Like the 2020 911 Carrera models, the new 911 Carrera 4 and 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet are powered by a twin-turbo 3.0-liter flat six engine fitted with model-specific turbochargers, developing 283 kW (385 PS; 911 Carrera 4: Fuel consumption combined 9.6 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions 218 g/km; 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet: Fuel consumption combined 9.7 l/100 km; CO₂ emissions 221 g/km) at 6,500 rpm (15 PS more than the previous 911 Carrera 4 models) and 440 Nm of torque from 1,950 to 5,000 rpm.
Fitted with the standard 8-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) transmission, the 2020 911 Carrera 4 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.2 seconds. When equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package, this time drops to 4.0 seconds. The 2020 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet accelerates to 100 km/h from standstill in just 4.4 seconds, and in 4.2 seconds flat when equipped with the optional Sport Chrono Package. Top track speed is 291 km/h for the 911 Carrera 4 and 289 km/h for the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet.
Like on the 911 Carrera 4S models, the increased performance of the 911 Carrera 4 models underwent a further development of the front axle drive. The clutch and differential unit is now water-cooled and has reinforced clutches to increase durability and load capacity. The increased actuating torques at the clutch improve the latter’s adjustment accuracy and thus the capability of the driven front axle. The enhanced front axle drive in combination with Porsche Traction Management (PTM) promote an increase in traction on snow, as well as in wet and dry conditions.
The new 911 Carrera 4 and 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet are equipped with PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management). Like on the other 2020 911 Carrera models, the electronically variable damping system comes standard and offers two selectable modes, “Normal” and “Sport”, emphasizing ride quality and handling. A fully variable, electronically controlled limited slip rear differential with Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), which is standard on the 911 Carrera S and 4S models, can be ordered as an option. The wheels on the 911 Carrera 4 and 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet feature a staggered diameter, measuring 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. They are fitted with 235/40 ZR 19 and 295/35 ZR 20 tires, respectively. Larger wheels with a staggered 20/21-inch diameter (standard on 911 Carrera 4S models) are optionally available. The standard internally ventilated and perforated grey cast-iron brake rotors on the 2020 911 Carrera 4 models measure 13.0 inches front and rear and feature black four-piston calipers. Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) can be ordered as an extra. Like on the other 2020 911 variants, Wet Mode is included as standard equipment. This function automatically detects water on the road, preconditions the stability control and anti-lock brake systems accordingly, and warns the driver. The driver can then call up vehicle settings particularly suited for wet roads at the push of a button, or by means of the mode switch on the steering wheel (when fitted with the optional Sport Chrono Package).
Visually, the 911 Carrera 4 models are characterized by the same striking design cues as the rest of the model range, such as the clearly defined fender arches and front luggage compartment lid with a recess reminiscent of classic 911 models, as well as the full-width LED light strip stretching across the rear. The only visual distinction between the standard 911 Carrera 4 and the 911 Carrera 4S derivatives are the exhaust openings in the rear fascia. To differentiate between the engine variants, the standard 911 Carrera 4 models feature one rectangular, single-tube tailpipe on each side, while the 4S models are fitted with a set of round twin-tailpipes on each side. The optional Sport Exhaust system distinguished by two oval tailpipes can be ordered for all models.
Inside, the new 911 Carrera 4 shares the interior with the previously introduced standard 911 Carrera and S models, including re-designed seats, the traditional centrally positioned tachometer, and the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with a 10.9 inch touch screen and improved connectivity. A control panel of five buttons with the look of classic toggle switches creates the transition to the center console controls.
