2007 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Pictures, Specifications, Information

Porsche�s Targa concept, originally launched in 1966 and named after the storied Targa Florio race, was the first car of its type to offer all the driving sensations of a convertible without sacrificing the benefits of a solid roof. Then and now, the Targa continues to evoke a distinct cache unlike any other sports car, conveying serious sports car performance with the free-spirited thrill of open-air motoring.

As with the previous Targa model, the most striking feature of the elegant sports car is the large, sliding-glass roof and glass rear hatch, which blend sleekly into the classic 911 lines while providing the Targa with its own unique personality. A polished, anodized aluminum trim strip runs the entire length of the roof frame, emphasizing the 911�s classic silhouette.

The glass roof is not just a styling exercise, however, as it also provides for a light, airy interior. Moreover, the electrically operated roof panel can be retracted at all vehicle speeds in only seven seconds, revealing a spacious 4.8 square-foot (0.45 m/sq.) opening. Made of specially tinted two-ply glass, the new Targa�s translucent top is 4.2 pounds (1.9 kg) lighter than its predecessor, and wind noise is kept low at higher road speeds by a newly developed sealing system. With the top open, turbulence within the cabin is also reduced by a wind deflector, encouraging open-roof motoring even at lower ambient temperatures. A semi-translucent, black-cloth sunblind provides protection from excessive sunlight, and both the glass roof and roller blind are operated by a rocker switch located on the center console.

Gas struts make it easy to open the upward-tilting rear window, providing access to over 8 cubic-feet (230 liters) of cargo capacity with the rear seats in the folded position. The tailgate can either be unlocked by a switch on the driver�s-side doorsill or by the remote control button on the key fob.

The 911 Targa 4 is powered by Porsche�s venerable flat-Six Boxer engine, delivering 325 horsepower from 3.6 liters. The Targa 4 will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds (0-100 km/h, 5.3 sec.) and reach a top test-track speed of 174 mph (280 km/h). The more powerful Targa 4S variant features a 3.8-liter engine producing 355 horsepower. This model sprints from 0 to 60 mph in only 4.7 seconds (0-100 km/h, 4.9 sec.), and has a top test-track speed of 179 mph (288 km/h).

Thanks to Porsche�s VarioCam� Plus intake-valve control system, the Targa 4 develops maximum torque of 273 lb.-ft. at 4250 rpm. The 3.8-liter mill in the Targa 4S provides 295 lb.-ft. of torque at 4600 rpm. In both of the new Targa models, power is routed via a standard six-speed manual gearbox with short, precise shift throws. Optionally, customers can choose Porsche�s well-known five-speed Tiptronic� S automatic transmission, which allows gear changes via rocker switches mounted on the steering-wheel spokes.

As with the Coupe and Cabriolet versions of the Carrera 4 and 4S, power is transmitted to the pavement by a standard all-wheel drive system featuring a viscous, multi-plate clutch. Depending on driving conditions, the all-wheel-drive setup distributes between 5- and 40-percent of the engine�s torque to the front wheels. The all-wheel-drive system ensures well-balanced proportioning of power in corners during spirited driving and improves traction on wet or slippery road surfaces.