1997 PORSCHE 911 (993) TARGA

This 1997 Porsche 993 Targa is a very good example of the last air-cooled 911 model, presented with an impressive service history and having only two private keepers from new. Under the rear engine cover is the 282bhp 3.6-litre flat-six, which drives the rear wheels via a four-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission, with steering wheel-mounted shift buttons. The odometer displays 131,303 miles.

An original UK-market car, this Targa was first registered in August 1997. Its logbook lists only two keepers, and it has remained with the same family throughout its history. Finished in Arctic Silver over a light grey leather interior, it benefits from having the ‘VarioRam’ intake system, which provides a useful torque boost in the mid rev-range. The car is now offered for sale to its next owner by the trade.

Today, the bodywork remains free of any dents or other accident damage, and is believed to wear its original Arctic Silver paintwork. Described by the vendor as being in fair condition, the finish shows a few general signs of its age, including slight corrosion on the front panel by the windscreen and on the roof by the A-pillar, as well as stone chips on the nose and the wheel arches, which is commensurate with the car’s age. The light lenses and external trims present well, though the bonnet badge’s enamel paint has worn away somewhat. The Targa’s namesake sliding glass roof is in outstanding order and works perfectly. This 911 rides on the correct set of 17-inch split-rim Speedline alloy wheels, which have previously been fully refurbished and are very smart, with only one minor kerb scuff on the rim of the rear passenger-side wheel.

In the cabin, the seats and door cards are clad in light grey leather and present particularly well for their age. Both of the seats feature minor creasing to their surfaces, but are free of any rips, tears or substantial wear, with the only noticeable mark being a small blemish just above the driver’s electric seat controls. Ahead, the steering wheel is in great shape, and all of the interior plastics are in good order. Although the air-conditioning system is not blowing cold and likely needs to be recharged, the other interior buttons and switches work as they should. The vendor also notes that the handbrake warning light flickers on and off intermittently, which may require further investigation.

This 993’s most recent routine maintenance was a general service, which was carried out in October 2017 at 130,481 miles by Porsche specialist Hartech. Prior to this, it was serviced In April 2016 at 130,236 miles and in April 2014 at 130,162 miles, again by Hartech.

Its last MOT test was conducted on 23 February 2021 at 131,303 miles. This resulted in a first-time pass, with one warning for damage to the nearside of the front windscreen, and advisories for a slight oil leak from the centre-rear of the car, a light misting of oil on the offside rear shock absorber, and damaged or perished tyres.

The wheels are shod in Bridgestone Potenza S02 tyres, which will require replacement in the near future. The car will be accompanied by its original book pack and stamped service books, as well as its tool roll and jack.

Set apart from classic and present-day Targas alike by its unique sliding glass roof, this 993-generation Porsche 911 offers both coupe-like refinement and open-air enjoyment in one stylish package. Enjoyed by the same family from new and maintained by main dealers and specialists throughout its life, this 993 Targa wants for only minor cosmetic and mechanical attention to bring it up to a very good standard indeed, and could no doubt provide many more years of faithful service to its next owner.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.