The standard Carrera engine is an all-alloy, 3.6-liter flat or "boxer" six equipped with Porsche's VarioCam Plus variable valve timing. It produces 325 hp @ 6,800 rpm with 273 foot-pounds of torque. Equipped with the highly rated six-speed manual transmission, the base Carrera can make the 0-60 jump in 4.8 seconds. Backed by the five-speed Tiptronic S automatic, the jump takes 5.2 seconds. Top speed is 177/174 mph (manual/automatic). Despite all this performance, the EPA ratings aren't as bad as you'd expect, with the manual and automatic getting identical ratings of 18/26 mpg city/highway.

The suspension features MacPherson struts sporting forged-aluminum control arms with a new and lighter subframe-based multi-link LSA (Lightweight, Stable, Agile) suspension for the rear axle structure. The front and rear wheel track have been widened for better stability and balance. The 911 uses a variable-ratio steering design that allows the driver to turn faster simply by turning the steering wheel more.

On the road, reviewers rave about the Carrera's acceleration, cornering, road feel, and braking. Perhaps the most impressive aspect of the Carrera's handling is "the way it accurately follows the path the driver sets." Reviewers found that once you aim the Carrera, there is little that can divert its track - bumps, potholes, or whatever.

Porsche's race-developed electronics have helped nail down the 911's once-wagging tail. The Carrera comes with the excellent Porsche Stability Management system, which has been modified to allow the driver more leeway exploring the car's handling limits. And while reviewers expect great handling, they seem surprised at the Carrera's "daily-driver livability." They find it easy and comfortable to drive under all conditions.

Porsche interiors, noted for their build quality and simplicity, are meant for drivers; they offer little to distract from the main attraction: the road. The steering wheel includes height and telescopic adjustments, while the interior has undergone further ergonomic organization to place controls within easy reach of the driver. Reviewers found the standard seating comfortable for both sport and long-distance driving. The rear seats, considered by all reviewers to be humanly uninhabitable, fold down to add 7.24 cubic feet of storage space.

Standard safety equipment includes six airbags (dual front, side, and head), antilock disc brakes, traction control, and stability control. The Porsche braking system is race-bred and one of the most effective available anywhere. The Carrera is at home on the daily commute or at the weekend competition.