Powered Targa roof combines style of coupe with open top motoring

While Porsche believes enthusiasts will recognise styling cues from the classic Targa concept from the late 1960s, the all new 991-based model is the first to combine advanced open roof technology with a distinctive coupe appearance.

Just like the legendary original 911 Targa, the 991 features a striking wide bar in place of B-pillars, a movable roof section, and a wrap-around rear window.

The Targa roof system in the 991 Targa consists of two movable parts - a soft top and a glass rear window.

The rear window attached to the convertible top compartment lid is opened and tilted at the push of a button. At the same time, two flaps open in the Targa bar, releases the soft top as it folds and stows away behind the rear seats. The mechanism takes around 19 seconds to operate and functions only when the vehicle is stationary.

A wind deflector integrated can be erected manually when the top is down to reduce drafts and buffeting in the interior by a considerable margin.

With these features, the 991 Targa presents itself as a high quality, innovative reinterpretation of the classic from 1965.

The 991 Targa comes in two versions with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed manual transmission as standard.

The 991 Targa 4 (right) is powered by a 3.4-litre, 350bhp flat-six engine - and when equipped with the optional Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) double-clutch transmission and Sport Chrono Package, it accelerates from nought to century in 4.8 seconds to reach a top speed of 281km/h.

The 991 Targa 4S (banner), delivers 400bhp from a 3.8-litre power unit to hit a top speed of 296km/h after reaching century mark in 4.4 seconds - when equipped with the PDK and Sport Chrono packages.

The 991 Targa models are currently available to order from Porsche Centres in the U.K. and Ireland, with first cars arriving in showrooms in May.