The Porsche 993 was launched in late 1993 to replace the 964 series, with significant technical improvements and for the first time a radical styling departure from all previous 911s.
Unlike previous generations, it was initially only available in coupe or cabriolet configuration, both with manual or switchable Tiptronic transmission, the latter being more popular when new.
The Targa had very much been part of the 911 line up through the 60s,70s,80s and early 90s, however, featured a roof design that had hardly been altered since conception and was beginning to feel decidedly archaic when specified on a 1990s 964 model. The 993 Targa launched for the 1996 model year, not only featured the powerful new 285bhp air cooled Varioram engine and drivetrain of the revised Carrera 2 coupe variants, it also featured an all new electric glass roof system, that not only retracted to give a greater feeling of open air space than a conventional coupe with a sunroof, but also made the interior a light and airy place to be with it closed too. The appearance was unique, the 2-piece split rim alloys manufactured by Speedline in particular, differentiating the Targa further from the Coupe. Only available for the final two years of air-cooled 911 production, the 993 is a unique example of the Targa 911 concept today, with all subsequent models fitted with this retracting roof system being water cooled.
This Example
Supplied by AFN Guilford on the 1st of August 1996, it was specified with Tiptronic transmission and finished in Iris Blue with a marble grey leather interior and included full electric option seats. It has currently covered just 31,300 miles and is supplied with a fully documented maintenance history with both OPC Centres and Porsche specialists including its original order for and all subsequent invoices from new.
This is a car we know well, as we first purchased it from its original owner back in 2005 and know each owner bar one since. Regular maintenance together with careful ownership by each of its custodians has ensured this 993 Targa still presents in exceptional condition throughout today.
Our Thoughts
If you are considering a modern classic as a daily driver, the 993 combines an old-world charm with bullet proof build quality, together with a compact footprint and analogue driving experience, that is missing in today’s cars.
Purists will argue that a 911 should always have a manual gearbox. However, anyone living inside the M25 will almost certainly find a Tiptronic more appealing. The switchable gearbox can be operated from the steering wheel, allowing for spirited driving when allowed, whilst when the fully automatic mode is selected, it’s perfect for the typical driving found on your average city ring road at rush hour and we think suits the relaxed style of the Targa perfectly.
With other features such as power steering, air-conditioning and ABS brakes, it makes a happy companion in today’s modern traffic. Additionally, unlike most sports cars, it has ample storage too, making it ideal for a wonderful cross continent, mile munching road trip.
With the roof fully retracted, and that distinctive air-cooled soundtrack just behind you, it is also perfect for a gentle summers evening drive to your local pub.
As an all-round daily sports car, this 993 Targa Tiptronic ticks a lot of boxes, and all in the knowledge you are driving something special, and a far sounder investment than a modern equivalent too.
