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Porsche 911 Carrera - What the Auto Press Says

The 911 Carrera is praised for its quick and powerful performance, as well as good daily driving comfort. Still, it's criticized for its drab-for-the-price interior.

The iconic Porsche 911 Carrera is well-suited for road-ripping sports performance, as well as running errands. "The Porsche 911 is an automotive icon and it's one of our top choices for enthusiasts who want a sports car for daily driving," says New Car Test Drive. "The 911 combines driving excitement with everyday comfort." While less expensive sports cars can easily compete with the 911 on the track, few inspire as much confidence on the road. Adding icing to the cake is the sports car's instantly recognizable profile.

This review covers the following trims: base, S, 4, 4S, Targa 4, and Targa 4S. Porsche also offers convertible body styles and these even greater performance-oriented trims: 911 Turbo, GT2 and GT3.

• "The latest generation of the venerable Porsche 911 Carrera Coupe keeps its timeless good looks and engaging performance, in a wide variety of models for well-heeled enthusiasts." -- Forbes

• "I just feel more comfortable at speed in the Porsche, which is why the argument for the less expensive Corvette or for that matter the Shelby GT500 doesn't hold water." -- Automobile.com.

911-Carrera Performance - 8.8 (Very Good)

Test drivers find the 911 Carrera is well-suited for high-performance excursions and around-the-town jaunts. With the S and 4S boasting a 0 to 60 mph time of only 4.6 seconds, the 911 Carrera leads its class in the performance category. According to Automobile.com, the 911 "rewards with absolute control all the time." In fact, critics believe the advanced braking system is the car's most impressive performance component. Read More

911-Carrera Exterior - NA

The 911 Carrera's exterior body style hasn't been updated since 2006 -- which is fine for most auto writers, who appreciate its iconic profile. "In many ways, the 911 is the automotive equivalent of a Harley Davidson motorcycle, evoking an emotional bond with owners and enthusiasts like few other vehicles can," writes Forbes. Read More

911-Carrera Interior - 6.1 (Mediocre)

The 911's low-slung front seats and fair amount of convenience features provide for straightforward comfort and simplicity -- so much so that New Car Test Drive declares, "The 911 cockpit is a place designed for serious driving." Still, its fit and finish receives mediocre reviews and its backseat isn't suitable for adults. Read More

911-Carrera Safety - NA

While the 2008 Porsche 911 has yet to be crashed tested by the federal government, it does come equipped with an impressive list of active and passive safety systems -- including Porsche Stability Management (PSM) and front/rear crumple zones. Read More

911-Carrera Reliability - 10.0 (Excellent)

The 2008 Porsche 911 Carrera reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Porsche offers a four-year/50,000-mile new car limited warranty. Read More