This 1997 Porsche 911 Targa is finished in Artic Silver Metallic over a special-order Boxster Red leather interior. While its build specification may be rare, it’s almost more unusual to find a 993-generation 911 Targa equipped with a six-speed. Most 911 Targas of this era were equipped as Tiptronics but this unique 911 features a manual transmission for increased driver involvement.
Additional extra-cost options include Litronic headlights, a limited-slip differential, side skirts, Motorsound package, Silver faced gauges, leather sun visors, and Dark Rootwood trim on the dashboard, shifter, and brake handle. Also specified was the uncommon Aerokit I package, comprising a bi-plane rear spoiler with integrated third brake light, and front lip spoiler.
With less than 26,000 miles on its odometer, this Targa presents in beautiful and unmodified condition and is supplied with books, tools, jack, and tire inflator. In January 2023 at 25,600 miles, Fairfield County Motorsport of Fairfield, Connecticut serviced this car, changing fluids, filters, installing new Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires, and repairing the climate control unit. Possessing a very singular specification, this highly optioned Targa ticks all the boxes for those who desire a rare and unusual example of Porsche’s final air-cooled 911.
Porsche’s fourth and final air-cooled generation 911 premiered at the IAA Frankfurt Motor Show on 9 September 1993, thirty years after the original 901 made its debut at the very same exhibition. Credited to designer Tony Hatter, the new Type 993 appeared more modern than its 964-generation predecessor and received numerous technical innovations and advances in performance, comfort, and safety. For the 1996 model year, an open-air Targa was offered. Unlike the previous fixed roll-over bar and removable roof panel arrangement on offer since 1967, the new variant incorporated an expansive, modern electric glass roof and integrated sunshade that slid underneath the rear window. Other distinguishing features were triangular rear quarter windows and 17-inch split-rim alloy wheels.