Porsche released the first picture of the convertible version of the 2012 911 (991) Carrera in both normal and S formats.

The new 911 cab has one big party piece and that is a very innovative folding roof. Although it looks like a classic canvas roof when closed, the hood is actually made from a highly advanced combination of magnesium for lightness and extra rigidity. This way Porsche engineered made sure none of the great handling characteristics of the car have been lost.

Like the coupe, the new cabrio features an aluminum body, new electro-mechanical power steering, longer wheelbase and wider tracks which on the whole result in a different driving experience than the 997 series.

The engine lineup is also the same as the coupe, including a 3.4-litre engine generating 350 hp (257 kW), and a a 3.8-litre engine developing 400 hp (294 kW) for the S models. It can be had with the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) double-clutch or the seven-speed manual gearbox. Those who have tried both say, albeit silently, that the PDK is actually more fun.

This fantastic drop-top 991 will hit the market in Spring 2012. The 911 Carrera Cabriolet is priced from £79,947 (100,532 Euros), the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet from £89,740 (114,931 Euros).