2009 Porsche 911 Targa 4S



targa4s  What is it?
The new glass roofed 911 which, for the time being, completes the roll out of the second generation of 997 series of 911s. Available in either Targa 4 or Targa 4S guise the new model is based on the Carrera 4/4S and carries over that model’s mechanical running gear and wider bodyshell. It does, of course, also feature the retractable glass roof that was first seen on the 993 variant and carried over onto the 996. And yes, the rear window still opens in a convenient hatchback style.

So it’s a 911 with a glass sunroof?
Yes. And no. The cynics will see it as a way for Porsche to charge an additional £5000 over a C4/C4S for the pleasure of lightening up a 911’s cabin, but as with the previous model it does bring more to the party than another way to get suntan in a posh Beetle.

How does it drive, then?
Despite weighing 30 kilos more than the equivalent four-wheel drive 911 coupe, and with that weight penalty sitting high above your head, the Targa still delivers the real-deal 911 driving experience. It communicates with a clarity and rewards like few other cars on-sale today, and the tactility of the controls – from the steering to the brakes - are a delight to get involved with.

And despite the all-new, direct fuel injection engines not being as soulful as their predecessors, there is no hiding from the fact that they still deliver a serious kick to the kidneys when you open the taps and head deep into the higher echelons of the engine’s power band.

Is there anything else?
As with the 911 Cabriolet the Targa is best suited to the new seven-speed PDK transmission, suiting the driving style you instinctively settle into when you slide behind the wheel.

The opening rear window makes it the most practical 911 you can buy, too, but the sharper line of the C-pillar does rob the 911 shape of its distinctive side profile.

Verdict
An excellent mix of coupe dynamics and Cabriolet thrills. But it’s not cheap.

Specification
911 Targa 4S
Engine: 3800cc, flat-six water-cooled, DFI
Max Power: 385hp @ 6500rpm
Max Torque: 310lb ft @ 4400rpm
Weight: 1540kg
Transmission: 6-speed manual gearbox, four-wheel drive, LSD
Max Speed: 183mph
0-62mph: 4.9 seconds
Price: £80,270


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