Tag: Targa

AT THE SHOW: More Powerful, Dynamic Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS Premiers in Detroit

January 12, 2015 / moto+match / 0 Comments

To mark the 50th anniversary of the 911 Targa, Porsche is offering this very popular model in the more powerful and dynamic GTS version for the first time. The concept of the 911 Targa 4 GTS delivers confident driving enjoyment with all-wheel drive and a Targa bar; it also delivers open-air fun with a fully automatic Targa top. Contributing to a boost in dynamic performance are the 430 hp GTS engine together with the standard Sport Chrono package, PASM chassis, 20-inch center lock wheels, and sport exhaust system.

Despite its significantly extended features, the power to weight ratio with the 430-hp engine was improved compared to the S model to less than 8 pounds per horsepower. This lets the Targa 4 GTS reach a top track speed of over 186 mph, and the stopwatch records 4.1 seconds for the sprint from zero to 60 mph when equipped with the PDK transmission.

Using the wider Carrera 4 body as all Targas do is the perfect starting point for the design of the new 911 Targa 4 GTS. The front is defined by the sport design front fascia with an opening for the auxiliary middle radiator and the tinted Bi-Xenon™ headlights that feature the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS). When viewed from the side, characteristic GTS attributes are the matte black 20-inch center lock 911 Turbo S wheels, the sport design side mirrors, and “GTS” signatures on the doors. The “targa” logo on the silver Targa bar is also finished in black. At the rear, black accents are finished with a glossy trim on the air inlet cover and chrome exhaust pipes, accompanied by the matte black model logo

GTS DNA also defines the interior of the 911 Targa 4 GTS. The stopwatch of the standard Sport Chrono package sits atop the dashboard. In the front, the four-way adjustable Sport seats Plus – with their black GTS logo on the head restraints – provide additional lateral support and long-distance cruising comfort for both driver and passenger. The dominant interior material is black Alcantara®, which is half the weight of leather.

The Targa has been an established member of the 911 lineup since it made its debut back in 1965. Around one out of eight 911 cars ever sold was a Targa. The market share of the latest generation of this exquisitely styled 911 with its characteristic Targa bar is 13 percent – and it is growing. With the 911 Targa 4 GTS, Porsche is extending its lineup of the modern classic by adding a top model whose extensive package of standard features and price are appealing.

The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS will be launched in the United States in late-April 2015. The MSRP for the 911 Targa 4 GTS is $132,800. MSRP does not include a destination charge of $995.

PICK OF THE DAY: Almost There 1972 Porsche 911 T Targa

April 25, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

While the earlier short-wheelbase Porsche 911s have been in extraordinary demand lately, the “longhood” cars of 1972 remain some of the most coveted. 1972 brought fuel injection to the base 911 T (in the US) such that the full line, with the E and the S, now had MFI linked to the competent 2.4 liter motor. 1972 is also sought after as it was the only year that featured an external oil flap, located just aft of the passenger door. Aside from the visual difference, it correlated to the tank itself being moved in front of the rear wheels, which improved balance and handling, minimized oil surge and kept rocks and debris from damaging the shell. The rumor is that gas station attendants (which were still prevalent at the time)—unfamiliar with the location of the tank (and likely the motor as well)—assumed the flap was for gasoline and were no doubt surprised when the fuel quickly reached the top of the tank. Owners in turn were at least as surprised when their motors seized. Thus in 1973, Porsche returned the tank to its previous position and eliminated the flap. The ’72 E-Modelle and ’73 F-Modelle isn’t too far behind the earlier short-wheelbase cars, with recent auction prices eclipsing $100,000 for an S, $70-80K for an E and $60-70K for the Ts. This ’72 T Targa will need some love to bring it to that level, but it doesn’t appear far off. It has the matching numbers engine and transmission and appears to have an original interior, though it will need some attention including upholstery repair, dashboard (both relatively inexpensive), and door pockets (these aren’t cheap). In addition, while the floor pans look to be solid, it will need some rust repair in the undercarriage and typical areas on the body. Finally, given the thickness of paint on the car from numerous resprays, a quality bare-metal paint job would go a long way to bring the car up to a high standard (rust spots and skewed trim could be addressed at the same time). Besides the model year, its has some other pluses: its original Glacier Blue color is perfect for an early 70s 911 and it matches its Certificate of Authenticity. It has a well-documented history including the highly-prized maintenance book and ample service records. Furthermore, it is a nicely optioned car with S gauges and trim, leather steering wheel (swathed in an additional aftermarket cover in the photos), and tinted glass. The seller’s asking price of $45,000 is justifiable, albeit a little strong as there is work to be done and, despite their collectivity, they don’t fetch much in No. 3 or No. 4 driver condition. That said, the market continues to escalate and it won’t be long before anything under $50K is a bargain. Find it here on Craigslist in Tuscon AZ.

PICK OF THE DAY: Proper Acura NSX-T

March 7, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

Nearly 10 years after the Acura NSX ceased production, even the most Euro-centric enthusiasts among us still dart our eye towards one if it should pass by. Its only real flaw was that it wore the badge of a Japanese marque that was better known for sensible, economical transportation for soccer moms and grad students. Then again, the same could be said of Toyota and it took on the world with the 2000 GT. I know of few real car people who wouldn’t give a limb or discretionary million dollars to own a 2000 GT. That is not to say the NSX is destined for that kind of status, but they certainly do warrant respect for what they are. To this day, their shape is not dated and if it wore a badge like Pagani or Bugatti or something else that ended in ‘i,’ they would be media darlings (as demonstrated by the recent buzz surrounding the close-to-production NSX concept car that’s making its way around the show circuit.

If then you’re in the market for an NSX—or even if you haven’t considered one—you can’t do too much better than the one presented here. To begin with it’s a later model with the much-improved 3.2 Litre and 6-speed gearbox that propelled the car to 60 in under five seconds. There are still very few cars under a half million bucks that can claim that and the NSX does so with the aforementioned sensibility that comes from being a Honda. This car looks exceptionally good in its Kaiser Silver paint over a well cared for Onyx leather interior. With just under 52,000 miles, it’s not exactly vestal but it’s also not a weathered 100,000-mile example that so many NSXs are (further testament to their reliability). It’s a car that its next owner can do what it was meant for—to enjoy it—without too much bother of racking up miles. While it’s true that an older, high-mileage, 3.0 L NSX can be had for well under $30,000, this cars obvious care and improved drivability doesn’t make its asking price of $44,800 unreasonable. Find it here on AutoTrader in Incline Village, Nevada.

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PICK OF THE DAY: Nearly There Porsche 914 2.0

February 26, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

The Porsche 914 wasn’t always a collector’s dream. Many saw it as more VW than Porsche and indeed gave the Karmann Ghia more respect. Recently however, as other air-cooled cars are escalating to prices that are no longer appealing to the hobbyist collector, a growing number have cast aside earlier judgment and have actually driven them to find they deserve the Porsche on their own merit. Particularly in the later (1973-76) 2.0 litre form, they are enjoyable in a different sort of way than say a 911 of the same era, but immensely enjoyable nonetheless.

The car presented here appears to check all the boxes of what a good Porsche 914 ought to be. It’s a 2.0 Litre that has enough integrity to be called original, but with enough modifications to harness what these cars are truly about. It is said to be rust-free, which is the first concern in looking at a 914. Its unique Marathon Blue finish appears to be in good shape and, save for a few easily repairable blems, looks to be very straight. It has the preferable chrome bumpers (last seen in 1974) and sits nicely on optional Mahle wheels. Interior also appears to be in good shape with only a couple easy nicks and cracks to sort out. The motor is said to have been professionally rebuilt and bored to 2056 cc (stock is 1971 cc) with the factory fuel injection replaced with dual Webers (commonly done) although the original fuel injection is included in the sale as are a set of larger Webers. On paper, it has all the makings of a car that is a kick in the pants to drive and a smart investment. Find it here on Craigslist in Detroit MI for $8,500.

IN THE GARAGE: 1968 Porsche 912 Targa

February 10, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments


VIN	12870065
Exterior	[6804] Light Ivory
Interior	[B] Black Leatherette
Motor	1.6 L H4 rated at 90 bhp
Gearbox	[902/02] 5-Speed Manual
Exterior Condition	Outstanding (1)
Interior Condition	Outstanding (1)
Drivetrain	Outstanding (1)
Braking	Excellent (2)
Suspension/Ride	Excellent (2)
Tires/wheels	Good (3+)

APPRECIATING CLASSIC Anyone who has followed the market on the original, Butzi-designed, short-wheelbase Porsche A Modelles can speak to their stratospheric appreciation, particularly since the recent Arizona auctions. Sadly, the dream of owning a 1965-1968 Porsche 911 is getting out of reach for most hobbyist collectors. But there is a glimmer of hope. As it did when it was introduced in 1965, the 912 offers much of the same joys of owning a classic Porsche at prices that are still reasonable. With their iconic looks, nimble handling and go-the-distance fuel economy, the Porsche 912 is a Cinderella story in the making. However, finding a 912 that hasn’t been treated like the unworthy stepsister can be a grim task. Likewise, to bring one back to its deserved glory can be more trouble than its worth—literally. The 912 Targa presented here has been painstakingly restored to a high standard from the ground up and it sits today much like it did on the showroom floor in 1968.

HISTORY AND CONDITION

This 912 owes much of its restoration quality to its history. With only two prior owners from dry climates (California and New Mexico), the rust that plagues early Porsches was not a factor. There was no rot on the body whatsoever and with new floors and longitudinals, the carriage is factory fresh. Its bare-metal paint was done to a very high standard as an exact factory match to its original and desirable Light Ivory color. Gaps are near perfect—exceptional for an almost 50-year-old open-roof car. All seals, felt and rubber trim were replaced for a solid, like-new feel. The interior is completely new including cushions, upholstery, dash, carpets and trim. It truly is a throwback to how it would’ve felt behind the wheel in 1968. The correct motor and transmission are a nuts-and-bolts rebuild and with less than 300 miles since, it feels fresh and surprisingly lively. That’s due in part to its Weber carburetors, though the factory Solex are also included in the sale. The Fuchs wheels are in excellent condition with no curb rash and very good finish (Certificate of Authenticity shows the car delivered with Steelies, one of the only things NOT original to the car). All hinges, struts, latches, etc. work properly. Also included are hard-to-find items like complete tool roll and original (not reprint) owner’s manual.

IN THE NEWS: Porsche 911 Targa Raises the Roof in Detroit

January 13, 2014 / moto+match / 0 Comments

At the North American International Auto Show in Detroit today (13 January), Porsche is presenting the latest addition to the iconic 911 sports coupé family: the 911 Targa. While enthusiasts will recognise cues from the classic Targa concept, pioneered by Porsche in the late 1960s, this latest model is the first to combine state-of-the-art open roof technology with the distinctive coupé appearance.

Just like the legendary original 911 Targa model, the new model features a characteristic wide bar in place of the B-pillars aft of the doors, a movable roof section above the driver and passenger, and a wrap-around rear window — with no C-pillar. But, unlike the classic models, the roof segment of the new Targa can be opened and closed at the push of a button. When the button is pressed, the fully automatic system stows the roof top behind the rear seats, providing a real spectacle.

The rear-biased Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive fitted as standard is a further typical dynamic Porsche feature, and guarantees that the latest 911 Targa also offers optimum driving dynamics on all road surfaces and in all weather conditions.

With these features, the new 911 Targa presents itself as a high-quality, innovative reinterpretation of the classic first edition from 1965. The model shares a great deal in common with the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet models; up to the window line, the technology and body of the vehicles is virtually identical. The combination of the wide rear body that is typical of all-wheel drive 911 models, the Targa roof bar and the dome-shaped rear window create a low-slung profile that gives the latest 911 an extremely sporting appearance.

New and spectacular – the fully automatic Targa roof

The Targa roof system has always been a distinctive hallmark of this 911 model. The new 911 Targa continues this tradition with a particularly innovative roof concept. The roof is made up of two movable parts: a soft top and a glass rear window. The rear window, which is attached to the convertible top

compartment lid, is opened and tilted at the push of a button. At the same time, two flaps open in the Targa bar, releasing the soft top’s kinematics. The convertible top is released, folded into a Z-shape as the roof opens, and stowed away behind the rear seats. A stowage area running across the car behind the rear seats accommodates the convertible top. Once the top has been stowed, the flaps in the bar close and the rear window moves back in to position once again. The roof takes around 19 seconds to open or close using the buttons in the centre console – and can be operated only while the vehicle is stationary. A wind deflector integrated in the cowl panel frame can be erected manually when the top is down. This deflector reduces drafts and buffeting in the interior by a considerable margin, should this be the driver’s preference.

Intelligent lightweight construction using steel, aluminium and magnesium

The materials used in the roof system are just as innovative as the concept itself. The premium quality fabric hood is stretched particularly taut by the magnesium roof shell and panel bow. An additional sound absorber beneath the convertible-top covering has a thermal-insulating effect and reduces road noise when the roof is closed. The rear edge of the soft top connects up to the fixed Targa bar, which features steel roll-over protection on the inside and painted cast aluminium elements on the outside. The three gills and ‘targa’ lettering on the sides of the bar are a subtle leitmotif inspired by the original 1965 Targa model.

The rear window, which is made from extremely lightweight laminated safety glass, consists of two layers of thin, partially pre-tensioned glass separated by a film interlayer. The very fine heating elements on the heated rear window cover almost the entire surface of the glass, ensuring exceptional all-round visibility even in unfavourable weather conditions.

Inside the cabin, the front roof element is lined with black fabric, which, together with the black Alcantara interior trim of the Targa roof bar, gives the interior a harmonious appearance. The convertible-top compartment is situated behind the rear seats. This compartment, together with the transverse strut, serves to harmoniously integrate the stowed convertible top into the cabin. Even with the roof closed, the large, curved rear window allows plenty of light into the interior, providing a notable feeling of space.

Two model variants, exclusively with all-wheel drive

As with the prior model, the new Targa comes in two versions available exclusively with all-wheel drive. A seven-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard. The 911 Targa 4 is powered by a 3.4-litre, 350 hp (257 kW) flat-six engine. Equipped with the optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) double-clutch transmission and Sport Chrono Package, this model can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 175 mph. Fuel consumption on the NEDC is between 29.7 mpg and 32.5 mpg Combined, depending on transmission, which corresponds to CO₂ emissions between 223 and 204 g/km.

The top model is the 911 Targa 4S, which delivers 400 hp (294 kW) from a displacement of 3.8 litres. This model reaches a top speed of 184 mph and, with the PDK and Sport Chrono package options specified, is able to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 4.4 seconds. Fuel consumption on the NEDC is between 28.2 mpg and 30.7 mpg, depending on transmission, which corresponds to CO₂ between 237 and 214 g/km. These figures place the model on a par with the high standard set by the 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet models in terms of engine and road performance, as well as efficiency. Furthermore, both sports cars are certified for compliance with the Euro 6 emissions standard.

The new 911 Targa models are available to order from Porsche Centres in the UK and Ireland from today, with first cars arriving in showrooms in May. The 911 Targa 4 is priced from £86,281, the 911 Targa 4S priced from £96,316. In Ireland, the Targa 4 is priced from €153,162, and the Targa 4S from €175,213.

Standard equipment on each model includes leather interior, sports seats, automatic climate control, Bi-Xenon headlights, 7-inch colour touch-screen Porsche Communication Management with satellite navigation, digital radio, a universal audio interface offering MP3 connectivity, Porsche Stability Management (PSM), Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive and a three-year warranty.

The 911 Targa 4S adds 20-inch alloy wheels, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) and Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with rear limited slip differential, in addition to the power advantage of the larger 3.8-litre engine.

Fitted to every 911 is a Porsche Vehicle Tracking System (VTS), a sophisticated vehicle security package approved to Thatcham Category 5 standard, and customers will also be able to explore the potential of their new car by participating in a complimentary course at the Porsche Experience Centre, Silverstone.

The history of the Porsche 911 Targa

Porsche unveiled the 911 Targa, the world’s first ever ‘safety Cabriolet’, in September 1965 at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany. With its fixed roll-over bar, removable folding roof and hinged rear window, this new variant was developed primarily in response to increased safety legislation in America. The name ‘Targa’ comes from the famous Targa Florio race and since the mid-sixties has been synonymous with the open driving concept, which was new at the time.

Production of the vehicle began towards the end of 1966 with the market launch of the 911 Targa taking place in 1967. The Targa cost 1,400 Deutschmarks more than the Coupé. This roof concept was enhanced from one 911 generation to the next over a period of 27 years. During this time, this ‘semi-open’ variant acquired the status of a stand-alone vehicle concept in the Porsche range, becoming the model of choice for one in ten 911 buyers.

For the 1996 model year, Porsche presented a fully revised version of the 911 Targa (‘Type 993’). The entire roof was made of glass, with a sliding glass cover above the driver and front seat passenger that could be lowered and retracted beneath the hinged rear glass window.

Precisely 20 years after the last 911 Targa with the classic roll-over bar style (based on the ‘Type 964’) was discontinued, the latest ‘Type 991’ generation of the 911 Targa once again takes this unique design concept into the future.