The roof mechanism is a beautiful piece of mechanical engineering and a joy to behold when it’s in operation.
As for performance on twisty Italian tarmac, this car acquits itself well, thanks to its “4” four-wheel-drive system that comes as standard. It can apportion up to 100 percent of available torque to the front or rear wheels as and when, in order to deliver secure handling under all conditions, even on slippery roads and in unpredictable weather.
Helping that along is the PDCC active anti-roll system, which gives the Targa an amazingly flat cornering attitude, despite the softer spring rates relative to hard-top 911s. The only hint that this is a “lesser” sports car against the coupe is a little more sluggishness on turn-in.
It’s pretty accomplished in the handling department, but that’s probably not the main reason why you would want a Targa. You probably want one to feel the wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the hairs on the nape of your neck tingle as the engine sings, while you “ignore” the admiring glances cast by pedestrians and other motorists as you cruise down Orchard Road.
And leisurely cruising is where this car really shines – the relatively soft suspension is exceptionally compliant, even over the poorly maintained roads in southern Italy where we spent much of our time in the test cars. Even big potholes resulted in just an audible thud (versus being jolted out of my seat), which speaks volumes of the vehicle’s suspension pliancy and chassis rigidity.
All in all, the Targa is nowhere near as nice to drive as the coupe, but that’s not really the point. Blessed with handsome, delectably retro styling, the new model is easily the best-looking car in the 911 range right now. It’s a standout Porsche in its own right. If dynamics are second to aesthetics in your book, I suggest skipping the 911 Cabriolet and going straight for the 911 Targa.
2014 Porsche 911 Targa 4 3.4 (A)
ENGINE 3436cc, 24-valves, flat-6
MAX POWER 350bhp at 7400rpm
MAX TORQUE 390Nm at 5600rpm
GEARBOX 7-speed dual-clutch with manual select
0-100KM/H 4.8 seconds
TOP SPEED 280km/h
CONSUMPTION 11.5km/L
2014 Porsche 911 Targa 4S 3.8 (A)
ENGINE 3800cc, 24-valves, flat-6
MAX POWER 400bhp at 7400rpm
MAX TORQUE 440Nm at 5600rpm
GEARBOX 7-speed dual-clutch with manual select
0-100KM/H 4.4 seconds
TOP SPEED 294km/h
CONSUMPTION 10.9km/L
Click here to read our feature about the Porsche 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet and 911 Targa 4.
Click here to read about a photographer who owns a 1991 Porsche 911 Targa.
