2007 Porsche 911 Carrera S Targa .
In 2007, Porsche offered no less than 12 variants of its fabled 911 model. Everything from the limited edition GT3 to a scalding-hot turbo to a soft-top cabriolet. All were expensive, fast, and aimed at enthusiasts. The choices of drivetrains and body styles was dizzying.
One of the more popular models was the Carrera S Targa, which had all the Porsche basics, such as staggering acceleration, concussion-inducing braking and racing-calibre cornering, all presented in a civilized grand touring package that was equally at home around town or on the race track. It was quicker than the base Carrera, but, unbelievably, slower than the Turbo and GT3.
Power was provided by Porsche's tried-and-true flat-six boxer engine that, in this configuration, displaced 3.8 litres and hammered out 355 horsepower. Two transmissions were available: Six-speed manual and six-speed Tiptronic automatic, and you could also order full-time all-wheel-drive with the 4S. The manual shift version gave the Carrera Targa S a 0 to 100 km/h time of about five seconds and a top speed approaching 300 km/h. The Tiptronic transmission was, incidentally, almost $4,800 more expensive.
Like all Porsches, the ignition key for the Carrera Targa S was - and is - on the left side of the dashboard, and this was a car that was actually meant to go racing. Serious enthusiasts could order a Sport Chrono package for about $1,300, and this included a stop watch mounted atop the dash, plus an "electronic notebook" so you could keep track of your lap times. There was also an available suspension management system and a engine recalibration feature, which allowed boy and girl racers to drive the car to the track, put on their helmets, hit the button and get enhanced performance and handling - just like that.
The Targa also had a huge sunroof that took up almost the entire top portion of the car and deployed in less than 10 seconds - even when you were moving. Switchgear and controls were a bit of a dog's breakfast, but that's always been the case with Porsche and many enthusiasts wouldn't have it any other way.
Transport Canada has no safety recalls on file for the 2007 Porsche 911 Carrera Targa S - nor for any Porsche products, as far as that goes. Neither does the U.S.-based National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which doesn't even list it in their database.
NHTSA does, however, have a handful of technical safety bulletins for all 911 models of this vintage, and they include a couple of fuel tank vent cautions and various diagnostic issues. The GT3 and Turbo models also have warnings regarding oil lines leading to the turbocharger and a problem with the vacuum lines leading to the brake booster. It should be pointed out that, being a Porsche, the Carrera Targa S (and all the rest of Porsche's 911 models, for that matter) may have seen its share of hard use; Porsches are meant to be driven with spirit, and many are.
Interestingly, Consumer Reports likes this year of the 911 Carrera, giving it high marks in most areas, with the exception of the electrical system and engine and transmission. It rates a "better than average" grade from the magazine. However, the next year - 2008 - gets top marks in every category, right across the board, garnering a "much better than average" ranking from this organization.
Some comments from '07 owners: "feels every bump in the road", "engine is a bit loud, seats could be more comfortable", and "a high school dream come true". Unsurprisingly, Consumer Reports is very enthusiastic about this car's braking prowess.
Market research company J.D. Power is equally bullish, and gives this vintage of the 911 high marks in most categories. Powertrain quality and instrumentation seem to be less than they could be (those wonky ergonomics and loopy switchgear), but otherwise, the Carrera gets top or near the top marks in virtually every area.
Although the 2007 Carrera Targa S has come down substantially from its original $130,000-plus base price, it is still an expensive proposition. If you can find one, you'll be lucky to get it for less than $70,000 these days.
globedrive@globeandmail.com
2007 Porsche Carrera S Targa
Original Base Price: $133,200; Black Book Value: $79,750; Red Book Value: $69,500
Engine: 3.8-litre, liquid-cooled, horizontally-opposed six-cylinder
Horsepower/Torque: 355 hp/295 lb-ft
Transmission: Six-speed manual/automatic
Drive: Rear-wheel
Fuel Economy (litres/100 km): 13.6 city/8.7 highway; premium gas
Alternatives: Aston Martin Vantage, Jaguar XKR Coupe, BMW M6, Mercedes SL55 AMG, Chevrolet Corvette, Dodge Viper