Worth their weight in gold: Porsche unveils the 911 Turbo and Turbo S Cabriolets

By Nick Jaynes September 23, 2013

quite nearly worth their weight in gold porsche unveils the 911 turbo and s cabriolets cabrio 2 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Many motoring enthusiasts argue that once the roof comes off a car, it’s all a wash. If you want a convertible, get an MX-5 because wind in your hair is wind in your hair. Why pay $120,000 more than you need to for the same experience?

While this might be fine for some, the Germans know better. That’s why they’ve chopped the top off both of the 911 Turbo variants, creating the 911 Turbo Cabriolet and 911 Turbo S Cabriolet.

Capable of 0-60 mph in 3.3 and 3.1 seconds respectively, the Turbo and Turbo S Cabriolets are deliver 30 more horsepower and are 0.2 seconds faster than the previous iterations. Impressively, the 911 Turbo Cabriolet and 911 Turbo S Cabriolet are rated by the EPA to achieve 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.

Standard with the PDK dual-clutch transmission (a dual-clutch automatic) and the new PTM all-wheel drive system, the all-new Cabriolets also feature rear-axle steering immensely improved handling, both on the racetrack and during everyday use. Or at least, that’s what Porsche says.

Porsche designers worked to ensure the coupe-like visual characteristics with the new lightweight magnesium retractable roof frame. We think they’ve succeeded.

On the 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, Porsche offers Black/Carrera Red and adaptive Sport Seats Plus with 18-way adjustment and memory. A Bose sound system is fitted as standard on both models while radar-controlled adaptive Cruise Control system, camera-based road sign and speed limit recognition function, and reverse camera are optional.

Carrying $160,700 and $193,900 respective base prices, it’s clear that even the motoring elite have to pay to play.

Porsche will officially unveil the twin drop-top turbos at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. So check back then for exclusive photos of the duo. And, perhaps, a first-drive report shortly following.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Nick Jaynes is the Automotive Editor for Digital Trends. He developed a passion for writing about cars working his way…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?

The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.