07-06-2005
The 911 type Carrera 4 and Carrera 4S all-wheel-drive coupes are a further addition to the 911 model family and perpetuate a long and successful tradition. Porsche's legendary 959 model and the first Carrera 4, which dates from 1988, were early evidence of this manufacturer's competence in all-wheel-drive technology.
Powered by the proven 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine, which has an output of 325 hp (SAE), the Carrera 4 accelerates from 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h)in 4.6 seconds and has a top track speed of 174 mph (280 km/h). The Carrera 4S is equipped with a larger 3.8-liter engine that develops 355 hp (SAE) and accelerates the car from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.6 seconds and to a top track speed of 179 mph (288 km/h).
A striking feature of these new 911 models: they are 1¾ inches (44 mm) wider over the rear fenders. The rear wheels of the Carrera 4 can therefore be fitted with 295/35 ZR 18 tires, and the Carrera 4S with 305/30 ZR 19 tires.
The all-wheel drive system has a multi-disk viscous coupling and transfers between five and 40 percent of the tractive force permanently to the front wheels, giving the two new coupes excellently balanced performance on bends until close to the handling limit, absolute straight-line stability up to top speed and improved traction on slippery roads.
Porsche Stability Management (PSM) now has two new functions: the brake system is pre-filled ready for a full brake application, thus eliminating the air gap between the pads and the disk and making stopping distances even shorter.
The second new PSM function is activated if the driver depresses the brake pedal quickly but not forcefully. In this situation, the hydraulic pump builds up extra pressure to bring all the wheels into the ABS range and ensure optimal braking.
In its regular setting, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) offers a sporty but comfortable basic shock absorber setup, but operation of the sport button activates a noticeably firmer mapped setting. In both settings, however, the suspension ratings are matched at all times to the driving style and road conditions. The active shock absorber system is a standard feature on the 911 Carrera 4S and an optional extra on the Carrera 4. On request, both models can also be fitted with sports suspension to lower the body 0.8 inches (20 mm) closer to the ground; this option includes a mechanical rear axle differential lock.
The optional Sport Chrono Plus package is also available for the new all-wheel-drive models. It modifies the engine management characteristics and the control behavior of the PSM and PASM systems.
quickly but not forcefully. In this situation, the hydraulic pump builds up extra pressure to bring all the wheels into the ABS range and ensure optimal braking.
In its regular setting, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) offers a sporty but comfortable basic shock absorber setup, but operation of the sport button activates a noticeably firmer mapped setting. In both settings, however, the suspension ratings are matched at all times to the driving style and road conditions. The active shock absorber system is a standard feature on the 911 Carrera 4S and an optional extra on the Carrera 4. On request, both models can also be fitted with sports suspension to lower the body 0.8 inches (20 mm) closer to the ground; this option includes a mechanical rear axle differential lock.
The optional Sport Chrono Plus package is also available for the new all-wheel-drive models. It modifies the engine management characteristics and the control behavior of the PSM and PASM systems.
Text and photos courtesy of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG
