The 911 Carrera 4S features the classic 911 design, intelligent all-wheel drive and a potent 385-horsepower 3.8-liter flat-six engine. The model received an overhaul in 2009, which brought 30 more horsepower and exterior refinements.

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The style is unmistakable 911 as Porsche has finely and sometimes only subtly tweaked it over the decades, mostly in evolutionary measures. This latest model has swept-back ellipsoid headlamps, a widened body to accommodate larger wheels and tires, an aerodynamically tested body and a sloping fastback rear.

The 4 in the model designation denotes all-wheel drive while the S denotes high performance.

The all-wheel-drive unit transfers between five to 40 percent of torque to the front wheels. The system was updated along with the rest of the car in 2009. The system features electronic control of the differentials instead of the old viscous multi-plate clutch. It is a modified version of the system developed for the more powerful 911 Turbo, and features a mechanical limited-slip rear differential as standard equipment.

Porsche Stability Management comes standard with the all-wheel-drive system, which also improves the car's stopping distances.

The lightweight aluminum six-cylinder is of the flat variety, which lowers the car's center of gravity for improved handling. If you get a chance, take a look inside the rear engine bay of a 911. You'll be impressed at how the engineers pack in such a highly tuned performance motor into a compact spot, especially with all the ancillary mechanicals and the exhaust system.

This is a prime example of how Porsche has perfected the 911 design.

Engine power is routed to the 911 4S's standard 19-inch wheels through either a standard six-speed manual transmission or optional PDK seven-speed automated manual. The dual-clutch box can be shifted via steering wheel paddles, or it can shift automatically.

All C4 models can be distinguished from standard 911s thanks to wider rear fenders (by about 1.75 inches), a red reflector joining the rear LED brake lights, and LED daytime running lights up front as well as standard bi-xenon headlights.

In the cockpit, a new Porsche Communication Management system will be standard and support Bluetooth, USB devices and iPods, as well as offer easier interface with its touchscreen interface.