Targa roof and heat

Sorry if this has been covered, I did a search and was unable to find it. I am considering a used 2002 - 2003 Targa. I like its ability to give both the convertible's open air feeling while at the same time being able to have a quieter ride when you would like. I am San Antonio, and was wondering if I am going to sweat my .... "pants" off in the summer? I was just envisioning sitting in traffic. This would be my first P car, so can anyone with a Targa comment on how well the A/C works, if it is able to keep up with the sun through the panorama roof while sitting in traffic on a hot day? Thanks for any insight.

well i don't have a targa but my cab soaks alot of heat here in DFW and the A/C really works well even stuck in traffic, but you will have a greater issue of the sun actually on you which we both know in Texas makes even 65 degree day outside feel like its just burning you while its shinning through the windows

Chilled airflow over your (partially??{bald??}) head cannot compensate for the sun's radiant heat. But you can increase the overall efficiency of the A/C by using max cool (prevents remix heating of portions of the system airflow) and using the blower speed to regulate comfort level. Increases MPG and engine cooling efficiency also. Don't know if the 996 has one. but my Lexus has a servo-valve in the heater's hot water flow line which I manually block closed in the hot summertime.

I have one summer's experience with a 2002 Targa. Probably the best way to summarize is to say it's pretty hot when you get in but a combination of the sunshade and AC keep the car comfortable after a few minutes. I would suggest keeping the shade closed when the car is parked in the sun. I live in the northeast so I would imagine you would have many more hot days so I might also suggest a lighter color interior as well if you have the option.

Firewired, I just traded in my '03 Targa. I loved the car, and found it a great combination betw/ a coupe and convertible. I had the top open on every drive that it didn't rain. I had no complaints about the car, except that there is a squeaky roof problem that they were unable to correct. I understand that it is relatively common, but so few of these cars are made, that it is probably difficult to sort out the cause/repair. I suggest that you take any car on a very bumpy road, and try to flex it, and the body to see how the roof performs. I would definitely get another. I traded it in bec/ I will be doing a lot of mountain/snow/long distance driving in coming months. Have fun! Craig

Can you tell me where did you trade your car into? I have been having a hard time finding any Artic Silver or Grey.

There's a used '02 Arctic Silver Targa at a local dealer here in Indianapolis. It's overpriced, but they've had it for awhile, so maybe they'd be willing to deal. 22K miles. By the way, I haven't had any trouble with excessive solar heating with my Targa, although it's usually parked under a covered carport during the day. The exterior of my car is Seal grey, the interior is black. I love the Targa concept; I find it to be a great compromise between the complete openness of a cab and the tightness and security of a hardtop.

Oops, almost forgot the link: http://www.highlinemotors.com/detail.cfm?iid=27901

I drive mine in the very hot summer months up here , the motorized sun shade works like magic..I haven't had any squeaks except when it was very cold in late November before I it into storage..great combo without the hassle of a cab. Cheers

Firewired, Traded mine in about a month ago to Stead Porsche in Walnut Creek, California (was a tip, basalt black w/ nave and wood). It had only 8M miles, and I think it was gone in a day or so. These are tough cars to find. I think they are a real value: less expensive than cabs but more versatile. Happy hunting! Craig