Hi Guys,
I'm back! I've always like the Targas, but everyone tells me to stay away from them and go Coupe.
Basically the glass roof mechanism is too fragile and VERY expensive to repair, if any work is needed. Also, it seems that they leak on medium to heavy rains.....
What do you guys say about it? Should I really forget the Targas, and focus only on the Coupes?
Thank you again!
Bola.

 

There was a thread on targa vs. cab just last week that had some good info. When I was looking for my car, I debated a little on cab vs. coupe, but the targa was out because it didn't provide that open cab feeling and I was also worried about the added complexity and weight. After reading some of the rave reviews from a couple targa owners, there are certainly some big fans out there and I'd love to have one if I could add another 993 to the garage. I think they have very nice lines compared to the cab and even the coupe to some extent.

 

Another thing to consider about the Targa is that they are very rare to find as a 6 speed..most of the ones i've seen are Tiptronic. So..if you are looking for a 6 speed..might be tough. Good luck either way!

 

I have a 96 Targa, and I love it! I had a 996 C4 cab, and 997 C2S and this is by far my favorite car. There's just something about driving with a glass roof.......which I haven't had any issues with (yet)

it did take me a while to find a 6 speed (lots of tips out there), but finally found one, Adventurine Green w/two tone tan/black interior & sport seats. Best 911 I've ever owned!

 

I'd sure get one - my sunroof seems inadequate in some respects, yet a full cab would buffet and scald me.

 

I do not know about the 'leaks'... I have not had any issues but then it never rains up here in Oregon..... I do not think leaks are 'normal', an adjustment might be in order for a leaky top. I understand the roof can expensive to repair if it completley fails ..... but there are maintenance items that should be done periodically to the rails to keep the top tracking properly, see recent post.

Which of the 993's don't have some issues or risk of ownership? We own them for pleasure and a Targa just enhances it all!

As I have posted before... Targas ROCK!

 

I love mine. If 6-speed Targas are generally rare, I wonder just how rare are 1998 Targa 6-speeds?

 

I've had no problems with my roof at all. I looked for close to two years to find the right combo of low miles, 6 speed and color. I compromised a bit on color but don't regret it. When I was looking 6 speeds weren't that hard to find (except '98s which I think are very rare....FYI McQueen). There just aren't that many targas so be prepared to be a bit flexible but don't jump at a car just because it's a targa with a 6 sped; wait for a solid car with a properly working roof. You'll save yourself a great deal of aggrevation.

 

love that Targa....no problems with rain if adjusted correctly and like all things German, can be expensive if it breaks but maintain it and you shouldnt have issues, its really well engineered.

GO Targa if you want more than a sunroof for open air, something thats unique, but a Cab is too much(I didnt get nearly as much use from my Cab as I do the Targa roof which closes in 10 secs if its too hot, too cold or I get a phone call). if it was a weekend only car I might do a CAB but I use it all the time and find the Targa awesome and would get another.

my only complaint is the shade mechanism is finicky so I just dont use it.

 

The sunshade is something I almost never use. Mine works fine but the glass is made to reflect the heat so the sunshade is something you can easily live without. That said, if it's not working perfectly it can be useful in the negotiations.

 

IMHO, the Targa is a very unique driving experience.
The Targa top was the precursor to today's Panorama roof systems and quite ahead of its time.
I really enjoy driving my wife's 993 Targa.

 

My Targa has high miles, but the roof still works perfectly. No leaks, but some whistling at speed. I've read about adjustments, but I'm afraid I'll jinx it.

 

Wasn't an option for me, as Porsche never made a 993 Targa with AWD. If there was a 'Targa 4' option and it had the newer style top whereby you can open the rear window from the rear like a hatchback, I would be all over it. That vehicle is called a 997!

 

Thank you for your comments, guys. You're a real enthusiastic bunch!
Let's hope my negotiations bear good fruits.
I'll keep you posted.
regards,
Bola.

 

Agreed.
If the current 997 Targa 4S had a dry sump motor and an interior that didn't make me sick, it would be "the Porsche to own if you could only have one".

That having been said, the 993 Targa is pretty damned nice.