We use cookies to make the site work and, with your permission, to analyse usage and improve our marketing. You can change your preferences at any time.
© 2026 - Octane Automotive BV
© 2026 - Octane Automotive BV
The Porsche 911 Targa has been in continuous production since 1965, making it the oldest open-top 911 specification. Introduced as a safety response to the stricter American convertible regulations of the late 1960s, the Targa was an engineering solution: a 911 with removable roof and a fixed roll-over bar that became a visual highlight in its own right. Across six generations the Targa has retained its character, with two important changes: the sliding glass roof of the 993, 996, and 997, and the return to the classic Targa bar design on the 991 and 992 (now with integrated retractable glass system). A 911 Targa is not sold to just any buyer; it is passed on to someone who knows the Targa tradition and values the difference between the classic Targa bar and the sliding glass system.
The Porsche 911 Targa was unveiled in 1965 as a response to expected American safety regulations for convertibles. Porsche chose an innovative solution: a 911 with a removable roof panel above the driver and passenger seats, combined with a fixed roll-over bar in the middle of the body. The bar was visually emphasised with brushed stainless steel trim (later in factory-installed black). This configuration remained on the G-Model Targa until 1989, where the concept was preserved in its most classic form. For collectors of classic 911s a well-documented G-Model Targa with original paint and proven working roof system is a valued specification, particularly in rare factory colours.
The 964 Targa was the last 911 Targa with the original removable-panel configuration. The car retained the classic Targa bar and removable roof panel, but received the modern 964 chassis with coil springs, ABS, and the 3.6-litre engine. Production was more limited than the Carrera 2 and 4 Cabriolets of the same period. For 964 collectors who value the classic Targa configuration, the 964 Targa is an interesting combination of modern engineering with traditional open-top configuration. Well-documented examples with Porsche Classic confirmation and original colour trade in a separate price class.
In 1995 Porsche broke with thirty years of Targa tradition. The 993 Targa introduced an entirely new concept: instead of a removable roof panel the car received a sliding glass roof that retracted under the rear windscreen when opened. The fixed roll-over bar disappeared; visually the 993 Targa became a coupé with a large opening glass roof. This concept continued with the 996 Targa (2002-2004) and the 997 Targa (2006-2012). For some Targa purists this change was controversial: the visual identity of the Targa bar disappeared. For other buyers the sliding glass system was attractive for year-round usability and the coupé silhouette. The 993 Targa has become increasingly valued by collectors in recent years due to its unique position as the only air-cooled sliding-glass Targa.
With the 991 Targa in 2014, Porsche returned to the classic Targa bar architecture. The car received a polished aluminium roll-over bar in the middle, a tribute to the original 911 Targa, combined with a complex integrated retractable-glass system that lifts the rear glass and folds the fabric roof inward. The mechanism was technically impressive and brought back the visual identity of the classic Targa with the usability of modern roof engineering. The 992 Targa (2020-present) built on the same concept with refined engineering and new colour configurations. In 2020 Porsche introduced the 991 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition, with factory-installed Cherry Metallic paint, white side-door circles, gold-embroidered Porsche crests, and factory stripes, a tribute to the 1950s-1960s 911. For collectors this is one of the most sought-after modern Targa specifications.
The 911 Targa line represents its own segment within the 911 market. Classic G-Model and 964 Targas have shown steadily rising values since 2018, particularly in original colour with proven working Targa mechanisms. The 993 Targa (due to its unique position as the only air-cooled sliding-glass specification) is in a higher price class than regular 993 Carreras. Modern 991 and 992 Targas are valued by driving-oriented buyers for their open-top character with classic styling. The 991 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition is the most sought-after modern Targa specification for collectors and trades consistently above original list. For sellers this means a well-documented 911 Targa with proven Porsche service history and a proven working Targa mechanism attracts strong international interest.
G-Model Targa (1974-1989, classic removable panels with roll bar), 964 Targa (1989-1994, classic specification), 993 Targa (1995-1998, first sliding glass roof), 996/997 Targa (sliding glass roof), 991/992 Targa (integrated retractable glass with classic bar). Each generation has its own buyer pool.
For classic Targas (G-Model, 964): factory colour and original paint strongly drive price. For modern Targas: factory PTS colours, factory-installed Heritage Design Package (on the 991 Targa 4S Heritage), and factory accessory packages. Document all factory options.
For classic Targas: condition of the removable roof panel and roll bar trim. For 993/996/997 Targa: condition of the sliding glass mechanism (motors, guides, any leakage). For 991/992 Targa: condition of the integrated retractable system. A working roof system drives price for modern Targas.
Decisive for classic Targas (G-Model, 964) for collectors. For modern Targas (991, 992) it reinforces factory-spec confirmation, particularly for Heritage Design Package specifications. Apply via a Porsche dealer or Porsche Classic in Stuttgart.
For classic air-cooled Targas: specialist Mezger or Carrera engine service, plus attention to the Targa roof mechanism. For modern Targas: standard 911 service plus Targa mechanism check. Service at Porsche or a recognised specialist is essential.
For the G-Model and 964 Targa rust investigation is essential, with particular attention to the roll bar attachment points and the roof panel frame. Leakage around the Targa roof can lead to rust in the body. For modern Targas: panel condition and factory finish.
Note: These factors may influence buyer interest. Value depends on many factors.
G-Model Targa (removable panel with bar), 964 Targa (removable panel), 993/996/997 Targa (sliding glass roof without bar), 991/992 Targa (integrated retractable glass with classic bar). Precise identification is essential for the right buyer pool.
For classic Targas: proven working removable panel and intact roll bar trim. For 993/996/997 Targa: photos and video of working sliding glass mechanism without faults. For 991/992 Targa: photos and video of working retractable glass system. A faulty roof is a substantial negative factor for modern Targas.
Decisive for classic Targas (G-Model, 964). For modern Targas it reinforces factory-spec confirmation, particularly for the 991 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition and factory PTS specifications.
For air-cooled Targas: standard 911 service plus Targa mechanism check. For modern Targas: 911 service per factory schedule. Service at Porsche or a recognised 911 specialist is essential.
Photos of floor pans, sills, A-pillars, roll bar attachment points, and frame around the roof panel. Leakage around the Targa roof can lead to rust; proof of unrepaired body and original paint strongly drives price for collectors.
Paint colour with factory code, factory-installed wheels, leather specification, factory sunroof. For the 991 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition: confirm Cherry Metallic paint, white side-door circles, gold embroidery, and factory stripes. Original factory order configuration reinforces value.
Number of previous owners, geographic distribution, mileage, any climatological use history (Targas are typically used mainly in spring and summer). For modern Targa collectors with Heritage Design Edition, first-owner status is a strong selling point.
Submit your car and our team will review it within 48 hours