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I am struggling with my first Porsche build. My max budget is around $150-$155K.
Originally, I was thinking Cabriolet because I have never owned an open top vehicle and believe that I would really enjoy it. I have the windows down\sunroof open on my other vehicles at nearly every opportunity. However, as I look at the pictures of the Cab, the more the overall shape bothers me (especially when compared to the coupe). I also am slightly concerned about the “flashiness” of the cab. It seems the most “look at me” of all the 911 versions.
I then decided to consider a coupe, primarily to preserve the classic 911 shape. My C2S coupe build (PN4PTU87) is relatively modest, but the coupe seems to offer several distinct advantages: cheapest ($11K less than the cabriolet), lightest, classic 911 silhouette, and largest back seat (I plan to use a car seat for kids). However, I wonder if I would end up missing an open air experience.I also sometimes think the coupe, while undeniably classic, is somewhat nondescript.
Finally, I began looking at a Targa 4S (PN3TVC84). The Targa seems to be the “best of both worlds” in that it retains the classic 911 shape, while still allowing for top down driving. However, the Targa is the most expensive (near\at my max budget), hardest to get (dealer estimates 1 year to delivery), requires AWD (I have heard the 4 wheel drive is less engaging than the C2S), and has the smallest back seat (given the Targa bar). I am also concerned about the wind buffeting that some report is an issue. Overall, the Targa is certainly unique, and perhaps the prettiest, but could be said to be the “worst” variant from an objective sports car perspective.
Any opinions \ suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Targas are almost too trendy right now. I'm biased with a 991.1 4S cab, but I load my little ones in the back with the Bubble Bum boosters and they joke they're on a roller coaster. Our physician network recently organized a drive-through flu shot clinic on a 75 degree day, my wife and I still talk about what a great experience it was driving through with the top down. Nurses got a good laugh and we have a picture our kids will appreciate many years from now when this pandemic is a distant memory.
Targa is a great choice, but some things to think about:
-Porsche is quoting extraordinary production times on these cars, for now---but in the end they retain a high % of their resale which might be worth it.
-If your budget is $155K that would either be a very lightly optioned S or a Targa 4 with more amenities....various opinions about on this subject but my choice would be for the latter.
-All Targa's are always going to be all wheel drive, and are just as engaging as the rear wheel drive---just have a little different character---and are supremely capable.
Just my two cents.
Truth to tell, when you open the sunroof and put down the windows of the coupe, the open air experience is pretty similar to what you get with the Targa with its roof down. Keep in mind that in addition to the negatives you list, the Targa is the heaviest 992 by a significant margin; it has a higher center of gravity, so handling is affected; unlike the cab, you can't put the top up or down when the car is moving, which can be a real issue if you have frequent, sudden showers in your area. And yes, some reviewers have noted that the AWD on the 992 results in less responsive steering. (This is not to say that the C4 or C4S steers poorly, but many feel that the 2 has the best feel overall). I couldn't justify paying a premium for all of these limitations. If you love the look of the coupe, reconsider getting it.
The way the market has been on these cars, the question really is can you get an allocation? Because it’s very difficult to get any 992 allocation within a reasonable time frame without a significant mark up. Any Targa model is even more rare. So, your question may be moot if you’re not able to find an actual allocation.
if you do have an allocation, I think Targas are great and they have even better resale value. The first real 911 I remember seeing was a black Targa my 4th grade teacher got. She parked it right on the street every day and I could see that car from the classroom window. So awesome that a public school teacher chased her dreams and bought a sweet Porsche.
I’m on my second Targa. I’d definitely recommend one if you want a little bit of coupe and convertible. And everyone has an opinion, but I love the look. I would definitely try to get a 4S to help compensate with the additional weight. One advantage is that the rear window offers better rearward visibility. At $155k you will need to be strategic with your options but it’s doable. Mine was $166k and I did not get PDCC or rear wheels steering. I don’t notice or miss it. It’s not a track car.
As far as buffeting, with top and windows down, I don’t experience any buffeting. If I have the top down and the windows up, I do experience some buffeting, but cracking the windows mitigates it. I had the same problem with my C7 and discovered that little trick. The buffeting is much less an issue as it was with my 991.2 Targa GTS.
I am struggling with my first Porsche build. My max budget is around $150-$155K.
Will be hard to spec a Targa for that price point.
Originally Posted by F1Fan2010
...and has the smallest back seat (given the Targa bar).
The size of the back seat in any 911 configuration shouldn't be a consideration. Consider all of them as "2 seater with some storage behind the seats".
I'd say go for the Targa if you can swing it. That being said, if you manage to get an allocation you may find your "max budget" will grow by $20K or so. That's how my $130K C2S turned into a $150K spec (and I'm still 1 month away from order lock!).
Whatever you get, I'm sure you're going to love it.
10-05-2021 | 10:17 PM
Talk me into (or out of) a Targa
