Porsche 911 Carrera S Facts, figures, and a driving report

Experience the Porsche 911 Carrera S

Step into the legendary realm of the Porsche 911 Carrera S, a true icon of automotive excellence. Born in 1963 as the 901 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, this car has grown to represent Porsche’s legacy of engineering mastery.

The 911 Carrera S from the 992 series, launched in 2019, marries tradition with innovation. It houses a 6-cylinder boxer engine at the rear, a design choice that’s both iconic and exhilarating, offering a driving experience that’s uniquely Porsche.

Available in coupé, cabriolet, and Targa forms, with the option for rear or all-wheel drive, the Carrera S caters to those who seek both tradition and modern performance. It’s not just a car; it’s a piece of history that continues to race forward, both on the road and the track, where it has long celebrated its victories.

History of Porsche 911 Carrera S

Dive into the legacy of the Porsche 911 Carrera S, a vehicle that’s more than just a car—it’s a living piece of automotive history with speed woven into its very essence.

In 1963, at Frankfurt’s International Motor Show, the 911 made its debut as the 901. However, a naming dispute with Peugeot led to a quick rebrand to 911. And just like that, an icon was born.

Fast forward to today, the 911 Carrera S of the 992 generation keeps the torch burning. It was meant to follow in the footsteps of the Porsche 356 but instead carved out its own legendary path. Think of it as the rock star of sports cars, with its ancestry tracing back to the humble Volkswagen Beetle.

The 911 isn’t all about raw speed, though it has plenty. It’s about the perfect marriage of classic design and cutting-edge technology. Its rear-engine setup gives it a distinctive feel on the road, powered by a 6-cylinder boxer engine that sings a symphony of performance.

From its beginnings, the Carrera S has morphed into various forms: the sleek coupé, the open-air cabriolet, or the unique Targa, not to mention the thrilling Speedster, reminiscent of the 356’s adventurism.

On the racetrack, this car has made its mark, from the victory-laden 934 and 935 models to its continued dominance in one-make series like the Carrera Cup. It’s not just about speed; it’s about heritage, about racing in your blood.

The Carrera S today is about precision as much as it is about power. It’s crafted with the precision of a Swiss watch, where every drive feels like an ode to engineering excellence. Yet, it remains true to its roots, offering drivers an experience that transcends mere travel.

In essence, the Porsche 911 Carrera S is your ticket to a journey through time, a celebration of what happens when engineering meets passion. It’s for those who see driving as an art form, where every road is an adventure, every mile a memory.

front view form Porsche 911 Carrera S in Stuttgart

site view form Porsche 911 Carrera S in Stuttgart

top view form Porsche 911 Carrera S in Stuttgart

Carrera Design Details

Exterior Design

Just one look at the Porsche 911 Carrera S, and you know it’s a Porsche through and through. It’s got that timeless look with round headlights and a body shape that screams tradition. Sure, it doesn’t reinvent the wheel with every new model, but that’s what fans love about it. Porsche sticks to what it knows best, creating cars that are instantly recognizable and cherished by those who’ve always adored the brand. It’s like meeting an old friend who never gets old.

Interior Design

Step into the Porsche 911 Carrera S, and you’re greeted with an interior that’s as modern as tomorrow. Digital gauges sit right behind the steering wheel, while a massive central display takes center stage, offering all the tech you need at your fingertips. The craftsmanship is top-notch, with every material chosen for quality. It’s not just about looking good; this car is designed for comfort on long drives, with seats that hug you during spirited drives yet pamper you with electric adjustments for ease. Sure, the view out might be a bit restricted, but with a rear-view camera and sensors, you’ll never miss a beat or bump into anything unexpectedly.

Technical Details Of Porsche 911 Carrera S

Engine of Porsche 911 Carrera S

Type: 3.0-liter Flat-Six Twin-Turbocharged
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Displacement: 2,981 cc
Power: 443 hp at 6,500 rpm
Torque: 530 Nm at 2,300–5,000 rpm
Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive (RWD); optional all-wheel drive (AWD) in the 4S variant
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch PDK automatic (optional 7-speed manual available)
Emissions Standard: Meets current emission standards

Body of Porsche 911 Carrera S

Vehicle Type: Coupe (Cabriolet version also available)
Seats: 4 people (2+2 configuration)
Dimensions:
- Length: 4,519 mm
- Width: 1,852 mm
- Height: 1,299 mm
Wheelbase: 2,450 mm
Track Width: Wider at the rear for enhanced stability
Ground Clearance: Approximately 108 mm (typical for sportscars)

Performance of Porsche 911 Carrera S

Top Speed: 308 km/h (191 mph)
Acceleration 0 to 100 km/h: 3.5 seconds (with Sport Chrono Package)
Acceleration 0 to 200 km/h: Approximately 12.1 seconds
Braking Distance: Not officially stated but equipped with high-performance Brembo brakes and optional Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB)

Front View of Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS in Berlin

Back View of Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS in Berlin

Reviews of the Porsche 911 Carrera S

Here are some synthesized highlights based on general insights from various discussions and reviews of the Porsche 911 Carrera S.

