Just when you think the run of special edition Porsche 911 models has come to an end, along comes yet another model with new lettering and an assortment of upgrades to keep Porsche aficionados smiling. The latest is the Carrera 4 edition of the recently revealed GTS trim, which for the 2012 model year will come in either Coupe or Cabriolet bodystyles, standard all-wheel drive and the choice of a six-speed manual transmission or optional seven-speed PDK dual clutch unit.
As mentioned, the latest 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS is essentially the ‘Carrera 4’ all-wheel drive version of last year’s 911 Carrera GTS. It gets the same 408 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque 3.8-liter flat-six engine, as well as a throaty sounding sports exhaust system and Porsche Traction Management stability control.
The end result is a 0-62 mph time of just 4.6 seconds in the Coupe when fitted with the manual transmission, and 4.8 seconds for the Cabriolet. Of course, adding the PDK will shave an additional 0.2 seconds respectively off the acceleration times.
In terms of handling, the standard all-wheel drive should manage to keep you on the road, even when nearing the car’s--and your own--limits. Here, the PTM system can send the optimal torque levels to the front wheels via a multiple-plate clutch in order to help prevent the wheels from slipping. Also helping things is a standard limited-slip differential.
2012 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS
In addition to the type name on the doors and rear lid, the distinguishing characteristic of all models with all-wheel drive is the additional reflective stripe between the taillights.
What the Carrera GTS models, both the regular version and the 4, have in common is the 911’s wide body, otherwise reserved for the all-wheel version of the 911s, and the rear axle track width that goes with it.
Other details include 19-inch RS Spyder wheels in black, a Sport-Design front bumper and lip spoiler, custom side skirts, Alcantara trim, and sporty bucket seats.
Look out for the new 2012 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 GTS in showrooms this fall, priced at $110,200 for the Coupe and $120,100 for the Cabriolet.
