Porsche 911 Cabriolet review

Of course the 911 is expensive, but relatively speaking the Carrera models are competitive against their rivals from Jaguar and Mercedes. The Turbo models actually appear comparatively cheap next to a McLaren 650S Spider, and even the most expensive Turbo S is on a par pricewise with the Ferrari California.

Equipment levels aren’t overly generous, certainly compared to the F-Type R. Our favourite in the range, the 911 Carrera Cabriolet, comes with 19in alloy wheels, leather seats, sat-nav, rear parking sensors and dual-zone climate control. However, you still need to add options such as heated seats, full-electric seat adjustment, cruise control, LED headlights and metallic paint. It’s the same story with the Carrera S, although that does get bigger 20in alloys.

The Turbo models are slightly better. Front and rear parking sensors, plus a reversing camera, are standard on the Turbo, while Turbo S versions add 18-way electric seats and ceramic brakes.

Running cost aren’t for the faint hearted, but again, stack up well against the competition. For example, with a smaller engine than its rivals the Carrera Cabriolet achieves a sensible combined average of 33.2mpg, while CO2 emissions of 195g/km are class leading. That still nudges it into the higher of the tax bands though, making it an expensive company car choice. Servicing the Carrera over a three-year period will cost you a little more than its main competitors.

The Turbo models will drain your wallet even quicker, but still offer better all-round running costs than their main, more bespoke rivals.

Surprisingly, given its reputation, Porsche finished a disappointing one place from bottom in our most recent reliability survey. It’s not all bad news though, because 911s come with a comprehensive three-year, unlimited-mile warranty, including breakdown assistance.