Porsche 911 Carrera 4S

Costs

Running costs for the 911 are likely to be high. Fuel economy is relatively low, while insurance and running costs will be at the higher end of the scale. Servicing isn't cheap on a car like this, but as this is a thoroughbred performance car that's always going to be one of the downsides.

Space and practicality

Front seat passengers have plenty of room in all directions, and are unlikely to have any quibbles. In the rear space is more restricted, though the seats are suitable for average sized adults on short journeys. Storage space in the cabin is relatively good, although the front boot is only suitable for carrying a couple of soft bags.

Controls and display

The layout of the 911's cabin is impressive. It retains the classic five-dial set-up for the instruments, supplemented by changeable digital displays. As well as being attractive it is informative and easy to use. Some of the smaller buttons on the dashboard are quite small, but otherwise the cabin is faultless.

Comfort

The 911 does a good job of delivering respectable comfort levels. The seats are superb, firm and supportive even over long distances. Noise levels are quite restrained, the engine subsiding when on a light throttle. The ride is firm, but not uncomfortably so, only the worst potholes causing a disturbance in the cabin.

Car security

All Porsche 911 vehicles are fitted with a tracking system as standard, making it very difficult for the car to be successfully stolen. In addition it has an immobiliser and alarm as standard.

Car safety

With the added benefit of four-wheel drive, the 911 offers a high level of active and passive safety. The excellent grip and high levels of braking power make it easier to avoid an accident in the first place.

Driver appeal

The driving appeal of the 911 is the key reason for purchasing one. Although having the engine at the rear is not inherently ideal in terms of dynamics, the Porsche engineers have honed the set-up to the point where it delivers an impeccable degree of balance, grip and enjoyment. The steering, brakes, suspension, gearbox and engine combine to make every burst of acceleration, braking and turning an immense pleasure. Despite all this, it can still cruise comfortably and cope with traffic jams.

Family car appeal

The 911 is not an ideal family car, although it could carry two adults and children. Insufficient boot space would be the key issue, as is access to the rear seats.

First car appeal

The 911 is much too powerful and expensive for a first car, even in its more benign four-wheel drive form.

Quality and image

The 911's reputation is founded on high quality, and almost without exception it delivers. It feels thoroughly engineered throughout and robust, with the only demerit being the slightly flimsy nature of some of the minor switches. The 911's image is even stronger, remaining one of the most desirable sports cars ever despite strong competition, and its reputation as a superb performance car is well known.

Accessibility

For a sports car, the 911 is easy to get into. The doors are long and open wide, and although the seats are low set, it is not a long drop down into them. Access to the rear does require the seat to be slid forward, which takes a few seconds if electric seats are fitted.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

With the optional Bose stereo system fitted, the 911 boasts a superb sound system. Radio, CDs and MP3 CDs can be played, and the sound quality is of a high standard. Steering wheel controls make it easy to operate, and unlike many cars these controls are small so they do not interfere during spirited driving.

Colours and trim

The 911 is available in a range of mostly subtle colours, with brighter hues like red, yellow and white for the outgoing. Inside the cabin is understated and sombre, but can be brightened by choosing different cabin colours and materials.

Parking

Because of its unique shape, parking the 911 can be a little tricky. Visibility all round is generally good, but the sloping rear can make it difficult to judge. However, parking sensors are available as an option.

Spare wheel

Tyre inflation kit fitted as standard.