The Porsche 911 is a mythical car that includes a wide array of available versions; so many, in fact, that choosing one can be challenging! Are you dreaming of driving one with the wind in your hair, but are hesitating as to which Porsche 911 convertible to choose?
Your Porsche dealership helps you see more clearly by comparing the different available 911 convertible models in this friendly duel “2023 Porsche 911 Targa vs 2023 Porsche 911 Cabriolet”.
Comparing Exterior Designs
The main differences between these two type of models are found in the exterior design, as you will see in the first chapter of this comparison “911 Cabriolet vs 911 Targa”.
Before jumping into this match between the 2023 911 Cabriolet and 2023 911 Targa, let’s dive into a bit of history. The Porsche 911 Targa was the first of its kind to be born back in 1965. In those days, convertibles were not vehicles in which North American drivers trusted easily, as people had many doubts as to how safe they were to drive. Porsche had designed the Targa with a rear windshield, a design element that remained on future models.
Then, in 1983, the Porsche 911 Cabriolet was launched with a soft top that was fully retractable and coupled with an aluminum roll-over bar. Today, this design element remains the main difference between both iterations of the 911.
For the ultimate roofless experience, the 911 Carrera Cabriolet trims and the 911 Turbo Cabriolet trims are truly exceptional vehicles. You should know that you can also choose the color of your soft roof! With the Cabriolet trims, you can expect a more streamlined and sportier body styling.
On the other hand, the 911 Targa also has many remarkable features to offer: it is the perfect combination of a coupé and a convertible and has a truly unique design. Moreover, the hard top offers excellent insulation for a much quieter interior when it is fully closed.
As for the rest, both have several common features for an overall body design that is unmistakably Porsche:
• Unique oval headlights
• LED lighting
• A sloped roofline
• 20- Inch wheels at the front and 21- Inch wheels at the back
• A continuous light strip at the rear
Takeaway :
• If you are looking for a streamlined and sporty exterior, and the most authentic roofless experience possible, then you should opt for one of the available 911 Cabriolet models.
• If you love a retro look and more versatility for daily use, especially during bad weather and/or for a quieter interior while driving, then you should opt for a 911 Targa.
Comparing Specs
No matter which convertible model you choose, you will definitely enjoy outstanding driving dynamics. Both models do offer several versions, depending on how much power you are looking for.
Firstly, you will find a twin-turbo 6- cylinder at the back. With the base trims, this will provide you with 379 horsepower and 332 lb-ft. of maximum torque. With the 911 Carrera S Cabriolet and 911 Targa 4 S, power increases to 443 horsepower and 391 lb-ft. of maximum torque!
With the 911 Targa 4 GTS and 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet, numbers climb even higher, reaching 473 horsepower and 420 lb-ft. of maximum torque.
At the top of the range, the Cabriolet offers an additional model for adrenaline junkies: the 911 Turbo S Cabriolet with a turbocharged engine that peaks at 640 horsepower for 590 lb-ft. of maximum torque. The high-performance Porsche convertible performs the 0-100 km/hr in just 2.8 seconds and can reach up to 330 km/hr on the track!
While the Carrera models are rear-wheel drive, it is possible to opt for all-wheel drive with the:
• 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet
• 911 Carrera 4 S Cabriolet
• 911 Carrera 4 GTS Cabriolet
As for the Targa, it features all-wheel drive as standard equipment. It has a more “touring” feel, while the Carrera is the perfect sports car. A little heavier, the Targa still remains a very comfortable vehicle that is also very powerful and enjoyable to drive.
As you can see, each 911 convertible has something unique to offer! This means that the decision will really depend on your needs:
• For an extremely pure “hair in the wind” driving experience, you should opt for a 911 Cabriolet with rear-wheel drive.
• For a maximum of versatility while also maintaining a retractable soft top, you should opt for a 911 Cabriolet equipped with all-wheel drive.
• For the cream of the crop when it comes to performance, only the 911 Turbo S Cabriolet and its out-of-this-world power figures will convince you, especially given that it will remain equally capable during bad weather episodes (all-wheel drive is standard).
• For a dynamic “grand touring” type of driving experience with a maximum of versatility, then you should opt for one of the “Targa” trims of the 911.
Interior Design
From the inside, all Porsche’s convertible models offer a comfortable interior that is also elegant and sporty. Several packages will also help you customize and enhance your experience even further, according to your preferences.
Moreover, the cabin is just as customizable as the exterior, offering different color options, like:
• Black
• Slate Grey
• Mojave Beige
• Burgundy Red
• And several other combinations with contrasting topstitches!
You can also choose between 14- way power Comfort Seats, bucket seats reinforced with carbon fiber or even Sport Plus adaptive seats. The latter are standard on the 911 Turbo S and come with 18- settings along with maximum support, including for the shoulders!
The Porsche Connect system is also standard and features a clear and intuitive display on a 10.9- inch HD touch screen. It also comes with several other functionalities like voice assistance, Bluetooth connectivity, a navigation system and smart phone compatibility.
For an even sportier experience, you can also opt for the Sport Chrono package with a mode selector and a chronograph on the dashboard. You can choose a Bose or Burmester sound system as an option, for a sound experience worthy of the greatest concert halls! The 911 Cabriolet Type 992 and the 911 Targa Type 992 are the cream of the crop and offer cutting-edge technologies.
So, do you think you would prefer a 2023 911 Cabriolet or rather opt for a 2023 Porsche 911 Targa? For a vehicle of this category, everything is a question of philosophy. For those of you who prefer a comfortable driving experience with a retro styling, you will love the Targa. For sport aficionados looking for a streamlined and slightly more modern design, you will love the Cabriolet!
Find the perfect Porsche 911 convertible for you with Porsche Lauzon, your Porsche dealership located in the Metropolitan area! Located in Laval on the North Shore, we also offer Porsche leasing and financing solutions. Come and take advantage of our current Porsche special offers in the Greater Montreal area!