2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet

What’s new for 2021?

The 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet significantly updates the iconic convertible sports car. The most notable change is the new twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter twin-turbo boxer-six engine, producing 572 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. This powerplant is paired with a new eight-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission. Chassis improvements include optional rear-axle steering with a six percent increased steering ratio and a new PASM Sport Suspension to lower the ride height by 10 mm.

This luxury performance convertible also gets new exterior styling. Its fascia gains bolder styling with new PDLS+ LED headlamps and a new bumper with wider intakes. The front track increased by 1.65 inches and the rear by 0.39 inches. Improvements like adaptive aerodynamics with a larger active front spoiler and an increased-size active rear spoiler are new.

Inside, the 911 Turbo Cabriolet receives a 10.9-inch touchscreen with an updated Porsche Communication Management (PCM) interface and a GT Sport steering wheel with an integrated mode switch.

The Turbo Cabriolet brings more power and speed for 2021

Even though it shares the new 3.8-liter twin-turbo boxer-six with the pricier Turbo S, Porsche tuned the guise in this trim to make 572 horses and 553 pound-feet. That’s 32 horsepower and 67 pound-feet more compared to the 2019 model. Power is routed to four wheels via a new eight-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission, which replaces the seven-speed automatic from the 991 generation.

Thanks to the swifter eight-speed gearbox and the increased power, this convertible takes just 2.8 seconds to rocket from 0-60 mph and 10.9 seconds for a quarter-mile. Compared to the 2019 model, the new one is 0.2 seconds faster on 0-60 and quarter-mile fronts. Top speed increases by a mile-per-hour to 199 mph. The Coupe variant is 0.1 seconds faster on both fronts as it’s 155 pounds lighter than the convertible model.

While the increased power and slicker performance renders an exhilarating drive, it compromises the economy section. The new engine achieves only 15 mpg (city) and 20 mpg (highway). A 17.6-gallon tank provides 352 miles of highway range. In contrast, the outgoing model returns 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, 4.0 mpg more than the newer model. It also plants a 17.9-gallon tank to provide 429.6 miles of highway range.

While its power and performance remain truly impressive, the Turbo Cabriolet isn’t the cheapest and most powerful in this sector. The AMG SL 63 Roadster, for instance, costs $178,100 and employs a 577-horsepower 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, while the BMW M8 Competition Convertible is much cheaper at $139,500 and features a 617-horsepower 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8. Besides, rivals offer slightly better economy and have larger tanks.

Exterior enhancements keep the design fresh without affecting the timelessness

Porsche adorned the 992 Turbo Cabriolet with fresh duds for its 2021 model year. Its exterior silhouette looks more modern but retains the iconic 911 silhouette, blending classic proportions with modern, aggressive styling cues. Compared to the previous generation, its body is 1.8 inches wider at the front fenders and 0.78 inches at the rear. This gives the car a muscular, planted stance expected from performance cars. However, hardcore 911 fans may dislike the broader body as it may compromise the overall sleekness of the design.

At the front, the 992 looks more formidable. Its fascia sports the iconic circular headlamps, but the hood features sharper edges. You get a new bumper underneath, with wider intakes to optimize cooling and aerodynamics. New controlled cooling air flaps at the front and a larger active front spoiler further help improve overall performance. This trim comes standard with newly designed PDLS+ headlights, but buyers can equip Matrix PDLS+ headlamps for $2,000.

The rear end looks more menacing with the increased width and the larger active rear spoiler, which optimizes airflow and downforce. Redesigned air intakes on the rear side panels now channel more air to improve overall aerodynamics and cooling. The charge air coolers are positioned directly in the air stream under the rear decklid, emphasizing the car’s performance-oriented design. Its LED taillamps look more aggressive and complement the bulgy rear end to mediate a sophisticated look. Exclusive Design Taillamps are available for $990 if you want a unique touch.

20-inch front and 21-inch rear Turbo wheels are standard, but you can choose among various other wheels for customization. Exterior colors are divided into five groups. The standard color set (white, black, and Guards Red) and Metallic Color set (Jet Black, GT Silver, and Gentian Blue) are no-cost upgrades. If you want to add a bespoke touch, the Special Color lineup (Ice Grey, Carmine Red, Artic Grey, and Chalk) costs $3,260. Buyers can also use the Paint to Sample schemes ($14,750 or $37,180) to select among a heap of color options. Besides, there are various decals, badges, and five roof options for buyers to unleash their creativity.

A driver-focused cabin to treat purists with an unmatchable experience

In a world where luxury marques are fitting modern technology and minimalistic layouts to their cabins, Porsche is still clinging with a timeless design to maintain its heritage. Its dashboard is all about functionality, dominated by a clean, horizontal design featuring buttons and rotary controllers to provide easier functionality. Light silver inlays are standard, but you get Paldao wood, carbon fiber, or brushed aluminum inlays for a sportier look.

The driver gets a new GT Sport Steering wheel covered in leatherette. Its thickness is sufficient for good grip, and the optional heating function is handy during winter. Porsche still equips the 911 with an analog instrument cluster, which isn’t bad considering Stuttgart’s heritage-saving approach. If you want a 911 with digital instrument cluster though, you have to wait until the 992.2 generation, which debuted with a 12.6-inch curved display in 2025.

A 10.9-inch touchscreen joins the dashboard with the latest PCM interface, offering superb functionality and snappy responses. One thing we expected to change is the positioning of the front console since it takes more attention to access while driving.

The interior seats four passengers as standard with jet black leather seats. However, it’s not the roomiest in the segment, as the AMG SL 63 and M8 offer more space. Head and legroom are sufficient, but taller drivers may complain about the tighter headroom with the top in place. The rear headroom and legroom are adequate for children and teens, but they are noticeably cramped for adults. You can’t delete the rear seats like you can do with the 911 Carrera GTS, which we think could’ve added more practicality.

A pair of heated, 14-way power sports seats with memory and lumbar support are standard. While they feel comfortable in longer durations, Porsche demands $840 for ventilated seats. Buyers can use simpler four-way sports seats for no additional costs, but 18-way adaptive sports seats require $1,150. No, you don’t get massage front seats or a heated rear row here, another reason we adore the AMG SL 63.

On the brighter side, Porsche offers several upholsteries. Sport-Tex upholstery is a no-cost upgrade, while Club Leather seats add $1,510. Buyers needing a warmer feeling can opt for a Heritage Design Interior, with the Classic or Pure combinations available at $11,550 and the Exclusive Manufaktur leather interior costing $11,100.

The new 10.9-inch touchscreen, while gaining an updated PCM interface, doesn’t bring Android Auto into the picture. You get Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. A Bose 12-speaker premium audio system is standard, but audiophiles who don’t mind spending extra cash can go for a Burmester 13-speaker High-End Surround audio set for $3,970.

Practicality is another major weakness of the 911, as it offers only 4.5 cubic feet of storage space at the front. If you fold the rear seats, the space increases to 5.75 cubic feet, offering a total space of 10.25 cubic feet. The M8 Convertible is more practical, with up to 12.4 cubic feet.

Noteworthy interior features

• Heated 18-way adaptive sports seats

• Sport-Tex leather seats

• 10.9-inch touchscreen with voice assist

• Bose 12-speaker premium audio system

• Leather-trimmed GT Sport steering wheel

• Dual-zone AC with carbon air filter

Important options

• Club leather seats - $1,090

• Ventilated seats - $840

• Extended Exclusive Manufaktur Leather Interior - $2,930 to $3,850

• Exclusive Manufaktur Heritage Design Package - $11,550

• Exclusive Manufaktur Leather Interior - $11,100

• Deviated interior stitching - $3,650 to $4,480

• Burmester 13-speaker High-End Surround audio - $3,970

• Ionizer - $350

• Ambient Lighting - $580

Revised underpinnings, updated steering column and brakes for improved handling

While lower on power and costlier than competitors, Porsche proves its might ahead of its rivals in the handling section. The new 911 Turbo S Cabriolet is only available with an all-wheel-drive system complimented by an updated version of its Porsche Traction Management system. The updated PTM feature can send more torque to the front wheels to improve handling, especially on tracks when the driver is performing sharp maneuvers.

