2020 Porsche 911 Carrera

header-image
Rating8.0

Ranked #10 in 

Midsize Coupe
Write Review
$97,400 - $133,400
Starting Price 
M. Hannigan's image
M. Hannigan 

Content Writer,

Updated on November 3, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Stylish and elegant cabin

Rear seating lacks comfort and is somewhat unusable

The Carrera T joins the lineup

Luxurious interior

Infotainment system needs improvement

A new interior air filtration system

Iconic body styling

New seat styling themes

Excellent steering and handling

A plethora of customization options

Specs & Features

$104,700

price

379 hp @ 6500 rpm

horsepower

331 lb.-ft. @ 1950 rpm

torque

8-Speed Automated Manual

transmission

3.0L 6cyl AWD 8AM

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The Carrera is as basic as a Porsche 911 could get. It stands at the bottom of the lineup both in terms of power and price. Even though it is entry-level, it is like that mascot on the front gates of Coney Island that let you know exactly what it's like in the rest of the range. The Carrera Coupe still carries the essence of a nimble, high-performance sports car of its upper siblings in a noteworthy spirit. Now in its 56th year of production, it would be quite interesting to see how Porsche gives a sendoff to the last of the 991 series Carrera.

Buying Advice

There are just so many options one can choose for the Porsche 911 Carrera. While all the S models have more power and torque along with other feats, all cabriolets come with a convertible feature. Priced at $105,100, Carrera S provides the most value for money.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The latest 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera is backed by a twin-turbocharged flat-six engine. The base trims make less than 400 horsepower but it is how the Porsche 911 Carrera uses that power that makes it such a remarkable automobile. A lightweight chassis, rear engine mount, and RWD all come together to grant the 911 Carrera its prowess for agility. The cabin is not left out, either. Porsche offers near-limitless customizations to make sure you get the 911 that perfectly suits your taste.

Porsche 911 Carrera is one of the most elegant and reliable rides to offer riders the real feel of speed. In its segment, the racing car competes with the likes of Audi TT RS, Nissan GT-R, and Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT. Even though its power and torque capabilities are less than the competitors, Porsche 911 Carrera is one of the best deals with a stylish build, a lucrative fuel economy, and an impeccable racing car disposition.

Features
7.8/10

2020 Porsche 911 Carrera is available in 8 trim levels: the Carrera and Carrera S coupes along with their AWD and cabriolet variants. Each Porsche 911 Carrera trim packs a 3.0L twin-turbo flat-six engine. However, the power and torque delivered are of two types. The engine delivers 370 hp and 331 lb.-ft. of torque for the basic Carrera trims. Upgrading to the S trims grants you 420 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque to play around with. A premium of $12,000 upgrades the coupes to their convertible counterparts. This gives you the ability to take the roof down in under 12 seconds whilst moving at speeds up to 30 mph.

Trims Carrera Carrera S Carrera 4 Carrera 4S
MSRP $91,100 $105,100 $98,000 $112,000
Key Features 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six engine (370 hp, 331 lb-ft) 3.0-liter flat-six engine with more power (420 hp, 368 lb-ft) Features Same as Carrera Plus: Features Same as Carrera S Plus:
  A seven-speed manual gearbox(standard) larger brakes All Wheel Drive System All Wheel Drive System
  dual-clutch automatic (optional) 20-inch wheels    
    Sport-tuned suspension    
    Active stabilizer bars    
    Rear-wheel steering    

We Recommend

There are just so many options one can choose for the Porsche 911 Carrera. While all the S models have more power and torque along with other feats, all cabriolets come with a convertible feature. Priced at $105,100, Carrera S provides the most value for money.

Fuel Economy
7.8/10

Obviously, fuel economy doesn't factor in purchasing high-performance cars to the likes of Porsche 911 Carrera. Nonetheless, having an above average economy is certainly better. The latest entry into the Porsche 911 Carrera delivers a 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on highways. Together, it delivers an impressive fuel economy of 23 mpg, which is far better than its contemporaries.

