1996 Porsche 911 Targa (993)

A highly usable example of Porsche’s final air-cooled 911 generation, combining the distinctive 993 silhouette with an innovative electrically operated glass Targa roof.

Paint

The silver paintwork presents to a good overall standard and complements the clean, understated design of the 993 particularly well.

The colour appears consistent across the main panels and retains an attractive level of gloss. There are, however, a number of age-related blemishes that should be noted.

Stone chips and scratches are visible across the front end, as would be expected from a car that has been driven and enjoyed. There are also some marks on the driver’s door, scratches and small paint chips around the passenger-door area and several paint chips on the retractable rear spoiler.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these hi-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

Bodywork

The bodywork presents well overall, retaining the compact dimensions, smoothly integrated bumpers and gently curved wings associated with the 993.

The panels appear straight, while the doors, bonnet and engine cover operated as expected during our visit. The shut lines also appear consistent around the car.

There is a very small dent adjacent to the passenger-side headlamp, along with another small dent on the passenger door. Some light scratches and other marks can also be seen near the passenger door.

The electrically operated Targa roof and retractable rear spoiler both functioned as intended during our visit.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our hi-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view at what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

Dashboard

The dashboard retains the traditional five-dial arrangement that has characterised generations of the Porsche 911.

The large central rev counter remains the focal point, with the remaining instruments positioned around it to keep the most important information immediately visible to the driver.

The dashboard, centre console, vents, switches and associated trim present very well. We did not notice any significant cracking or obvious damage during our visit.

The car is also equipped with air-conditioning, which worked correctly when tested.

Overall, the dashboard remains clean and well preserved, complementing the excellent condition found throughout most of the cabin.

The drive

The 993 Targa offers a distinctive combination of traditional air-cooled 911 character and greater refinement than its predecessors.

The rear-mounted flat-six provides a strong and engaging soundtrack, while the redesigned suspension gives the car a reassuring balance between agility and comfort.

This particular example feels especially well suited to relaxed road use. The suspension is supple enough to remain comfortable, the steering is direct and communicative, and the brakes provide reassuring stopping performance.

The Tiptronic S gearbox complements this character well. Left in automatic mode, it changes gear smoothly and allows the Porsche to make easy progress through traffic or on longer journeys. Its manual-selection function provides greater involvement when the road becomes more interesting.

During our drive, the engine ran very well and the transmission responded without lag or hesitation. No unwanted noises were heard from the engine, gearbox, steering or suspension.

Opening the large glass roof introduces considerably more light and air into the cabin without sacrificing the security and coupé-like shape of the fixed roof structure.

Glass and trim

The exterior glass, light units, lenses, badges and mirrors all present well.

The headlamps and indicator lenses appear clear, while the full-width rear reflector remains one of the most distinctive visual features of the 993. The Porsche and Carrera badging is present and appears to be in good order.

The electrically retractable glass Targa roof is shown in both its open and closed positions. It operated correctly during our visit and adds a great deal of light to the cabin.

The door mirrors, window surrounds, roof rails and associated exterior trim also appear presentable, with no significant concerns.

Please view the photos and video below to review the condition of the glass and trim for yourself.

Wheels and tyres

The Porsche is fitted with an attractive set of silver alloy wheels featuring five broad spokes and exposed perimeter fasteners.

The wheels present in excellent overall condition - we did not notice any significant kerbing, heavy corrosion or other obvious damage during our visit.

The tyres also appear to be in very good visual condition and retain a suitable level of tread.

Please take time to review the photos and videos for a detailed view of the exterior, wheels, and tyres so you can make your own assessment of their condition. Tyres are a key safety item, and you should consider replacing any that are cracked, perished, unevenly worn, or over 10 years old.

Seats and carpets

The seats are in very good condition overall and retain their shape and support.

Some age-related patina is visible on the driver’s seat, particularly around the areas that receive the most use when entering and leaving the car. This is consistent with the age of the Porsche without significantly detracting from the cabin’s presentation.

The passenger seat and rear seating area appear especially well preserved, with no notable damage reported during our visit.

Please take a look at the photos and video below to decide on the condition of the seats and carpets for yourself.

Engine and gearbox

Mounted behind the rear axle is Porsche’s 3.6-litre air-cooled flat-six engine.

For the 1996 model year, the Carrera and Targa received the VarioRam intake system, helping improve the engine’s torque delivery while increasing its quoted output to 285PS.

The engine ran very well during our visit. It felt smooth and responsive, with no unwanted noises or obvious mechanical concerns noted.

This example is fitted with Porsche’s four-speed Tiptronic S automatic transmission. The gearbox operated smoothly in normal driving and moved through its ratios without hesitation.

No unwanted noises, excessive delay or noticeable lag were experienced during our journey. The manual-selection function also gives the driver additional control when desired while retaining the convenience of a conventional automatic.

Overall, the engine and transmission performed as expected from a well-maintained 993.

Please watch the mechanical and on-the-road videos to hear the air-cooled engine starting and running and to see the Porsche being driven.

Electrics and other

The electrically operated Targa roof functioned correctly during our visit, retracting its glass panel beneath the rear screen.

The integrated rear spoiler also operated as intended. It rises to assist engine cooling and aerodynamic stability before retracting into the engine cover when no longer required.

The air-conditioning worked correctly and produced cool air during testing.

No specific concerns were raised regarding the remaining electrical equipment.

History and paperwork

Any servicing records, maintenance invoices, MOT certificates and other documents accompanying the Porsche should be reviewed within the paperwork gallery to establish its documented history and previous expenditure.

Rob has now decided that the time is right to pass the Porsche on, creating an opportunity to acquire a mechanically strong and highly usable example of the innovative glass-roofed 993 Targa.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, and as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment on the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bid/s, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Suspension and brakes

The 993 introduced Porsche’s redesigned multi-link rear suspension, intended to improve stability, handling precision and ride comfort.

This example feels particularly well balanced. The suspension is relatively soft and compliant by sports-car standards, making the Porsche comfortable over ordinary roads without losing the controlled character expected from a 911.

No unwanted knocks, rattles or other concerning suspension noises were noticed during our drive.

The steering also felt direct and consistent, with no unusual noises or operational concerns reported.

The brakes performed well, bringing the car to a stop confidently without obvious pulling, vibration or unwanted sounds.

Overall, the suspension, steering and braking systems behaved very well and contribute to the impression of a mechanically sound and usable car.

Steering wheel gear stick

The steering wheel displays some age-related patina around its rim, consistent with regular use over the years.

This wear appears honest and does not affect its operation. The wheel retains its original sporting character and provides a clear view of the traditional Porsche instruments.

The selector and its surrounding trim present well and remain consistent with the excellent overall condition of the interior.