New Porsche 911 Turbo and Turbo S Cabrio Officially Revealed [w/Video]

The Porsche 911 Turbo (with or without the ‘S’) is a very different beast to the purer rear-wheel driven and non-turbo models, and it appeals to a different clientele. However, chop off its top and yet another unique niche is created, as there are really true convertibles (if any?) with the kind of performance that it offers.

Now, Porsche has revealed the topless version of the new 911 Turbo and Turbo S that sacrifices some body stiffness for the sheer joy of open-top driving. Set to be revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November, the Cabrio delivers the same power outputs as the regular coupe model (513hp / 520PS or 552hp / 560PS) and almost equal acceleration times to 100 km/h (62 mph) – one tenth slower for both (3.5 and 3.2 seconds respectively). Top speed is rated at 318 km/h (199 mph) for both variants.

The manufacturer claims this new model is not only quicker and more powerful than its predecessor (which it is), but also 15 percent more efficient, using just 9.9 l/100km on the combined European cycle, which equates to 23.7 mpg US / 28.5 mpg UK.

Porsche is keen to make us note “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 feasible using conventional construction techniques.” It can be raised or lowered on the move, at speeds of up to 50 km/h / 31 mph, taking about 13 seconds.

The new models will hit the market in December of this year, and in Germany they will retail for €174,431 and €207,989 respectively, while US pricing is predictably more reasonable, at $160,700 and $193,900 for the dearer S model. However, you will want to add another $950 in destination charges to get the full price.

By Andrei Nedelea

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