Porsche retuned its chassis and steering column to increase the agility and cornering performance. Its wider track width (1.65 inches front and 0.39 inches at the rear) provides improved stability and cornering grip. The revised EPS electric power steering rack feels pin-point, light and offers a turning diameter of 35.8 feet. However, it doesn’t provide feedback, which makes us yearn for a mechanical steering rack that can connect better with drivers.

On the track, this convertible pampers enthusiasts with sharp handling. The standard Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) does a good job of maintaining stability and reducing body roll coming from sharp turns. Buyers requiring more high-speed stability can opt for the available PASM Sport Suspension, which lowers the ride height by 10 mm to maintain a more poised character when drivers push its performance.

Features like the optional Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) with active anti-roll stabilization keep the car flat through corners, allowing for mind-bending speeds. On the other hand, the optional rear-axle steering offers increased steering ratios to reduce the turning radius at lower speeds, help navigate city traffic better, and improve stability at high speeds. Both suspension types come with performance tunings, and irrespective of the type you choose, the ride quality is firmer than expected for a luxury car. That’s one reason the M8 shines here with its smoother ride quality.

Porsche equips this 572-horsepower machine with a 16.06-inch front (1.1 inches larger than before) and 15-inch rear rotors. The front discs are installed with six-piston calipers, whereas the rear wheels have four-piston calipers. The standard brakes provide strong deceleration during daily drives and on tracks.

Buyers looking for a racing-focused setup can opt for new Porsche Carbon Ceramic Brakes at $9,650. They equip the front wheel with 16.5-inch vented rotors and massive 10-piston calipers, while the rear wheels get 15.3-inch vented rotors with four-piston units. These brakes are more responsive and offer aggressive braking performance, taking less than 100 feet to halt the car from sixty.

How safe is the 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet?

Despite costing over $180,000, the Turbo Cabriolet only brings front/rear park assist with a reverse camera, cruise control, warn and brake assist. Advanced features like Night Vision Assist, Lane Change Assist, and Porsche InnoDrive require extra money. Rivals include these features as a part of standard features and preserve more modern features as options.

Options

• Night Vision Assist - $2,540

• Lane Change Assist - $1,060

• Lane Keep Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition - $1,220

• ParkAssist (Front and Rear) with Surround View - $1,430

• Adaptive Cruise Control - $2,000

• Porsche InnoDrive with Adaptive Cruise Control and Active Lane Keep - $3,020

Reliability and warranty

Reliability

Reliability ratings for the Turbo Cabriolet variant aren’t available. Since the 2021 Porsche 911 gains 84 out of 100 from J.D. Power in overall, the Turbo S should have the same. Its Quality and Reliability front gets an 80/100 rating, and fronts like Driving Experience, Resale, and Dealership Experience maintain a score above 80 out of 100.

On the other hand, Repair Pal gives 911 a score of 2.0 out of 5.0 and states that the average annual repair cost is $1,072.

J.D. Power rating highlights

• 84/100 in overall

• 80/100 in Quality & Reliability

• 89/100 in Driving Experience

• 82/100 in Resale

• 87/100 in Dealership Experience

Warranty

Porsche packs this car with a four-year or 50,000-mile basic powertrain warranty. It includes a one-year or 10,000-mile complimentary maintenance. BMW and Mercedes-AMG do the same with the M8 and SL 63, respectively. However, BMW offers a three-year or 36,000-mile complimentary maintenance with its car.

Warranty highlights

• 4 years or 50,000 miles basic warranty

• 4 years or 50,000 miles powertrain warranty

• 4 years or 50,00 miles of roadside assistance

• 12 years or unlimited miles perforation and corrosion warranty

• 1 year or 10,000 miles of complimentary maintenance

How does it compare against rivals?

2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 63

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 is one of the best alternatives to the Turbo Cabriolet. It starts at $178,100, cheaper than the Porsche at $5,500. The SL 63 is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 577 horsepower, slightly more than the 911 Turbo’s 572 horses. However, Porsche’s lighter weight gives it a slight edge in acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 2.8 seconds compared to the SL 63’s 3.5 seconds.

