By Otsile Kadiege

Porsche recently took the wraps off the updated 911 Carrera S which closes the gap between the 911 Carrera and the even more performance-oriented 911 Carrera GTS T-Hybrid. Its powertrain has been significantly upgraded and now achieves performance levels that were previously reserved for the 911 Carrera GTS of the previous generation. In addition, an extended list of standard equipment and significantly increased customisation options compared to the 911 Carrera make it an attractive new member of the Carrera model family. The sports car is available in Coupé and Cabriolet versions.

Performance

Powering the much-loved mid-engined sports cars is the iconic 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder boxer engine which has been fundamentally upgraded for use in the new Porsche 911 Carrera S. The result is a significant increase in power with a simultaneous reduction in emissions. Its output of 353 kW of power and 530 Nm of torque, represents an increase of 22 kW compared to its predecessor.

To achieve this increased performance, Porsche fitted new turbochargers and has extensively optimised the charge-air cooling, among other things. The new sports car is now based on the design of the 911 Turbo models of the previous generation. Porsche claims the Carrera S Coupé accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 308 km/h. An eight-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK) transmits the power to the wheels.

Upgarded standard equipment list

Porsche has significantly upgraded the standard equipment in the Carrera S, which includes the staggered tyre fitment with 20/21-inch Carrera S wheels, a sports exhaust system with tailpipes in silver, and Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+) – which is not available in the Carrera. The new brake system provides a significant upgrade in terms of driving dynamics. The system, familiar from the 911 Carrera GTS and supplied as standard with red brake callipers and discs measuring 408 millimetres at the front and 380 mm on the rear, ensures outstanding rates of deceleration.

Further performance-enhancing options are available. On request, Porsche offers the track-proven Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system and the PASM sports suspension, which features a 10-millimetre-lower ride height combined with rear-wheel steering. The damper hydraulics have been optimised compared to the predecessor model, providing even further improved drivability with increased precision and refined responsiveness. The steering, in combination with rear-axle steering, is more direct and the kinematics of the front axle have been adjusted. This ensures even more agile and direct handling while also significantly increasing stability at high speeds.

Pricing

911 Carrera S Coupe – R3,037,000

911 Carrera S Cabriolet – R3,304,000