S Tiptronic S remains a desirable Porsche model in the used car market. Its combination of performance, all-wheel drive, and automatic transmission makes it a versatile and enjoyable sports car. While the IMS bearing issue requires attention, well-maintained examples are generally reliable. The 997 generation is widely regarded as a sweet spot in the 911 lineage, offering a classic Porsche experience with modern technology and improved build quality. The car continues to be appreciated by enthusiasts for its timeless design and engaging driving dynamics.
