In news that surprises no one, a convertible version of the all-new eighth-generation 911 is on the way. Porsche introduced the coupe last fall, and the Cabriolet follows as expected. Buyers can choose between the rear-wheel-drive Carrera S and the all-wheel-drive Carrera 4S. The Turbo Cabriolet will arrive later.
The 911 Carrera S Cabriolet carries all the improvements and features of the coupe. It adds a fabric roof, which slightly reduces structural rigidity. Magnesium supports and new hydraulics make the roof smoother and quicker to operate. It now opens in 12 seconds, compared to 13 for the old model. Drivers can raise or lower it at speeds up to 31 mph. A clever power-operated wind deflector returns, helping cut airflow and reduce cabin turbulence at high speed.
A key addition is the PASM Sport Suspension. It uses stiffer springs and sway bars and lowers the ride height by 0.39 inches. This setup was once limited to S and GTS Coupes, but now comes to the Cabriolet.
Performance remains strong. Both the Carrera S Cabriolet and the all-wheel-drive 4S use a 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six with 443 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque. The standard eight-speed PDK, revised for 2020, launches the Carrera S from zero to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Extra traction lets the 4S cut that time to 3.6 seconds.
Porsche also plans to offer a 2020 911 Cabriolet with a seven-speed manual transmission. Buyers will need to wait, as the manual arrives later. Those who want a PDK-equipped Cabriolet can order now, with deliveries scheduled for late summer. The Carrera S Cabriolet starts at $127,350. The Carrera 4S Cabriolet starts at $134,650.