The Porsche 911 Cabriolet Carrera GTS 3.8 (408 Hp) with the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission represents a high-performance iteration of the 997.2 generation 911, produced from 2010 to 2011. Positioned as the performance-focused variant within the Cabriolet range, it bridged the gap between the standard Carrera models and the more track-oriented GT3. This model benefited from the 997.2 facelift, incorporating direct fuel injection and an updated engine management system. It was designed to offer an engaging open-top driving experience without sacrificing the renowned 911 performance characteristics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Cabriolet (997, facelift 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera GTS 3.8 (408 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Cabriolet |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.5 l/100 km (15.2 US mpg, 18.2 UK mpg, 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 242 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 340 km/h (211.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.8 kg/Hp, 264.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 271.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 408 Hp @ 7300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 4200 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 4200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MA1.01S |
| Engine displacement | 3800 cm3 (231.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 28.9 l (30.54 US qt | 25.43 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1545 kg (3406.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1925 kg (4243.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 380 kg (837.76 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 105 l (3.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal) |
| Length | 4435 mm (174.61 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Height | 1300 mm (51.18 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2350 mm (92.52 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.9 m (35.76 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission PDK |
| 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 | 8.5J x 19; 11J x 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet PDK lies the MA1.01S 3.8-liter flat-six engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant, benefiting from Porsche’s direct fuel injection (DFI) technology introduced with the 997.2 facelift. DFI improves combustion efficiency and allows for a higher compression ratio, contributing to increased power output. The engine utilizes an advanced valvetrain with variable valve lift and timing (VarioCam Plus) to optimize performance across the rev range. The engine produces 408 horsepower at 7,300 rpm and 420 Nm (309.78 lb-ft) of torque at 4,200 rpm. The PDK transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission. It offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear changes via steering wheel-mounted paddles, providing a blend of convenience and driver engagement. The PDK’s quick shift times contribute significantly to the car’s acceleration performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet PDK delivers a distinctly sporty driving experience. While the Cabriolet body style adds some weight compared to the coupe, the 408 hp engine and the PDK transmission provide brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in approximately 4.4 seconds, and the car boasts a top speed of 340 km/h (211 mph). The PDK transmission’s programming is geared towards performance, with quick upshifts and downshifts. Compared to the standard Carrera Cabriolet, the GTS offers a more responsive throttle and a more aggressive engine note. Compared to the manual transmission equipped models, the PDK offers slightly quicker acceleration due to the elimination of shift interruption, but some purists prefer the greater driver involvement of a manual gearbox. The GTS also feels more potent than the base Carrera, offering a more engaging and visceral driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Carrera GTS Cabriolet came standard with a generous array of features. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, sport seats, and a three-spoke steering wheel. Standard exterior features included the wider body from the Carrera 4 models, a sport exhaust system, and 19-inch alloy wheels. Optional extras included Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), which minimizes body roll, adaptive sport seats with memory function, and a Bose surround sound system. The interior trim could be customized with various leather colors and stitching options. Navigation systems and parking assist were also popular options.
Chassis & Braking
The 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet utilizes a fully independent suspension system. The front suspension employs McPherson struts, while the rear features a multi-link setup. The GTS benefits from a slightly lowered ride height compared to the standard Carrera, improving handling and stability. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The braking system is enhanced by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Porsche Stability Management (PSM). The GTS also featured a thicker stabilizer bar compared to the base Carrera, further reducing body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet was well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its potent engine, responsive handling, and luxurious interior. Reviewers noted that the GTS offered a compelling blend of performance and comfort. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was considered reasonable for a high-performance sports car. Compared to the 911 Turbo, the GTS offered a more analog driving experience, while the Turbo prioritized outright speed and technological sophistication. Compared to the Carrera S, the GTS provided a noticeable step up in performance and exclusivity.
Legacy
The 997.2 generation 911, including the Carrera GTS Cabriolet, is generally regarded as a reliable and well-engineered sports car. The 3.8-liter engine is known for its durability, and the PDK transmission has proven to be robust. However, like all Porsches, regular maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. Today, the 997.2 GTS Cabriolet is a sought-after model in the used car market, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its combination of performance, style, and open-top driving enjoyment. Values have been steadily increasing in recent years, reflecting the model’s growing desirability and its status as a modern classic.
