16 January 2014

Porsche 911 Targa available to order

Porsche is presenting the latest addition to the iconic 911 sports coupé family, the 911 Targa at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit today, writes Trish Whelan.

This latest model is the first to combine state-of-the-art open roof technology with the distinctive coupé appearance.

Just like the original 911 Targa model, this new model features a characteristic wide bar in place of the B-Pillars aft of the doors, a moveable roof section above the driver and passenger, and a wrap-around near window, with no C-pillar. But the roof segment can be opened and closed at the push of a button. The fully automatic system stows the roof top behind the rear seats, providing a real spectacle.

The roof materials are as innovative as the concept itself. The premium quality fabric hood is stretched taut by the magnesium roof shell and panel bow. The three gills and 'Targa' lettering on the sides of the bar are inspired by the original 1965 Targa model.

Two versions are offered with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed manual transmission is fitted as standard. The 911 Targa 4 is powered by a 3.4, 350hp flat-six engine and can go from 0-100km/h in only 4.8 seconds. The top model is the Targa 4S is powered by a 3.8 engine which delivers 400hp.

These new 911 Targa models are available to order from Porsche Centres in Ireland and the UK from today with first cars arriving in showrooms in May. Here, the Targa 4 is priced from €153,162, and the 4S from €175,213.