VALUE STABLE CLASSICS PART 9: PORSCHE 911 T TARGA F MODEL
The origins of the Porsche 911 T Targa F model go back to the 1960s, when increasingly strict exhaust and safety laws were introduced for the US sales market. It was uncertain whether a convertible version of the 356 successor model would still be possible. The upcoming roll-over requirements could hardly be met with the conventional convertible design.
To comply a roll-over bar, nicely clad in stainless steel, a removable roof section and folding rear window were passed as the solution. Of course Porsche could have called the new body variant “Safety Cabriolet”, but the name “Targa” was deemed much better and fitted in well with the brand’s motorsport image. It evoked associations with the legendary Targa Florio endurance race in Sicily, where Porsche had achieved great success.
PORSCHE 911 T TARGA F MODEL – THE BEST OF TWO WORLDS
Porsche advertised the new model as a car with two functions: Open like a convertible and safe like a coupé. The Porsche 911 T Targa F model made its debut at the 1965 IAA, but enthusiastic customers had to wait until the end of 1966 for the first vehicles to be delivered.
In August of the following year a basic version called “T” completed the model range, which lacked, among other things, the oil pressure and oil level indicator. The “T” stood for Touring and not, as often confused, for Targa. The Porsche 911 T Targa F-model cost 20.380,- DM and thus 1.400,- DM more than the coupé version. Those who found the Touring equipment too meager could of course order extras for an extra charge or even go for the L(uxus) model which cost DM 22,380.
With the transition to the 1968 B series there were a number of changes to all 911 models. The most important and most noticeable of these changes were the 57mm longer wheelbase and extended mudguards. And only the Targa kept its opening triangular window in the doors.
Unlike today, in the beginning not every Porsche 911 T Targa F-model driver was enthusiastic about the folding window with zipper. It contracted under cold temperatures, which is why Porsche recommended not to open it below 15 degrees. For models produces starting from 1968 a fixed rear window was available as an extra option. Later the “soft window” was dropped and the fixed rear window became standard (from model year 1970). But some Targas were delivered with “soft window” on request, because the customer is king at Porsche.
Performance data with the kind support of:
Photos Carjager, Dr. Georg Konradsheim
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