What are the differences between the 911 Targa and Carrera?
3 Answers
Taking the 2017 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS 3.0T and the 2017 Carrera 4 GTS 3.0T as examples, the differences between the two models are analyzed as follows: 1. Body Structure: The Targa is a soft-top convertible, while the Carrera is a hard-top coupe. 2. Body Dimensions: The Targa measures 4528mm in length, 1852mm in width, and 1291mm in height. The Carrera measures 4528mm in length, 1852mm in width, and 1284mm in height. There is a slight difference in height between the two.
I've worked on many 911s before, and the biggest differences between the Targa and Carrera are the iconic roll bar and rear glass window. The Targa looks like a convertible but actually has a fixed glass roof, with that distinctive metal roll bar in the middle. In terms of driving, the Targa's body is over 100 kg heavier than the standard Carrera coupe and has a slightly higher center of gravity, so you can feel subtle differences when cornering. However, the new electric soft-top design is very convenient now—just press a button and it retracts in 9 seconds. Additionally, the Targa's rear window is an independent hatchback style, offering less continuous visibility compared to the Carrera. In terms of practicality, the Carrera is more pure, but the Targa's classic design is absolutely eye-catching on the road.
As someone who frequently commutes in a 911, I find the Targa particularly suitable for city driving. It offers more security with its roll bar compared to the fully open Cabriolet, while providing a greater sense of openness than the hardtop. Last week, I tested the new Targa 4S on the highway, and the wind noise control with the top open was better than expected. Rear passengers also didn't have to worry about strong winds hitting their faces. The Carrera hardtop, on the other hand, feels more cramped in terms of rear headroom. However, the Carrera's rear lines are more fluid, especially when viewing the curvature of the rear windshield through the rearview mirror—the Targa's three-piece glass design lacks this aesthetic. There's little difference in storage space between the two; both can fit a carry-on suitcase in the front trunk.