If you're looking for the most affordable way into a Porsche 911, odds are you're landing in cabriolet territory. Across online listings, convertible variants often undercut their coupe counterparts—despite being cleaner, lower-mileage examples. Enthusiasts have historically avoided them due to concerns about rigidity and performance compromises. That perception was especially true in the air-cooled era, where convertibles could lose over half their value compared to hardtops.
But times have changed. Today’s engineering advancements have narrowed the performance gap, and Porsche’s latest drop-top—the 2025 911 Carrera T Cabriolet—proves that a convertible can be both a visceral driver’s car and a rewarding ownership experience.
The Carrera T Cabriolet is an interesting paradox: a lightweight convertible, built for purists. It’s the only 911 cabriolet without a GT badge that you can buy with a manual transmission—PDK isn't even an option. Porsche made this choice deliberately, knowing that nearly a third of 911 buyers in the U.S. choose a cabriolet or targa. For this enthusiast-focused trim, that matters. In the previous generation, 70% of T buyers opted for the manual. That’s no coincidence.
This open-top T is powered by the base 911’s 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six, good for 388 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. But thanks to a unique tune and lightweight components—like reduced sound insulation and thinner glass—it’s the lightest convertible in the lineup. Standard upgrades like Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), a lowered ride height, and sportier anti-roll bars make it more dynamic than expected for a cabriolet.
Behind the wheel, the Carrera T Cabriolet is deeply engaging. The six-speed manual (a revised version of the older seven-speed) borrows components from the GT3, with tighter throws and improved feel. Shifts are crisp, the clutch is communicative, and the walnut-and-metal shifter is a welcome tactile touch.
On winding roads, it’s everything you want a weekend sports car to be. Adaptive dampers balance body control and comfort perfectly—even in Sport Plus mode, it remains composed without being jarring. Its wider tires and Porsche Torque Vectoring provide exceptional grip, and the electric steering is among the best in the business.
Sure, 0–60 in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 182 mph might not dazzle in the age of sub-3-second EVs. But that’s not the point. This car’s charm is in its analog feel, precise feedback, and top-down thrill. It makes even a simple drive feel like an event.
Finished in Lugano Blue with Vanadium Grey accents and exclusive Carrera S wheels, the T Cabriolet turns heads. Subtle 992.2 styling updates include a reshaped rear light bar and more aggressive front fascia. Inside, it’s equally refined: satin blue trim, Sport Seats Plus, and the GT Sport steering wheel come standard. Porsche’s updated digital instrument cluster replaces the older five-gauge setup, but still offers intuitive customization without losing charm.
Even with its minimalist approach, the T Cabriolet doesn’t skimp on refinement. Roof up, cabin noise is impressively low—thanks to clever engineering rather than sound insulation. It’s comfortable, composed, and surprisingly serene.
Here’s where it gets tricky. The 911 Carrera T Coupe starts at $135,995, while the Cabriolet asks $149,295. The example tested here—optioned with over $22,000 in extras—rings in at a staggering $171,665. For that price, you’re in spitting distance of a GTS or even a lightly used Turbo.
It begs the question: is the T Cabriolet worth it? From a performance-per-dollar standpoint, maybe not. But if you're an enthusiast who wants the wind in your hair, three pedals underfoot, and all the soul of a proper 911, there may be no better convertible on sale today.
Advertise your luxury cars, lifestyle goods, yachts and more with duPont REGISTRY for unmatched reach to a highly qualified audience of wealthy, luxury-loving enthusiasts of high-end automotive vehicles. As a brand name synonymous with exotic and luxury cars, duPont REGISTRY reaches a dedicated niche audience of true aficionados who will go to any length to purchase and cherish the ultimate driving machines. For more information on how to advertise with duPont REGISTRY, fill out the form below.