The Porsche 911 is undeniably one of the most important sports cars produced in automotive history. But it wasn't offered as a convertible for most of the 911’s early history. Shortly after the car’s introduction, Porsche developed a removable Targa roof that got part of the way there, but many enthusiasts still pined for a roof that could be folded back. Although Porsche built numerous 911 Cabriolet development cars over the years, it wasn’t until late 1982 that a full-production Carrera Cabriolet was shown to the public. Offered as a 1983 model, the 911 Cabriolet was Porsche’s first full cabriolet since the 356, and even with the car’s price premium over the Targa variant, it immediately began selling well. In the first year, more than 4,200 examples were produced, and the 911 Cabriolet has been a crucial part of the brand’s lineup since.
This 1986 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet is a beautiful US market example, finished in Guards Red over a black partial leather interior. First sold at Porsche of Reading, Pennsylvania on September 10, 1986, this Carrera shows 134,930 km on the odometer and is in very nice overall condition. Sitting on a set of Fuchs wheels with black finish centers, this 911 Cabriolet has an exceptional stance and is the quintessential specification for a 911 of this era. The black canvas top is powered actuated and sits beneath a soft tonneau cover behind the rear seats.
The interior is fitted with a pair of black leather bucket seats and door cards paired with a black vinyl door topper and dashboard. The original steering wheel has been traded out for a nice feeling Momo Prototipo steering wheel, and a Blaupunkt Melbourne head unit with a cassette player is installed. This Carrera was optioned from the factory with a shortened shift lever, which offers more enjoyable shift action and less movement from gate to gate. It was also specified with desirable cruise control, which is a great feature to have for any long trip.
Powering this Carrera Cabriolet is a 3.2 liter flat-6 which produces 207 horsepower and is notorious for being one of the most dependable engines in Porsche’s history. Thanks to a Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection system and upgraded ignition, this engine makes power throughout the rev range and loves to pull all the way to redline at any opportunity. 1986 was also the final year for the classic 915 gearbox. Although some enthusiasts prefer the later G50 gearbox, the 915 retains the classic 911 shift feel as well as a cable-actuated clutch and is significantly lighter weight than the later transmission.
For the driving enthusiast who appreciates open-air motoring, it’s hard to do better than a 911 Cabriolet. 1986 is an excellent year for the 911 and features all of the desirable upgrades from the shift to the 3.2 liter Carrera while retaining that classic driving feel thanks to the 915 gearbox. Thanks to its great color combination and recent servicing, this 911 Cabriolet is just asking for you to put the roof down and enjoy a summer drive, with the sound of that flat-6 following you wherever you go.