THE 911 2.2S TARGA
A 'modern classic' if ever there was one, Porsche's long-running 911 arrived in 1964, replacing the 356 that had secured the fledgling company's reputation as producer of some of the world's finest sporting cars. The iconic 911 would take this reputation to an even more exulted level on both the road and the racetrack.
The first of countless upgrades came in 1966 with the introduction of the 911S. Easily distinguishable by its stylish Fuchs five-spoked alloy wheels, the 'S' featured a heavily revised engine producing 160bhp, the increased urge raising top speed by 10mph to 135mph (217km/h). A lengthened wheelbase introduced in 1969 improved the 911's sometimes wayward handling, and then in 1970 the engine underwent the first of many enlargements, to 2.2 litres, in which form it produced 180bhp on Bosch mechanical fuel injection when installed in the top-of-the-range 'S' models.
Two years after the original coupé's introduction, a convertible 911 - the 'Targa', named in honour of Porsche's numerous victories in the Sicilian classic - arrived in 1966. Expected US safety legislation had prompted an ingenious approach to the soft-top 911, the Targa sporting a hefty roll-over bar to protect the occupants in the event of an inversion together with removable roof and rear hood sections, which were stowed in the boot. For 1969 a quieter and less leak-prone fixed rear window replaced the less than perfect rear hood, and the ever-popular Targa would continue in this form well into the 1990s, sharing countless mechanical and styling developments with its closed cousin along the way.
OUR 911 2.2S TARGA
The car offered here is one of the rare 1970 911S Targa models with the 2.2-Litre engine, only 729 of which were produced, and with 180bhp on tap was one of the two most powerful models in the range, the other being the 911S coupé. This matching-numbers example was delivered new to the USA and was on static display for most of its life (1982-2015) at Auburn Automotive Heritage in Indiana from where the previous owner bought the car.
The Porsche did not need a full restoration but the perfectionist owner wanted it to be perfect and commissioned a full 'last nut and bolt' restoration which was undertaken between 2015 and 2019 and comes with a photographic record and invoices totalling over €120,000. The latter total includes bills of €25,000 for the engine rebuild. Originally finished in Burgundy with beige/tan interior, the car now has Black Pepita interior trim (the expensive and difficult to find door pockets are new).
This classic beauty has been fully restored to its original glory and boasts a matching numbers engine, ensuring authenticity and value for collectors. But it's not just about the mechanics - this car also comes with an extended history, giving you a unique glimpse into its past.
The current owner bought the car in 2019 and barely drove the car with only around 1.350km on the odo. He had a Nardi steering wheel installed which together with the sport seats delivers a more direct driving experience but the original steering wheel is available as well. Obviously, the Targa is still presented in excellent condition throughout.
A highly desirable top-of-the-range model in a very attractive colour-combination, this superb Porsche 911S Targa is worthy of the closest inspection. The car is offered with the original steering wheel, Porsche Certificate, toolkit, the old US title, and the aforementioned restoration invoices.
With its stunning design, fully restored mechanics, and extended history, it's the perfect addition to any collector's garage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to own a true automotive icon!