Two engines are available in the Porsche 911 Cabriolet. The entry level engine is the 3.4-litre six-cylinder engine with an output of 350bhp and a pulling power of 390Nm. It is mated to a seven-speed manual transmission or you can choose Porsche’s semi-automatic PDK transmission as an option. Performance figures for this drop-top are stunning. It will complete the 0-62mph benchmark sprint in 5.0 seconds while it has an achievable top speed of 177mph.

Use the PDK and you can cut the 0-62mph time to 4.8 seconds. Top speed is 176mph. Choose the Sport Chrono pack with the PDK ‘box and you can get the zero to 62mph sprint down to 4.6 seconds but top speed stays at 176mph. The second engine in the range is the 3.8-litre boxer engine with 400bhp and pulling power of 440Nm. This more powerful engine is startlingly rapid.

A standing start to 62mph takes you 4.7 seconds with the seven-speed manual gearbox and this version has a top speed of 187mph. Pick the optional PDK semi-auto ‘box and you’ll get the sprint time down to 4.5 seconds with an achievable top speed of 187mph. Opt for the Sport Chrono pack with the PDK ‘box and you’ll be able to complete the benchmark sprint in 4.3 seconds while you can get to an achievable top speed of 185mph.

Whether you are driving the 3.4-litre or the 3.8-litre engine, passing slower traffic is no trouble. The Carrera S, however, is phenomenal: touch the accelerator and you’ll be exposed to a mighty surge of power accompanied by a tremendous soundtrack delivered by the flat-six boxer engine. It truly is one of the most capable performance cabriolets on the market.

Thanks to the weight reduction, the longer wheelbase and the lower stance, this new version of the Porsche 911 Cabriolet is easily the best car in its sector. It drives like the coupe and there’s little flex from the magnesium-folding roof. With the roof in place you wouldn’t know that you are driving a Cabriolet. Whether on track or on twisting B roads the 911 Cabriolet is hugely rewarding.

The driver has so much scope to play: the steering rack is quick, precise and gives plenty of feedback. Purists might consider Porsche’s new electro-mechanical steering system a poor second to the previous hydraulic system but the differences are minimal. Driving the 911 at the national limit on motorways is a comfortable experience especially when using seventh gear (seventh is called an ‘Overdrive gear’ and is used to make the 911 more frugal and emit less CO2).

It is even good at low speeds when in town. The revamped suspension has increased comfort levels at low speeds while adding to its dynamic ability at high speeds. The longer wheelbase (+100mm over the previous generation) and wider track at the front of the car (+61mm) has enhanced the car when cornering. It really does feel beautifully balanced. Roof in place or top down, at speed or driving around the city, you’ll find this latest 911 Cabriolet an extremely capable performer.