911 Targa

By Julie Sinclair

September 2008

• Rating:
• Latest deal price: from £66,255 to £130,414

The appeal is clear to see! With a transparent sliding roof, the new 911 Targa really does offer the best of both worlds – the open-air thrills of a drop-top combined with the safety and refinement of a coupé.

Based on the all-wheel-drive 911 Carrera 4, this latest model features a number of upgrades including hew-look headlights and an LED lamp strip at the rear. Special chrome trim emphasises the roofline – unique to the newcomer – and draws attention to its Targa top.

The tinted lid keeps the cabin light and airy, but also cool, while the new electric operating system slots it neatly underneath the sloping rear screen in only seven seconds. However, to accommodate it, the C-pillar is a bit bulky, which compromises visibility slightly. The Targa top hasn’t compromised the 911’s outstanding driving dynamics – the hi-tech four-wheel drive offers sensational grip and stability. There’s lots of feedback through the wheel and the flat-six motor emits a trademark howl. Engine options comprise a 340bhp 3.6 and a 380bhp 3.8-litre S. For an additional £2,388, you get the rapid-shifting seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox.

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