2008 Porsche 911 Carrera Convertible 4

Porsche's 911 Carrera 4 convertible takes the already attractive performance package of the regular Carrera convertible and adds sure-footed all-wheel drive.

Overall, this provides more capable handing and is especially useful in low-grip conditions such as rain or snow.

The 4 in the Carrera 4 model designation lets it be known that the vehicle is equipped with all-wheel drive. The system transfers power to all four wheels when needed, plus it works in concert with Porsche Stability Management to shorten stopping distances.

In normal driving conditions, only the rear wheels are given power. However, in low-grip conditions, five to 40 percent of power can be seamlessly transferred to the front axle. The driver may not even know it's happening. The stability offers peace of mind as well as more confidence for spirited driving of this sporting machine.

Under the small rear hood sits Porsche's 3.6-liter flat-six engine with 325 horsepower and 274 pound-feet of torque.

Porsche has been perfecting its six-speed manual gearbox over the years and the Carrera 4 is a beneficiary, with shift throws shortened by 15 percent.

For those who prefer to have their shifts done for them, a five-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission is an option. It has a manumatic shifting feature, so if the driver is in a sporting mood the transmission can be shifted via rocker controls on the steering wheel, without a clutch, of course.

The Carrera 4 convertible's soft-top roof is fully automatic. With the press of one button, it takes just 20 seconds for the roof to fold back and out of sight. It is concealed under a cover, preserving the sports car's attractive lines.

In typical Porsche luxury fashion, the roof is nicely tailored and well insulated for those days when the roof must be up.

A matching hard-top roof is also available.