Porsche 911 Targa - 1997

This 1997 Porsche 993 Targa is a very good example of the last air-cooled 911 model, presented with an impressive service history and having only three private keepers from new. Under the rear engine cover is the 282bhp 3.6-litre flat-six, which drives the rear wheels via a four-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission, with steering wheel-mounted shift buttons. The odometer displays 132,400 miles. An original UK-market car, this Targa was first registered in August 1997. The current owner had an extremely thorough, no expense spared service costing over £9,000 this year to ensure peace of mind over the mechanical reliability of the car.
 
Finished in Arctic Silver over a light grey leather interior, it benefits from having the ‘VarioRam’ intake system, which provides a useful torque boost in the mid rev-range. The paint is in fair condition, the finish shows a few general signs of its age, including slight corrosion on the front panel by the windscreen and on the roof by the A-pillar, a small mark on the rear bumper as well as stone chips on the nose and the wheel arches, which is commensurate with the car’s age. The light lenses and external trims present well, though the bonnet badge’s enamel paint has worn away somewhat. The Targa’s namesake sliding glass roof is in outstanding order and works perfectly. This 911 rides on the correct set of 17-inch split-rim Speedline alloy wheels, which have previously been fully refurbished and are very smart, with only one minor kerb scuff on the rim of the rear passenger-side wheel. In the cabin, the seats and door cards are clad in light grey leather and present particularly well for their age. Both of the seats feature minor creasing to their surfaces, but are free of any rips, tears or substantial wear, with the only noticeable mark being a small blemish just above the driver’s electric seat controls. Ahead, the steering wheel is in great shape, and all of the interior plastics are in good order. The air conditioning system has had a new condenser fitted in the last 6 months and now blows cold, the other interior buttons and switches work as they should. The car will be accompanied by its original book pack and stamped service books, as well as its tool roll and jack.
 
Set apart from classic and present-day Targas alike by its unique sliding glass roof, this 993-generation Porsche 911 offers both coupe-like refinement and open-air enjoyment in one stylish package. This 993 Targa wants for only minor cosmetic to bring it up to a very good standard indeed, and could no doubt provide many more years of faithful service to its next owner.