It’s a long standing joke amongst auto writers that the Porsche 911 never really changes. It’s always been an elite sports car, and it’s looked more or less the same for decades.
That’s overstated nonsense since the 911 evolved through the same technological revolutions that all super cars have seen over the years — even if its exterior styling really has remained remarkably consistent.
The 2014 Porsche 911 Targa making its American debut at NAIAS 2014 in Detroit not only maintains that traditional coupe look – it’s relying on it as a selling point.
Porsche introduced two new models with the 911 Targa 4 and 911 Targa 4S. The original 911 Targa hit in 1965, and this remake includes distinctive throwbacks like the Targa roof bar, a movable front roof section and a wraparound rear window.
In keeping with modern Porsche design, both 911 Targa models come in AWD, with wider rear track and body frame. The Targa(s) also pack Porsche Traction Management (PTM), found in all 911 all-wheel-drive models — powered by a 3.4-liter 6 cylinder engine producing 350 hp, a zero to 60 time of 4.2 seconds and a top track speed of 183 mph.
Porsche lovers who want the most modern technology in a 1960s throwback frame will need between $101,600 and $116,200 to take a Targa home, depending on trim level.
