Whenever you hear the name Porsche the image that first comes to mind likely is that of a 911. This rear-engine German is a true legend with a reputation for great handling and top-notch performance. Its design and reliability have inspired other car brands such as the Maserati MC20 and the Audi R8. The Porsche 911 comes with a variety of body styles including the Coupe, Convertible, and Targa. Coupled with great on-road performance the car also offers superior comfort and can be a superb daily driver. There are two Targa body styles namely the Targa 4 and the 911 Targa 4S both of which feature an all-wheel drive. Let’s take a look at the 911 Targa and see how this car sets itself apart from others in its space and why it may just be worth all of your $143,100.
The 2023 Porsche Targa 4S is an all-wheel drive, 4-seater, 2-door sportscar, rocking a 3.0 Liter Flat 6 gas-powered engine that gives out 443 hp and 390lb-ft of torque. The 4S is mated to an 8-speed automated manual transmission. Manufacturer claims say that the 4S will move from 0-60mph in just 3.6 seconds. With a 17.6-gallon fuel tank, the 2023 Targa 4S will do 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway, giving a combined average fuel consumption of 20 MPG. And if you want to bring your luggage along, you get up to 4.6 cubic feet of cargo space. You can get the 911 Targa in 17 different exterior colors and 26 different interior colors.
The 4S comes with a standard rear locking differential as well as a standard center and rear limited differential. It also has a 4-wheel independent suspension and a front and rear stabilizer bar both of which come as standard. Overall, the car is 177.9 inches in length with 79.2 inches of width with the side mirrors open. As for the wheelbase the 4S offers 96.5 with a total height of 51.2 inches. So how does the 2023 Porsche 911 4S perform in a turn? We are talking about a turning circle of 36.8 feet.
The Targa line first came out in the sixties but it wasn’t until 2006 when the first Targa 4S was added to Porsche’s 911 trim levels. It came with not just a bigger engine but extra features that included hatch-style access two glass panels and a power shade. The engine was a 3.8 Liter that gave out 355 hp which was an extra 30 over the standard Targa line. This first model went into production from 2006 to 2008. Then in July of 2008, the 4S received a new design upgrade with a brand-new panoramic glass roof. While it had a 3.8-liter engine like the previous model, the new engine was even more powerful cranking up 385 hp.
At the North American Auto Show in 2014, Porsche revealed the new Targa 4S but this model unlike its predecessor was no convertible. It featured a more outwards rear windscreen and a laminated front windscreen. This new Targa was based on the Porsche Carrera 4S platform and featured a 7-speed automatic mated to a flat 6 that could produce 400hp. It also had an all-wheel drive that gave it amazing traction even in snowy conditions. This model of the 4S was replaced in 2020 with a Targa that was also available with a 7-speed manual. 2020 was yet another year to showcase a revamp in the design of the previous Targa 4S. The new Porsche 911 Targa 4S featured a panoramic rear windscreen and this time didn’t come with a C-pillar. There was also a brand-new front side and bumper. The flat 6 now came with a turbocharger which further pushed up the output to 450hp and was mated to an 8-speed auto PDK transmission.
The Targa line has some obvious similarities such as the automatic roof system which begs the question, is it worth spending extra for the 4S where you could go for the Targa 4? Well, while the Targa 4 offers amazing performance and great driving experience, the 4S packs an even heavier punch. The 3.0 Liter boxer engine in the Targa 4 produces 379 horsepower and 331 lb-feet of torque, while that in the 4S gives out a whopping 443hp and 390lb-ft of torque. According to manufacturer specs, the Targa 4 can move from 0-60 in 4.2 seconds. Not bad, but the 4S can reach similar speeds in 3.6 seconds.
The 2023 Porsche 911 Targa 4S has a 3.0 Liter Flat 6, 24 Valve motor with a double overhead cam tucked neatly at the rear. This petrol-powered direct injection engine with variable timing can produce 443 horsepower and 390-pound feet of torque. Able to haul up to 909 lbs, it’s mated to an 8-speed automated manual transmission. With its all-wheel-drive system, the 4S can launch itself from 0-60 in only 3.6 seconds. The four-wheel independent suspension helps keep the wheels on the ground making it a breeze during those high-speed tight turns.
Then there are the stabilizer bars at the front and back to further keep the vehicle on the ground. This is complemented by the rear locking differential that ensures power is sent to the right wheels even on uneven road surfaces and prevents wheel spinning and power loss. While the interior space is sufficient, the 4-way power driver seat and the 2-way seat adjustment allow the driver to find their perfect sitting position. Not forgetting the height-adjustable driver’s seat. The multilevel seat heating feature adds to the driving experience and enhances comfort levels.
The 2023 Porsche Targa 4S is an eye-catcher slash head-turner slash neck breaker with its stunning exterior that regardless of all the modern elements still retains bits and pieces of its history. One of the features that immediately stands out is the curved rear windscreen that pops outwards. There is no missing that signature silver B-pillar. Let’s not forget the Targa 4S soft top roof disappearing act that makes one, for a moment, think it’s a transformer. The 2023 Porsche Targa may have that traditional 911 body style but there are plenty of differences with among the 911 line. There is also a new design for the bumper and air scoops which on this particular model seem smaller. Buyers can choose from up to 17 different colors for the exterior from ruby start neo, jet black metallic to a racing yellow.
But how does the 4S look on the inside? Speaking of colors, you can choose from up to 26 different interior colors. The leather interior comes as standard and the car also has a height adjusting feature for the seats. What’s more, the seats come with a 4-way power driver as well as a 2-way manual seat adjustability. The seats also come with multi-level heating further improving driving experience and comfort. There is also a split-folding rear seat as standard. Some cool interior features include a total of 8 speakers that support a 150-watt stereo with AM and FM. You also get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, electric power steering, and cruise control.
The 2023 Porsche 911 Targa 4S starts at just over $144, 000. You are probably thinking, at this price you could get a car like an Audi R8 or a BMW 8 series 840i both of which boast bigger engines and more horsepower. But while you could have a solid argument, there is one thing that you’d miss out on and that is Porsche's renowned reliability and performance. And the 4S offers no less. Plus, you also get to enjoy an average of 20mpg which is a far cry from what you get with most car models in the space. If you are in the market for a 911 Targa 4S exotic car trader can help you narrow down your search. With ECT, you can make an offer and the seller will get back to you within 24 hours. Don’t worry of you are in a different state as ECT simplifies the shipping process for you and will get the car delivered straight to you.
The name Porsche 911 brings images of a neatly designed sports car that has retained its signature look for decades. And as if that’s not enough performance and reliability have always been a hallmark of the brand. Then Targa 4S is no different only that it takes design to a whole new level. From the nearly 450 hp powertrain under the rear hood to the transformer-like roof convertibility, to the outward popping rear windscreen behind a silver B-frame, the 4S is designed to turn heads wherever it goes.
Exotic Car Trader is the fastest growing marketplace built specifically for automotive enthusiasts. Click below to learn how you can sell your car with us.
LEARN MORE
