2008 Porsche 911 Carrera Convertible 4S

The Carrera 4S convertible is the all-wheel-drive version of Porsche's 911 in its highest-performance S trim.

The S means it packs a 3.8-liter 355-horsepower flat-six engine under its deck lid, which is 30 horsepower more than the non-S model. Acceleration from zero to 60 miles per hour is 4.7 seconds, quicker by 0.2 of a second.

This potent powerplant is hooked up to a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic Tiptronic S. The automatic offers manumatic shifting via rocker controls on the steering wheel.

Helping transmit this power to the asphalt are 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in low-profile rubber, one-inch larger than the non-S model. A spoiler automatically deploys at the rear to aid in down force at high speeds.

The 911 Carrera 4S cabrio is predominantly rear-wheel drive. That is, unless wheel slip is detected, which is when from five to 40 percent of power is transferred to the front wheels.

Along with Porsche Stability Management, the all-wheel-drive system also helps to shorten stopping distances.

The stability offers peace of mind as well as more confidence for spirited driving of this highly tuned sports car.

Standard on the S (optional on the non-S) is Porsche Active Suspension Management, an electronic control system which uses continuous damper adjustment to maintain optimum ride quality and comfort. Two modes are offered: normal and sport.

For open-air touring, the pressing of one button is all that's needed to open the roof, which then folds and tucks beneath a flat cover in a brief 20 seconds.

A lightweight aluminum hard-top roof, painted to match the car's body, is also available, especially useful for those in harsh wintry climates. It features a heated rear glass window.