IN THE GARAGE: 1990 Porsche 911 Carrera (964) Targa

1990 Porsche 911 Carrera Targa
Fast, fun and fine

A RED SLED ON THE CHRISTMAS LIST! Bridging the gap between the classic “impact bumper” 911s like the SC and Carrera 3.2 and the more modern 993, the 964 is considered by many to be the best of both worlds. It closely resembles the iconic shape that dates back to the 911’s debut in 1964 while incorporating the sleek styling of the modern Porsches. It looks like a more aerodynamic Carrera 3.2 but according to Porsche, the 964 is over 90% new components; therefore it represents a milestone in the 911s history. Yet it naturally maintains the air-cooled motor (now enlarged to 3.6 liters and developing 247 bhp in stock form) and, as in the case of this car, represents the last time a true open-roofed, greenhouse Targa was available in a 911. The car presented today is mostly original with the exception of a resprayed nose (a vinyl bra was left on too long and the paint started to blister), Sony CD player and some very tasteful but potent Rennline modifications including a larger, easier-breathing airbox as well as drilled aluminum pedals and door sills. The result is a 964 that feels very much like a 993 in power and balance.

OVERALL CONDITION
The first thing we notice about the car is its paint. With the exception of the aforementioned nose respray, it is original and maintains a respectable gloss and depth. There’s none of the oxidation or clearcoat flaking that is so common with older Guards Red. There is one very small (about the size of a dime) ding in the right rear fender above the wheels arch. Otherwise the car has never seen any accident damage and is is perfectly straight. A tremendous amount of care has been given throughout its ownership to preserve its integrity. The bügel (targa bar) wears its original black anodization where others have long faded away or been reanodized. Rubber is like new all around and was clearly kept out of heat and dryness. Inside, we find a full leather interior that shows very little wear. There is a small crack coming off the driver’s side door lock in the upper door trim. Otherwise the car is free of cracks and only a small bit of warping around the vents on the dash. The leather shows no fading, tears, cracks, or any excessive wear whatsoever. Controls and instruments all work properly including cold AC. Carpets are deep and thick. The targa top is stain-fee and has none of the tears or runs that are often found in the headliner as a result of multiple foldings. The motor, like any 3.6, is a beautiful piece of machinery but one with less than 90,000 miles and fresh service is exceptionally beautiful. There are no valve guide issues, leaks or unusual noises. Its routine maintenance has seen to that. The transmission has also been serviced on schedule and is very solid with smooth linkages up and down through all gears. Factory Cup wheels are shod with near-new Yokohamas that show excellent (90+% tread). This is an exceptionally nice and properly enhanced example of a 964 .

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
I’ve said it before. 911s are made to be driven. Like any 911, this one is loads of fun to drive. Put your foot in it and its seats will hug you. Show it a twisty road and it will dance with you. If you’re feeling a little racy, that’s fine too. The big airbox and sport exhaust work in concert to deliver a symphony of free-flowing power. Everything on it it silky and tight. The 3.6 liter motor fires up and pulls strong while the 5-speed transmission is crisp and sure with so play and no sync issues. Steering is very responsive and the road feel is excellent through a tight suspension and excellent Yokohama tires. Braking is firm and solid. This is a car that feels classic but completely fresh and relevant. In other words, it’s a true 911.