Turbo Targa?

I know there's not one in the current generation of the 911 but has there ever been a Turbo Targa? If not, any speculation why?

There has been, I believe in the late 70's. They had Turbo Cabriolets at the same time, too. I saw one at a local movie theatre a few months ago. I believe there were less than 2000 of each made? (Not sure how many less). A few minutes with Google might give more details. As for now, I'd guess it'd be too heavy, and the demand wouldn't be there. I recall 996 targas not selling nearly as well - I mean, I could see myself sort of wanting one, but if it came down to it, I'd just get a cab...

Just shows that you have not spent enough time with a Targa. I am not saying that people are stupid for prefering a Coupe or a Cab, but a Targa is a different beast altogether. For example, Targas are very cool in cool weather or rainy days like today. You get so much light and you can see everything going on. It gives you a much stronger connection with your surroundings. Again, not for everyone, but totally different experience than a cab.

Well, I guess if I had enough $$, Porsche (or maybe Ruf) would build me whatever I want, eh? Ahh, perchance to dream! Thanks for the info! P.S. Anyone ever own one of those turbo Targas?

I think there were targa turbos in the late 80's as well. '87-'89.

I would have liked to have a Targa if it didnt have the two side pillars. I like the Targa that is open all the way across like NSX.

But you see . . . the side pillars are what gives it the stiffness of a coupe and allow you to put the top up and down at any speed, even if you are in triple digits. That is another thing of beauty about the Targa.

I just purchased an 87 factory slantnose 930 cab, and driven by interest, I did some research into the production numbers. Although I don't have the numbers for the non-slantnosed turbos, an internal memo from Porsche lists a total of 31 slantnose turbo targas delivered to the U.S. from 1987 through 1989. Those numbers do not include European deliveries. I'm sure that the number for the standard targa turbos (non-slantnose versions) for those years would be a bit higher, but that should give you an inkling of information on turbo targas for those years as well as answer your question of whether there were any turbo targas made. Chuck

As much as I like the targa roof - and I do, always have it open when it's not raining - I have come to appreciate the rear hatch feature as much. Took my son to his ball game last night in the p-car ... his bats, bag and other gear just got tossed in the back - no sweat. O.k. so it's not intended to be an suv, but it sure increases the number of times you can use the car. Great fun ripping around with my 20 year old ( yes I'm that old!) and only have limited opportunities as he gets older. Why no Targa Turbo - likely due to limited demand. The turbo is already a pretty pricey beast and the market will only be so big. Then there's the turbo cab. which will be even pricier, so you're down to some pretty small numbers I would think for yet another model. Presumably they would have to do some extra strengthening to the Targa for the extra grunt, so more development costs, etc. Just my $.02.

While I think all 911 are beautiful cars, I really never liked the look of the targa or the cab for that matter. I think the most wonderful design in auto design is the line from the rear of the roof to the flared rear fender of a 911 coupe. The targa and the cab both change that line. I will admit that those cars do have benefits such as top down driving or the glass open roof but the cab has no security which would probably keep me up at night(my car is in the garage-I am just ****). The targa has that pointed rear quarter window..I just don't care for it. Again, they are all wonderful cars so no disrespect intended...just my .02

.... a nicely shaped rear. Who can argue with that?

Wow, thanks for all the info guys!