A strong hood has always been a highlight under the Porsche moniker. And Porsche, unlike the majority of its rivals who have consistently opted for retractable hardtops, continues to place its trust on traditional canvas tops. However, Porsche’s latest version of the 911, the Porsche Carrera S Cabriolet 911 had made some intriguing technical advances [to the hood and otherwise] that combine the DNA of the company and new-age technology to deliver a powerful drive that is synonymous with this German luxury car manufacturer.
The multilayer fabric top from the 997 model and earlier generations has been replaced by a much simpler and more effective structure. Manufactured from magnesium, the new 911’s hood is covered with canvas fabric, and is available in four different colours: black, blue, brown and red. Electrically powered, the hood is operated using a key remote or a button featured on the car’s centre console, and opens and closes in a mere 13 seconds. It remains operable while the vehicle is moving, provided the speed of 50 kmph is not crossed.
The new 911 has a wider track at the front and a lower roofline, lending the sports car a more elegant appearance. While the new Bi-Xenon headlights are a standard fit for every marque, the Porche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), with dynamic cornering lights and speed-sensitive headlight control logic, is available as an option. It also comes equipped with 20-inch wheels, which are larger than those of its predecessor, and feature enhanced rolling surfaces that not only allow for a more comfortable drive and a better performance, but also highlights the sporty attitude of the convertible.
Its interior design represents a clean break from the previous generation, featuring luxurious materials and finishes, which are available in a plethora of colours. Notable additions include the afore-mentioned centre console and its 4.6-inch screen. The seats offer four-way electric adjustment to provide more comfort to the passengers.
The new convertible’s new hood aside, what is really exceptional about this car is its superb performance. This model comes fitted with a 3.8 litre, 400-hp boxer engine and can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in 4.1 seconds, accomplishing a top speed of 301 kmph. Clients, when purchasing the car, can opt for either a 7-speed manual gearbox or a double clutch PDK. It is worth mentioning that the latter, together with the Sport Chrono Plus Package helps reduce fuel consumption, which in any case is remarkably low, dipping down to 8.9 litres per 100km [when fitted with the PDK system] and 10 litres per km [when fitted with the manual gearbox].
Starting up a 911 is always an exhilarating experience; and even more so with the top down. This “highway beast” is relatively easy to tame and can be driven quickly and effortlessly while maintaining an extremely high level of safety. Sportiness, functionality and high-quality equipment go hand in hand in this truly unique vehicle, which is priced at approximately €130,000. To sum it up, the new Porsche Carrera S Cabriolet 911 is the ideal accomplice to revel in the pleasure of a midsummer’s drive with.
Text: Javier Alonso Esquerra