Porsche 911 Targa (997) Targa 4S 3.8 (355 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.7 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 4.2 / 5
Value 3.7 / 5
Performance 4.5 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Porsche 911:

The Porsche 911 model series is a family of two-door, high performance rear-engine sports cars, introduced in September 1964 by Porsche of Stuttgart, Germany, and now in its eighth generation. All 911s have a rear-mounted flat-six engine, and usually 2+2 seating, except for special 2-seater variants. Originally, 911s had air-cooled engines, and torsion bar suspension, but the 911 has been continuously changed and improved across generations. Though the 911 core concept has remained largely unchanged, water-cooled engines were introduced with the 996 series in 1998, and front and rear suspension have been replaced by Porsche-specific MacPherson suspension up front, and independent multi-link rear suspension....(Read more on Wikipedia)

Targa (997) Overview:

Porsche 911 (Targa (997)). With 400 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. With a weight of 1535 kg, it falls in the mid‑range. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. Acceleration is excellent (0–100 km/h in 4.9 s). The top speed reaches 288 km/h. A semi-convertible with a removable roof section and a full-width roll bar behind the seats. Seating for 4 makes it ideal for daily use.

Targa 4S 3.8 (355 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 5 stars

Performance Verdict

The ultimate Targa performance with the 3.8-liter engine and manual gearbox, offering exhilarating acceleration and a highly rewarding driving experience.

Fuel Economy

Despite its higher power, the manual 4S maintains a respectable 11.8 l/100 km, showcasing efficient power delivery.

Best Use Case: Performance Driving / Enthusiast's Choice

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Iconic 911 design with unique Targa roof versatility
  • • Engaging driving dynamics and precise steering
  • • Excellent all-wheel-drive traction and stability
  • • High-quality interior materials and build
  • • Strong resale value for well-maintained examples

Cons:

  • • Higher running and maintenance costs compared to rivals
  • • Potential for M96/M97 engine issues (e.g., IMS bearing, bore scoring)
  • • Tiptronic S automatic transmission is less responsive than modern PDK
  • • Limited luggage space, typical for a sports car
  • • Firm ride quality may not appeal to all

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(Cabriolet (997): 2005 - 2008).

General:
Brand:Porsche
Model:911
Generation:Targa (997)
Modification (Engine):Targa 4S 3.8 (355 Hp)
Start of production:2006
End of production:2008
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Targa
Seats:4
Doors:2
Engine:
Power:355 Hp @ 6600 rpm.
Power per litre:92.8 Hp/l
Torque:400 Nm @ 4600 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:M97.01 [Same engine] More details about the engine M97.01
Engine displacement:3824
Number of cylinders:6
Engine configuration:Boxer
Fuel injection system:Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:8.5 l
Coolant:31 l
Engine layout:Rear, Longitudinal
Compression ratio:11.8:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:17.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:8.5 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - combined:11.8 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:4.9 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:4.9 sec
Maximum speed:288 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:4.3 kg/Hp, 231.3 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:3.8 kg/Nm, 260.6 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:4.7 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1535
Max. weight:1915
Max load:380
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:105 l
Fuel tank capacity:67 l
Size:
Length:4427 mm mm [Same length.]
Width:1852 mm mm [Same width.]
Height:1300 mm mm [Same height.]
Wheelbase:2350 mm mm [Same wheelbase.]
Minimum turning circle (turning diameter):10.9 m [above average]
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears6
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesVentilated discs [Best for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size235/35 ZR19; 305/30 ZR19
Wheel rims size8J x 19; 11J x 19
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson
Rear suspensionIndependent multi-link suspension

Every driver has a story. What’s yours with the Porsche 911?