The 2004 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet stands as an icon of open-top, all-wheel-drive performance, a direct descendant of the car that pioneered the all-wheel drive supercar segment more than a decade prior. This generation, introduced in 1999, continued to set the benchmark for sportscar stability and handling, particularly when paired with the standard Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system.
300-Horsepower Boxer Core
At the heart of the 911 Carrera 4 is the 3.4-liter six-cylinder boxer engine, a marvel of lightweight design with an aluminum cylinder block and heads. This highly efficient engine produces a potent 300 horsepower at 6,800 rpm. A dual-stage resonance air intake system is key to its flexibility, boosting both power and torque in the midrange engine speeds.
The engine delivers 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque, with at least 220 lb.-ft. available across a wide band from 2,700 rpm to 7,000 rpm. This power allows the Carrera 4 to accelerate from rest to 62 miles per hour (0-100 km/h) in a swift 5.2 seconds. Further engineering ingenuity is seen in the patented LOKASIL high-silicon cylinder liners, which minimise friction and wear, allowing for extended 15,000-mile (24,000 km) oil change intervals.
All-Wheel Drive and PSM Mastery
What sets the Carrera 4 apart is its sophisticated all-wheel drive system, based on a viscous multi-plate clutch. The system adds a remarkably light 120 pounds (54 kg) to the weight of the standard 911 Carrera, making it one of the lightest systems of its kind. Unlike the previous generation, the viscous unit is located directly behind the front differential, which simplified maintenance and improved weight distribution.
This intelligent system directs torque to the front wheels anywhere from five to 40 percent, constantly varying based on available traction. It provides outstanding traction on all road surfaces, though it was primarily designed by Porsche to enhance superior handling on dry surfaces. The system’s presence also allows the option of the Tiptronic S transmission, as the all-wheel drive models now share the same transaxle as the rear-wheel drive 911 Carrera.
Complementing the drivetrain is the advanced Porsche Stability Management (PSM) system, fitted as standard. Using data from multiple sensors, PSM can instantaneously detect a loss of grip at either axle. It rapidly corrects instability by selectively applying braking to individual wheels and, if needed, altering engine power. This dynamic handling aid operates so quickly and subtly that most drivers will not feel the corrections as they occur.
Open-Air Design and Safety
The Cabriolet model perfectly blends high-performance driving with the enjoyment of open-top motoring. Its fully automatic power soft-top folds compactly into a compartment behind the rear seats, maintaining a sleek, uncluttered appearance thanks to a flush-fitting tonneau cover when lowered.
While sharing the core platform and four-wheel independent suspension with aluminum components, the Carrera 4 Cabriolet is subtly distinguished by a different wheel design and plainly visible titanium-color brake calipers. The rear engine hood proudly carries a titanium-color “Carrera 4” logotype.
Safety remains paramount. The Cabriolet features boron-steel reinforced A-pillars and a windshield header, which work in tandem with an automatic-deploying supplemental rollover structure to reduce the risk of injury in a rollover accident. Standard safety equipment includes dual front airbags and the Porsche Side Impact Protection System (SIPS) with door-mounted side airbags offering protection for the chest, head, and pelvis.
Luxury and Refinement
By 2004, the 911 Carrera 4 had fully evolved into a grand touring sportscar, equipped with numerous standard luxury features. These include automatic climate control, power windows with one-touch operation, partial leather seats, and a remote locking anti-theft system. Refinements from prior model years, such as new LED interior orientation lights and upgraded trunk carpet quality, enhance the premium driving environment.
The 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet also offers a choice between the precisely-shifting six-speed manual transmission and the advanced five-speed Tiptronic S automatic, which adapts its shift logic to the driver’s style, ensuring the Carrera 4 remains responsive and engaging in all driving scenarios.
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Source: Porsche
