The dynamic capabilities of the new 911 Turbo models combined with the driving pleasure offered by an open-top sports car: this is the compelling formula behind two new flagship 911 Cabriolet models, the Turbo and Turbo S. Some 50 years after the 911 first appeared and to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the 911 Turbo, Cabriolet versions of this iconic model are making their global debut. The pair will be unveiled to the public for the first time at the Auto Show in Los Angeles on 20 November.
The 911 Turbo Cabriolet and 911 Turbo S Cabriolet deliver the same blend of dynamism, performance and efficiency offered by the Coupé model unveiled just a few months ago. The turbocharged 3.8-litre six-cylinder engine delivers 520 hp (383 kW) in the open-top 911 Turbo and 560 hp (412 kW) in the S model. The cars accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.5 and 3.2 seconds respectively, reaching a top speed of up to 197 mph. And all this while achieving fuel consumption figures not typically associated with such high performance: both new models return 28.5 mpg on the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), with CO2 emissions of 231 g/km. When compared against their respective predecessors, the new cars deliver 30 hp more power and are 0.2 seconds faster in terms of 0 to 62 mph acceleration. They are also up to 15% more efficient.
Active rear-axle steering and active aerodynamics for even greater dynamism on the road
The driving dynamics offered by the two new top-of-the-range Cabriolet models is something that cannot be expressed in simple figures. Boasting PDK dual-clutch transmission as standard and the new PTM all-wheel drive, as well as featuring rear-axle steering and active aerodynamics, the open-top 911 Turbo models are now also establishing leading Porsche technology in the open-top super sports car segment. While the rear-axle steering has an immensely beneficial impact on handling for the two new models – both on the racetrack and during everyday use – the active aerodynamics can be tuned to offer optimum efficiency or driving dynamics at the touch of a button, depending on the driver’s wishes.
More than ever before, both of these new top-of-the-range models also make a clear visual statement about their performance. The characteristic, widely flared rear wings of the new 911 Turbo generation are 28 mm wider than those of the 911 Carrera 4 models – a virtually level surface of just over a hand’s width extends out from the C-pillar to the outer edge of the vehicle. The impressive effect of this width is accentuated still further when the top is down.
Another eye-catching feature of the 911 Turbo Cabriolet is the exclusive Porsche panel bow top with its lightweight magnesium frame. This innovative technology enables the Coupé-like arch to the roof to be achieved when the top is closed. This arch, which also offers advantages in terms of aerodynamics, is not possible using conventional construction techniques. As with predecessor models, the roof opens and closes in around 13 seconds, at speeds of up to 50 km/h (34 mph).
Premium materials inside
The interior of the new Cabriolet models follows that of the 911 Turbo Coupé. The S-model boasts a particularly extensive range of furnishings, with features including an exclusive interior in Black/Carrera Red and adaptive Sport Seat Plus seats with 18-way adjustment and memory. In addition, the seat backrests are leather-trimmed with double cap seams, and various elements sport a carbon look. As with the predecessor models, the Bose sound system is fitted as standard – and, for the first time, a Burmester system is also available on request. What’s more, the radar-controlled adaptive Cruise Control system, camera-based road sign and speed limit recognition function and reversing camera are also available as options.
Fitted to every 911 is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers are also able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.