911 convertibles have always been known for their
uncompromising approach to performance, and Porsche wants you to know the 992
generation makes no exception. A great deal of attention was given to the 2020 911 Cabriolet’s folding
roof, of which Porsche is so proud that they went as far as to release a video
and some diagrams that explain it in detail.
Developed completely in-house, the lightweight panel
bow convertible top is made from magnesium and creates a coupé-like curved roof
when closed, offering almost identical contours to the fixed-roof model. What’s
even cooler is that it lacks any visible bows underneath the fabric or any
sections to interrupt the classic 911 flyline.
Obviously, Porsche engineers and designers had to
consider many factors, not just design. Take, for example, the convenience
aspect. Thanks to a new, lighter hydraulic roof drive, the new 911 Cabriolet‘s
soft top can be opened or closed in about 12 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h.
Another important thing to consider was space. Since
there is no fixed connection between the panel bows and the fabric, the four
magnesium segments can fold flush over one another in a Z-folding mechanism
when the roof is down. This unique design means the folded roof consisting of
the fabric, frame, panel bows and rear window measures just 230 mm in
height and 550 mm in length, requiring very little storage space.
And when the top is closed, the levels of climate
and noise comfort come very close to those of the coupe thanks to the
insulating mat that lines the entire surface of the exterior fabric. With the
top down, comfort is enhanced by the electrically operated, fully integrated
wind deflector that reduces wind noise at higher speeds and protects against
draughts. It can be opened and closed up to a speed of 120 km/h.
Last but not least, Porsche claims the drag
coefficient of the 911 Cabriolet is almost the same as that of the coupe (0.29)
when the roof is closed. The way we see it, the higher price is the only
downside to getting the convertible instead of the 911 coupe.