Both cars take a sporty approach, but the SL 63 incorporates sharper styling, while Porsche clings to a heritage-themed design. The AMG features a long hood and short deck design, while the former maintains its iconic rear-engine profile.

Both have luxurious interiors, but the SL 63 features a futuristic design complimented by a digital instrument cluster and a center tablet touchscreen. It also comes with heated, ventilated, and massage front sports seats, which the Porsche doesn’t offer. Features like fingerprint sensor, wireless phone pairing, and modern safety features are unavailable in the Porsche.

2022 BMW M8 Competition Convertible

The M8 Convertible starts at $139,500, $44,100 cheaper than the Porsche and the most affordable in this comparison. It’s powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 unit, putting in 617 horses and 553 pound-feet, making it the brawniest in the lot. However, it is heavier than the 911, takes 3.1 seconds to deliver 0-60 mph, and maxes at 189 mph. This makes it slower than the Turbo Cabriolet. However, it is more economical and includes a larger tank to provide a wider fuel range. However, it can’t match the maneuverability and racing credentials of the 911.

Exterior-wise, the M8 is more aggressive and muscular compared to the 911’s classic silhouette. Its larger dimensions give it a more imposing road presence, while its rival is more compact and agile.

Inside, the M8 offers a more spacious cabin focusing on luxury. There is a digital instrument cluster and a similar-sized screen with wireless phone pairing and modern infotainment goodies. BMW also offers three years of free maintenance and a larger cargo trunk which helps it stand tall in front of Porsche.

Conclusion: Better to buy the 911 Turbo Cabriolet over the costlier S

The 2021 911 Turbo Cabriolet is a formidable contender in the high-performance convertible segment, blending blistering speed with everyday usability. It outpaces rivals like the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 and BMW M8 Competition in speed, but its competitors offer more spacious interiors and more standard features.

For those seeking a track-capable machine that doubles as a comfortable daily driver, the 911 is hard to beat. Its advanced chassis technology and all-wheel-drive system provide exceptional handling, while the luxurious interior ensures comfort on long drives. However, the high price tag and costly options might cause some buyers to pause. However, if you’re willing to spend $32,700 extra, the 640-hp Turbo S variant is the one of the best track monsters in this sector.

FAQs

How much is the 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet?

The 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet costs $183,600, slotting under the costlier Turbo S variant. Its pricing and class make it rival the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 63, BMW M8 Competition Convertible, and Lexus LC Convertible.

How does the 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet compare against the 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 and 2022 BMW M8 Convertible?

The 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet outperforms both in acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 2.8 seconds, compared to 3.5 seconds for the SL 63 and 3.1 seconds for the M8. It’s more compact and agile, focusing on driving dynamics. However, the Mercedes and BMW offer more spacious interiors, more standard features, and better safety. The 911 Turbo Cabriolet is also costlier than the SL 63 and the M8.

What are the changes in the 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet?

The 2021 model marks the arrival of the 992 generation of the 911 Turbo Cabriolet. It features a more powerful 3.8-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine, producing 572 hp. Its exterior includes a wider body, with front fenders 1.8 inches broader than before. Enhanced adaptive aerodynamics improve performance and stability. Inside, there’s a new 10.9-inch touchscreen and updated sports seats. The chassis improves with optional rear-axle steering and a new PASM Sport Suspension option.

What powers the 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet?

The 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter flat-six engine. It produces 572 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with a new eight-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. The powertrain allows for a 0-60 mph time of 2.8 seconds and a top speed of 199 mph.

What are the differences between the 2021 Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet and Turbo S Cabriolet?

The main difference is power output. The Turbo S Cabriolet provides 640 horsepower compared to the Turbo’s 572 horses, resulting in slightly quicker acceleration for the S model. The Turbo S also comes with more standard features, including ceramic composite brakes and the Sport Chrono package. Visually, they’re nearly identical, with subtle badging differences. The Turbo S starts at $216,300, seeking a higher price for these enhancements.