Been on the lookout for a nice 997.1 C2S and came a cross a local Targa 4S with the options I want in the color combo I prefer... I find myself tempted by it...

The intended use for this car is primarily as a summer transportation to various activities with some (rare) DD duty, lots of time I take both my kids with me (under 10yo). I do like to DE my p-cars 3-5 times a year in blue with no aspirations to advance groups or race - just have fun for a day. I dont expect to mod my next car for the track. I live in the NE.

My previous car for this role was a 996C2.

I can totally see enjoying that big open roof in the summer but worried about the T4S on the track, its AWD and heavier than a regular 4S or 2S.

What does the gang here think? does tracking a T4S semi-regularly make no sense at all even when its just for fun? will I get tired of the heavy cow really fast?

 

If your not trying to race against other cars or their times, the T4S will be just fine, it just handles a bit differently, thats all.

 

GO FOR IT. ITS WHAT YOU WANT.

 

Pull the trigger!

 

how's the body flex on the targas (relative to Cabrios), particularly on track?

otherwise, if it's what you want, and most of its use will be on the street...buy it

 

Can't comment about the track. However the Targa is the best of both worlds. I continue to get looks/comments of what Porsche I'm driving ! I love driving her.

 

I had a T4S and autocrossed it a number of times. The difference in performance between a T4S and any other 997.1 is insignificant IMO, and unnoticeable for anyone except an expert driver. I had a ton of fun, and didn't find the handling and capability any different than my current C2S cab. My biggest problem, in both cars, is keeping the street tires stuck to the pavement, but don't do it enough to warrant the cost of a set of R compound tires for autocross events. It sounds like you are like me: you just want to have fun and try to improve your own times without competing against everyone else out there.

The only negative to a Targa IMO is the limited rear visibility when the top is pulled back, which is why I seldom opened it. I just liked the bright and airy interior provided by the glass top. And, I think the Targa is a wonderful looking car, especially in some colors. Mine was GT silver, which provided a nice contrast to the black looking top and rear window, with the stainless trim strips.

If you like it, get it!

BTW, pay no attention to the numerous comments about it being a "heavy cow". It is lighter than a C4S cab, and I doubt in a blind test if most owners could tell the difference between a C4S coupe or cab, and a T4S. Also, except for the front end nimbleness of RWD cars, few people would be able detect any performance difference due to the slight weight premium in the AWD cars. They are ALL fun.

 

As always I concure with Ken. With the roof open you will lose some visibility. However with some rear view mirror adjustment and using your side mirrors its easily fixed. Well worth the inconvience.

 

is there a difference in headroom between a T4s ans a regular coupe?

where is the "pop the hatch" button for the rear glass?

thanks

 

The hatch release is between the trunk and engine compartment release buttons. The sliding roof is controlled by button like the one for a cab, on center console.

 

Targa roof will throw up its unique symphony of creek and rattles...mostly cured by regular maintenance including cleaning and dry lubrication. Be prepared for this especially when buying used. Mine rattled like like a till until I lubricated the whole track system and greased it.

 

But it! I think the current design of the Targa may go the way of the Dodo bird and if you like this design, jump on it!

 

Owned a 993 and 996 T and wish I had put one of them away...

No convert or coupe can match the feel. Cold weather, no problem, it's still open and airy feeling. The sun shines in...

I know some have complained about noise, and I'm a rattle freak. Have traded cars for rattles that I could not stand. Just wasn't an issue with my samples.

Hey, Dan. What do you think they'll replace it with? Or do you think they will go coupe or cab, that's it?

 

The one I have not had yet,they should make a TT Targa

 

Overall, the Targa C4S is an absolute blast...an extremely versatile, all weather sports car..or the closest thing to that. Mine is going to be a keeper because I suspect in 20 - 30 years, these cars going to be classics.