What are the differences between the 911 Targa and Carrera?

[CourtneyAnn]

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 are analyzed as follows: In terms of body structure: The Targa is a soft-top convertible, while the Carrera is a hard-top coupe. In terms of 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.

[StAdrian]

As a seasoned car enthusiast who loves tinkering with automobiles, I believe the biggest difference between the 911 Carrera and Targa lies in their roof designs. The Carrera is a classic hardtop sports car, delivering pure and stable driving dynamics, making it ideal for those who prioritize speed. On the other hand, the Targa features a removable roof function, retaining its iconic T-shaped crossbar—reminiscent of classic models from nostalgic films—offering a semi-open-top driving experience without the annoyance of wind noise. The historical background is quite interesting too; the Targa was originally an innovative solution to the U.S. convertible ban and later became a signature feature. Performance-wise, both share nearly identical engines and chassis, though the Targa is slightly heavier by a few dozen kilograms, making it a tad less agile in corners—though this is hardly noticeable in daily driving. In terms of practicality, the Targa’s roof is easy to remove and reinstall, providing reliable waterproofing in rain, but its more complex structure requires extra maintenance care. If driving excitement is your priority, go for the Carrera; if you prefer a retro flair with added practicality, the Targa is the better match.

[LeLandon]

I've been driving a Porsche daily for many years and have firsthand experience with the differences between the 911 Carrera and Targa. The Carrera is a standard hardtop, delivering a crisp and direct driving feel. The Targa's removable roof is quite convenient—you can open it up for sunlight while still having a fixed roll bar for safety, avoiding the noise of a full convertible. In terms of practicality, both offer similar space, but you need to be careful not to bump your head when getting into the Targa. Driving-wise, the Targa feels slightly heavier with a subtle lag in acceleration, though the difference is negligible on city roads. The Targa is pricier—whether it's worth it depends on your preference. If you often take friends for rides and want a bit of novelty without the hassle, it's a great choice. Maintenance isn't much harder; just keep the roof clean to prevent dust buildup. Overall, the differences are minor, but the details offer distinct experiences.

[MaverickDella]

Bro, when choosing a 911, the Carrera and Targa options are both awesome. The Carrera has a sporty and sleek look, sharp handling, and lightning-fast acceleration. The Targa, on the other hand, has a retro vibe with its openable roof and iconic T-bar, making it super cool and turning heads on the street. Performance-wise, they're identical—zero to sixty is no problem—but the Targa is a bit more expensive for that extra cool factor. For daily driving, there's no difference, except the Targa offers a more amazing light atmosphere with the roof open, and safety isn't compromised either. For young people, choosing the Targa adds a stylish edge and social appeal.