Vehicle Tested
2012 Porsche 911 Carrera S Convertible (3.8L 6-cyl. RWD w/opt. 7-speed Automated Manual)
Driven On
5/23/2012
Ratings Summary
This rating has been carried forward from a prior year because the newer model has no substantial differences.
Considered by many enthusiasts to be the less-capable version of the 911, the soft-top Carrera S Cabriolet, especially with the PDK transmission, proves its pedigree to those who doubt its abilities with true Porsche prowess. Porschephiles need not worry. This 991-gen Cabrio is far better than its predecessor.
A
Performance
The 911 Carrera S combines supercar acceleration with world-class handling and brakes, just like nearly every 911 preceding it.
| Acceleration |
B
|
With about 150 lbs more weight than the coupe but packing the same 394 hp, the latest 911 Cabriolet is only a fraction of a second slower to 60 mph. Top speed is 187 mph. |
| Braking |
A
|
Tremendously powerful and fade free brakes also have become a trademark of the Porsche 911. |
| Steering |
B
|
Those critical of the new electric-assist system are correct in that it doesn't offer the same granular feel as before, yet it remains ultra precise. |
| Handling |
A
|
Debate all you want about feel or tradition, there's no denying the pure capability of the 911. Our track tests validate its rightful place at the top of its class. |
| Driveability |
A
|
Despite its world-class capabilities, the 911 remains a very comfortable daily driver with its friction-free steering and intuitive throttle and brake calibrations. |
B
Comfort
Well-contoured seats, adaptive suspension and a sleek shape combine to give the Porsche 911 uncommon comfort as sports cars go.
| Seating Comfort |
B
|
There are several seat choices of increasing sportiness, but all are exceptionally comfortable and supportive. Same offer optional active, heated bolsters. |
| Ride Comfort |
A
|
The Carrera S's 2-mode driver-selectable ride management could provide a wider band of ride quality, but the ride is almost always agreeable. |
| Quietness |
C
|
The 911 Cabriolet is not quiet, yet wind noise is suitably hushed thanks to the push-button, pop-up wind baffle. Engine noise and road hum become tiresome. |
B
Interior
Despite larger exterior dimensions, cockpit remains an intimate space, perhaps because larger center stack and waterfall between the seats takes up any extra room. Tall drivers fit well.
| Ergonomics |
B
|
The trademark driving position is spot on. The user interface has been greatly improved with a layout and presentation based on the Panamera sedan. |
| Ingress/Egress |
B
|
With the exception of the rear jump-seats, getting in and out of the 911 is typical of any sport coupe with a low seat height. |
| Space/Room |
C
|
Actual interior volume has not changed much, but the traditional open feel of the 911 is gone because of the new center console. |
| Visibility |
B
|
Tidy dimensions, sloping front trunk and a generously sized rear window help visibility, though rear-quarter view is predictably compromised. |
| Cargo/Storage |
C
|
Luggage space up front is deep but small (4.8 cu-ft), and folded rear jump-seats mean enough area for soft luggage -- and that's it. |
| Convertible Top |
A
|
Raise/lower automatic soft top is under 15 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph. Push-button pop-up wind blocker is a plus. |
B
Value
At about $11K more than an otherwise identical 911 Carrera S hardtop, the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet offers near-identical performance but with the ability to soak in the sun. Yet there are other options on this side of the $100K barrier.
| Build Quality (vs. $) |
A
|
Even in the world of expensive sports cars, the Porsche 911's build quality is one of its standout features; better than expected even at this price. |
| Features(vs. $) |
B
|
Porsche is notorious for its very long list of options, and the price can add up very quickly. The upside is flexibility in personalization. |
| Cost |
B
|
Considering that this $100K convertible is comfortable in the company of similarly capable sports cars costing twice as much, we'd say it's a fair price. |
| MPG |
B
|
Rated by the EPA at 18 mpg city/26 mpg hwy. Can you find another 400 hp convertible that matches it? |
| Warranty |
B
|
A 4-yr/50,000-mile warranty extends to powertrain and roadside assistance. |
| Ownership |
A
|
There are few cars that express as much tradition, racing pedigree, rewarding dynamics, style and quality as the Porsche 911. |
A
Fun To Drive
It's an exceptionally rewarding machine in nearly every objective and subjective way, only just a little slicker than before.
| Driving Experience |
A
|
It's easy to be a critic. It's hard to redesign and improve a car with a 50-year run and trophies on its shelf. You'll feel every minute of history and engineering in the 911. |
| Personality |
B
|
Powerful engine, precise steering and unflappable brakes take precedence over flashy gizmos. |
