The Porsche 911 Cabriolet (997) Carrera S 3.8, equipped with the Tiptronic S automatic transmission, represented a compelling blend of performance and convenience within the iconic 911 lineage. Produced from 2006 to 2008, this variant occupied a mid-to-high position in the 997 generation lineup, offering a step up in power and refinement compared to the base Carrera while remaining more accessible than the track-focused Carrera 4S or the even more potent Turbo models. It was a key offering for Porsche buyers seeking an open-top sports car experience without sacrificing significant performance capabilities.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (997) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera S 3.8 (355 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 | 17.9 l/100 km (13.1 US mpg, 15.8 UK mpg, 5.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 283 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 | 285 km/h (177.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.4 kg/Hp, 229.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm, 258.9 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 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| 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 | 1545 kg (3406.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 385 kg (848.78 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 | 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.) |
| 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 | 235/35 ZR19; 295/30 ZR19 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 997 Carrera S Cabriolet Tiptronic S lies the M97.01 engine, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six (boxer) engine. This engine benefited from Porsche’s extensive experience with horizontally opposed engines, providing a low center of gravity for improved handling. The M97.01 featured a dry-sump lubrication system, crucial for maintaining oil supply during aggressive cornering. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system, optimized for both performance and efficiency. The engine produced 355 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4,600 rpm.
The Tiptronic S transmission was a five-speed automatic gearbox with a torque converter. It offered both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to select gears via steering wheel-mounted paddles or the gear selector. This transmission was designed to provide smooth and relatively quick shifts, although it wasn’t as lightning-fast as the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch transmission that would arrive in later 997 models.
Driving Characteristics
The 997 Carrera S Cabriolet Tiptronic S delivered a refined yet engaging driving experience. While the Tiptronic S transmission didn’t offer the same level of driver involvement as a manual gearbox, it provided a comfortable and convenient driving experience, particularly in urban environments. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 5.1 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 177 mph. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to balance acceleration and fuel economy. Compared to the six-speed manual version, the Tiptronic S offered slightly slower acceleration due to the inherent losses in the torque converter. However, the automatic transmission made the car more accessible to a wider range of drivers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera S Cabriolet 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 Cabriolet also featured a fully automatic electro-hydraulic fabric top, which could be raised or lowered in a matter of seconds.
Chassis & Braking
The 997 Carrera S Cabriolet utilized a robust chassis with independent suspension at all four wheels. The front suspension employed McPherson struts, while the rear featured a multi-link setup. This configuration provided excellent handling and ride comfort. The car was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control. The Cabriolet’s chassis was reinforced to compensate for the lack of a fixed roof, maintaining the 911’s renowned structural rigidity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 997 Carrera S Cabriolet Tiptronic S was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its performance, handling, and luxurious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the Tiptronic S transmission wasn’t as engaging as the manual gearbox. Compared to the base Carrera Cabriolet, the S model offered a significant performance upgrade, thanks to its larger engine and more aggressive tuning. Fuel economy was reasonable for a high-performance sports car, averaging around 20 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although regular maintenance was essential to keep the engine and transmission in optimal condition.
Legacy
The 997 Carrera S Cabriolet Tiptronic S remains a desirable Porsche model in the used car market. Its combination of performance, luxury, and open-top driving enjoyment continues to appeal to enthusiasts. The M97.01 engine is known for its durability, provided it has been properly maintained. While the Tiptronic S transmission may not be as sought-after as the manual or PDK versions, it offers a comfortable and convenient driving experience. These cars are increasingly seen as modern classics, representing a sweet spot in the 911 lineage.