Model

Porsche 911 Carrera

Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT

Audi TT RS

MPG (city)

20

16

19

MPG (highway)

29

21

29

MPG (combined)

23

18

22

While the Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT and Nissan GT-R deliver a combined fuel economy of 18 mpg, Audi TT RS max out on 17 mpg.

Interior
8.5/10

"The 2020 Porsche 911 is supremely equipped for up to two people with exceptional materials and fit and finish." -The Car Connection

Seating and Comfort

The 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera ties with the Nissan GT-R in terms of passenger capacity, which is 4. Audi TT RS and Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT can accommodate only 2 persons. The Porsche 911 Carrera has a well-built and comfortable passenger volume of 70 ft. cube. This is much greater than the 50 ft. cube offered by R8. Nonetheless, Nissan GT-R and Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT offers more passenger volume of 79 and 86 ft. cube, respectively.

Model

Porsche 911 Carrera

Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT

Audi TT RS

Passenger capacity

4

2

4

Passenger Volume (ft cube)

70.0

86.0

N/A

Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

N/A

39.5/55.6/45.2

37.1/53.6/41.1

Rear(Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)

N/A

N/A

33.8/47.9/28.9

Infotainment System

The infotainment system integrated with the Porsche 911 Carrera is almost monochromatic and chic. It blends in effortlessly with other controls on the dashboard. While navigating the several available menus are easy, the display performance is somewhat snippy at times. The 2017 iteration of the Carrera introduced the simplified on-screen menu and on-screen shortcuts, which are now enhanced.

Cargo Capacity

Cargo capacity isn't much of a concern in sports cars. For Porsche 911 Carrera, it is merely 5.1 cube ft. This is less than the competition, where Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT has the most of 10.1 cube ft. Audi TT RS and Nissan GT-R offer a cargo volume of 8.0 and 8.8 cubes ft., respectively.

Model

Porsche 911 Carrera

Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT

Audi TT RS

Volume (cube ft)

5.1

10.1

12.0

Interior Features

The interior of the Carrera is specifically designed to allow the passengers to enjoy the coupe's powerful performance. And with each iteration, it keeps on getting better and better. The inside of the 2020 avatar of the legendary sports car features:

  • Several new two-tone seat options, including Black and Chalk with Guards Red stitching
  • Greater customization with Porsche's Exclusive program
  • Enhanced interior air filter
  • A new page in the instrument digital readout, displaying cabin air circulation

Exterior
9.0/10

"The 2020 Porsche 911’s performance is perfect, regardless of model." -The Car Connection

The Porsche 911 Carrera flaunts to have the lightest build, with a total curb weight of 3153 lbs. This is over 500 lbs. less than the Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT and even lesser than that of Audi TT RS and Nissan GT-R. Dimension-wise, Carrera has 177.1 inches, 71.2 inches and 50.9 inches of length, width and height, respectively. The length and width of Carrera are less than that of AMG-GT and GT-R but greater than that of the sleek Audi TT RS.

Model

Porsche 911 Carrera

Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT

Audi TT RS

curb weight(lbs)

3153

3682

3306

Length(in)

177.1

179.0

165.0

Width(in)

71.2

76.3

72.1

Height(in)

50.9

49.6

52.9

Ground clearance(in)

4.3

4.9

4.3

Wheelbase(in)

96.5

103.5

98.6

Track width(in) F/R

60.7/59.8

66.1/65.0

61.6/60.8

Exterior Features

The Porsche 911 offers a great amount of variation in Carrera and Carrera S trims, however, the iconic shape remains the same. Enduring an entire half-century is something remarkable that the Carrera body styling has achieved. It is actually a mesh of coupe, convertible and Targa body styles. New to the exterior of the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera is:

  • A unique graphic on the side

  • Front lip spoiler and gray exterior mirror caps

  • 20-inch wheels option

  • A new white hue, dubbed Chalk available for $3150

Safety
8.9/10

Safety and reliability are of the essence to any sports car, to which the Porsche 911 Carrera is no exception. In addition to having 4-wheel ABS, the 2020 Porsche 911 Carrera comes with 4-wheel disc brakes. Brakes assist and electronic stability control are also available in addition to the DRL (Daytime Running Lights).

Additionally, the racing coupe has auto-leveling headlights, blind-spot monitor and lane departure warning system as important safety measures.

