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(Tue 18 Jul 06) Porsche has been making open-top Targa versions of the 911 for many years, but the new generation which goes on sale in November is a bit different. For the first time, four-wheel drive has become standard fitment on the Targa range.
There will be two models. The Targa 4 uses the 325bhp 3.6-litre engine, which pushes the rest of the car from rest to 62mph in 5.3 seconds. The Targa 4S has the 355bhp 3.8-litre unit and completes the same sprint in 4.9 seconds. Porsche is not one of those German companies which has stuck to the gentleman's agreement of limiting maximum speeds to 155mph, so the two cars can achieve 174mph and 179mph respectively. Even with Porsches, though, performance isn't everything, and the whole point of the Targa is - at is has always been - to enjoy wind-in-your-hair motoring. The new Targa's roof makes no impact on the 911's body shape, but it is made of two-ply tinted glass (weighing 1.9kg less than that of the current car) and can be opened in seven seconds by pressing a button and deploying two electric motors.
Once it's out of the way, a 0.45 square metre opening is revealed, and there's a wind deflector to keep turbulence to a minimum. When the roof is shut, a newly-developed sealing system keeps noise to a minimum, while a semi-translucent roller blind can be pulled over it to provide shade. When the range goes on sale on November 18, prices will be £70,320 for the Targa 4 and £77,370 for the 4S. Full leather interior, along with Porsche's vehicle tracking system and driving experience programme, are included in the cost. Porsche Gallery 21/06/06 News: More Power For Porsche Boxster Previous: Dieselmax Ready To Roll Next: Chrysler Sebring Debut |