The Top Gear review of the Porsche 911 Carrera S highlights its impressive leap forward with a new twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine, delivering 420 horsepower. It’s praised for its powerful mid-range performance and improved efficiency, though it slightly changes the classic high-revving feel. Despite this, the Carrera S remains a perfect blend of thrilling performance and everyday usability, staying true to the 911 legacy.

To the test Report->

Motor Trend’s review of the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera S praises its perfect mix of classic Porsche style and modern upgrades. With a 443-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine, it delivers thrilling speed and precision. The 911 Carrera S stays true to its roots while offering an even better, more exciting driving experience.

To the test Report->

Car and Driver highlights the Porsche 911 Carrera S as the perfect mix of power and everyday usability. With its 473-hp twin-turbo flat-six engine and precise handling, it’s both thrilling on the track and comfortable for daily drives. Timeless design and modern tech make it a standout sports car that’s hard to beat.

To the test Report->

Competitors of Porsche 911 Carrera S

Audi R8

Hop into the Audi R8, and you’re not just driving; you’re commanding a sleek, muscular beast with a 5.2L V10 engine that’s got 612 horsepower under your right foot. It’s like the car is part of you, responding with agility and poise, thanks to its Quattro all-wheel drive keeping you glued to the road. Inside, it’s all about premium leather and tech that feels intuitive, making every trip, whether to the grocery store or the racetrack, feel like a special occasion. The R8 doesn’t just drive; it performs, turning heads and quickening pulses, where every turn and straight is a testament to its supercar pedigree.

Aston Martin Vantage

Slide into the Aston Martin Vantage, and you’ve got yourself a sports car with a soul. It’s powered by a feisty 4.0L V8 that’ll pin you back with 503 hp, ready to dance on the tarmac or just enjoy the view. With its sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and adaptive suspension, this beauty handles like it’s on rails yet rides smooth as silk. Inside, you’re cocooned in luxury, where craftsmanship meets comfort, and the tech is there to enhance your journey without overwhelming it. Whether you’re carving up the countryside or just soaking in the scenery, the Vantage makes every drive feel like a special occasion.

Porsche 718 Cayman

Slip into the Porsche 718 Cayman, and you’re instantly in a world where fun and finesse shake hands. Its compact mid-engine layout means it’s nimble as a cat, with power coming from a spirited 4-cylinder turbo that’s just wild enough to keep things interesting. Inside, it’s like wearing your favorite pair of jeans – comfy yet stylish, with controls that feel like they were made just for you. Whether you’re carving up backroads or just enjoying a sunny day drive, the 718 Cayman turns the mundane into the memorable.

Front view from Audi R8 V10 Performance in Köln

Rent an Aston Martin Vantage S in Frankfurt

How can you drive the Porsche 911 Carrera S?

Option 1: Purchase a Porsche 911 Carrera S

If your budget allows, you can own a Porsche 911 Carrera S by purchasing it directly from a dealership. This gives you the flexibility to drive it anytime and customize it to fit your style. With a starting price of around $124,000, the 911 Carrera S offers an iconic blend of timeless design, thrilling performance, and everyday practicality—making it a perfect choice for sports car enthusiasts.

Option 2: Porsche 911 Carrera S Test Drive

Another great option is to schedule a test drive of the Porsche 911 Carrera S at your nearest Porsche dealership. It’s an affordable way to experience the perfect blend of performance and luxury that this iconic sports car offers. Many dealerships have demo models ready for you to test, giving you a chance to feel the power of its turbocharged engine and the precision of its handling. It’s the perfect way to see if the 911 Carrera S is your dream car—no pressure to commit, just an unforgettable driving experience.

Option 3: Rent a Porsche 911 Carrera S through DRIVAR

If buying a Porsche 911 Carrera S or arranging a test drive isn’t on your radar right now, you can still experience its legendary performance by renting one through DRIVAR. This way, you get to feel the thrill of its powerful engine and enjoy its sleek design without the long-term commitment of ownership. Whether it’s for a weekend adventure, a special occasion, or just to indulge in the joy of driving an iconic sports car, renting a 911 Carrera S is an easy and exciting way to make it happen.