Safety Features

  • Driver Front and Side Airbags
  • Passenger Front and Side Airbags
  • 4-Wheel ABS
  • 4-Wheel Disc Brakes
  • Emergency Brake Assist
  • Electronic Stability Control
  • Daytime Running Lights
  • Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Auto-Leveling Headlights
  • Lane Departure Warning

Competition
7.0/10

Porsche 911 Carrera vs Audi TT RS

Audi TT RS is one of the economic racing car options, priced at $64,900. However, it is worth that money especially because of its powerful 2.5L FSI engine that delivers 540 hp of power and 398 lb.-ft. of torque. The 0-60 MPH acceleration time is also impressive at 3.5 seconds. Moreover, it makes a quarter-mile distance in just 10.9 seconds, best than any other racing coupe.

Porsche 911 Carrera vs Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT

Mercedes-Benz AMG-GT is capable to deliver 469 hp of solid power and 465 lb.-ft. of torque. All thanks to the Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 bi-turbo engine. Acceleration time of 3.9 seconds from 0-60 MPH isn't impressive and CO2 emission value of 9.8 is not also good. However, it has a great ground clearance of 4.9 inches, about 0.6 inches more than that of the 911 Porsche Carrera.

Final Verdict
8.1/10

The 2020 Porsche Carrera remains largely unchanged. Unlike the Ferarri belief of redesign, Porsche believes in evolving their present lineup and perfecting their craft of automaking with each iteration. As the years have passed the 911 series has come a long way since its birth in 1963 and the 2020 911 sets the benchmark for sports cars. One of the lightest and most fuel-efficient cars the Porsche is a great option for both serious and casual petrolheads alike.

Trims

    4
    $104,700 onwards
    • Dual Illuminating Vanity Mirrors
    • Rain Sensing Windshield wipers
    Base
    $97,400 onwards
    • Engine: 3.0L 6cyl RWD 8AM
    • Horsepower: 379 hp @ 6500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 331 lb.-ft. @ 1950 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 3.8 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg
    S
    $113,300 onwards
    • Engine: 3.0L 6cyl RWD 7M
    • Horsepower: 443 hp @ 6500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 390 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 3.5 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 23 mpg
    S 4S
    $120,600 onwards
    • Engine: 3.0L 6cyl AWD 8AM
    • Horsepower: 443 hp @ 6500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 390 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 4.04 sec
    • Top Speed: 191 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg
    GTS
    $120,700 Est. onwards
    • Engine: 3.0L 6cyl RWD 7M
    • Horsepower: 370 hp @ 6500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 331 lb.-ft. @ 1700 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 3.5 sec
    • Top Speed: 193 mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 23 mpg
    S Carrera S
    $126,100 onwards
    • Engine: 3.0L 6cyl 8AM
    • Horsepower: 443 hp @ 6500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 390 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: 4.27 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 20 mpg

Compare to similar cars

Price

$97,400- $133,400

Engine

Gasoline

Rating

8.03

Horsepower

502 hp @ 8400 rpm

Torque

390 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm

Capacity

4

Read Review

$69,150- $103,100

Gasoline

7.09

425 hp @ 5500 rpm

406 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm

4

Read Review

$205,600- $245,900

Gasoline

7.2

503 hp @ 6000 rpm

513 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

4

Read Review

$152,995- $204,995

Gasoline

7.29

503 hp @ 6000 rpm

505 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm

2

Read Review

$115,900- $162,400

Gasoline

7.34

469 hp @ 6000 rpm

465 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm

2

Read Review

$58,900- $77,850

Gasoline

7.73

490 hp @ 6450 rpm

465 lb.-ft. @ 5150 rpm

2

Read Review

$143,600

Gasoline

7.61

502 hp

460 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm

4

Read Review

$113,540- $145,540

Gasoline

7.21

565 hp @ 6800 rpm

467 lb.-ft. @ 3300 rpm

4

Read Review

$67,600

Gasoline

7.9

394 hp @ 6000 rpm

354 lb.-ft. @ 1700 rpm

4

Read Review

$61,600- $126,700

Gasoline

7.98

296 hp @ 5500 rpm

295 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm

2

Read Review

2020 Porsche 911 Carrera vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Quarter Mile
    Top Speed
    SourceCompare
    3.8 sec12.4 sec-
    3.11 sec-198 mph
    3.11 sec--
    3.35 sec11.5 sec-
    3.4 sec--
    3.6 sec12.2 sec155 mph

    2020 Porsche 911 Carrera vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Fuel Tank Capacity
      Range (C/H)
      SourceCompare
      18 mpg24 mpg20 mpg16.9 gal.304.2/405.6 mi.
      23 mpg30 mpg26 mpg18.5 gal.425.5/555 mi.
      19 mpg29 mpg23 mpg14.5 gal.275.5/420.5 mi.
      18 mpg24 mpg20 mpg20.5 gal.369/492 mi.
      2020 BMW M4

      Ranked #3

      18 mpg25 mpg20 mpg15.8 gal.284.4/395 mi.
      18 mpg24 mpg20 mpg19.3 gal.347.4/463.2 mi.

      2020 Porsche 911 Carrera vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        177.9 in.72.9 in.51.1 in.4.3 in.96.5 in.

        2020 Bentley Continental GT

        Ranked #1

        190.9 in.76.9 in.55.3 in.5.6 in.112.2 in.
        186.6 in.76.7 in.50.8 in.4.5 in.110.4 in.
        185.4 in.74.6 in.53.9 in.-109.4 in.
        2020 BMW M4

        Ranked #4

        184.5 in.73.6 in.54.4 in.4.7 in.110.7 in.
        182.3 in.76.1 in.48.6 in.5.3 in.107.2 in.

        2020 Porsche 911 Carrera vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          SourceCompare
          4.6 cu.ft.88 cu.ft.4.6 cu.ft.
          9.5 cu.ft.177.8 cu.ft.108.4 cu.ft.
          12 cu.ft.125.3 cu.ft.50.3 cu.ft.
          2020 BMW M4

          Ranked #3

          11 cu.ft.94 cu.ft.11 cu.ft.
          12.6 cu.ft.99.6 cu.ft.12.6 cu.ft.
          10.1 cu.ft.-10.1 cu.ft.

          2020 Porsche 911 Carrera vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Bed Length
            SourceCompare
            41.8 cu.ft.4.6 cu.ft.4.6 cu.ft.-
            10.1 cu.ft.10.1 cu.ft.10.1 cu.ft.-
            48.4 cu.ft.12.6 cu.ft.12.6 cu.ft.-
            -12.4 cu.ft.-79 ft.
            -10.1 cu.ft.--
            6.6 cu.ft.14.4 cu.ft.14.4 cu.ft.-

            2020 Porsche 911 Carrera vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              SourceCompare
              967 lbs.3354 lbs.
              884 lbs.3360 lbs.
              -3594 lbs.
              -3880 lbs.
              772 lbs.3296 lbs.
              -3594 lbs.

              Top Porsche Cars

              2020 Porsche 911 Carrera

              Horsepower : 379 hp @ 6500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 20 mpg

              0-60 : 3.8 sec

              #1

              2020 Porsche Cayenne

              Horsepower : 335 hp @ 5300 rpm

              MPG Combined : 20 mpg

              0-60 : 5.7 sec

              #2

              2020 Porsche Cayenne Coupe

              Horsepower : 335 hp @ 5300 rpm

              MPG Combined : 20 mpg

              0-60 : 6.2 sec

              #3

              2020 Porsche Panamera

              Horsepower : 330 hp @ 5400 rpm

              MPG Combined : 22 mpg

              0-60 : 6 sec

              #4

              2020 Porsche 718 Cayman

              Horsepower : 300 hp @ 6500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 22 mpg

              0-60 : 4.9 sec

              #5

              2020 Porsche 718 Boxster

              Horsepower : 300 hp @ 6500 rpm

              MPG Combined : 22 mpg

              0-60 : 4.9 sec

              #6

              2020 Porsche Macan

              Horsepower : 248 hp @ 5000 rpm

              MPG Combined : 21 mpg

              0-60 : 6.3 sec

              #7