The Porsche 911 Targa 4S (992) 3.0, producing 450 horsepower, represents a compelling blend of open-air driving enjoyment and all-weather capability within the iconic 911 lineage. Introduced in August 2020 as part of the 992 generation, it continued in production through May 2024. This variant builds upon the foundational 911 Targa concept – a partially open roof design with a distinctive wraparound rear window – and adds the performance benefits of Porsche’s all-wheel-drive system and a potent twin-turbocharged engine. It occupies a premium position within the 992 Targa range, sitting above the base Targa 4 and below the even more performance-focused Targa 4S Exclusive Design Edition.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Targa (992) |
| Type (Engine) | 4S 3.0 (450 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 2020 |
| End of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Targa |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 15.0 l/100 km (15.7 US mpg, 18.8 UK mpg, 6.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 235 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 200 km/h | 14.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 304 km/h (188.9 mph) |
| Emission standard | EURO 6d – ISC – FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.6 kg/Hp, 274.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 323.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 450 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 151 Hp/l |
| Torque | 530 Nm @ 2300-5000 rpm (390.91 lb.-ft. @ 2300-5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DKK |
| Engine displacement | 2981 cm3 (181.91 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 91 mm (3.58 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.3 l (8.77 US qt | 7.3 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1640 kg (3615.58 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2055 kg (4530.5 lbs.) |
| Max load | 415 kg (914.92 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 132 l (4.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l (17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal) |
| Length | 4519 mm (177.91 in.) |
| Width | 1852 mm (72.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2024 mm (79.69 in.) |
| Height | 1301 mm (51.22 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1589 mm (62.56 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 350 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 350 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system), 4-wheel steering (4WS, active rear steering) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/35 ZR 20, Rear wheel tires: 305/30 ZR 21 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8.5J x 20, Rear wheel rims: 11.5J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 911 Targa 4S lies Porsche’s 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, internally designated as the DKK. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and variable turbine geometry (VTG) turbochargers to deliver a broad torque curve and impressive power output. The engine produces 450 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 530 Nm (390.91 lb-ft) of torque between 2,300 and 5,000 rpm. The engine’s boxer configuration contributes to a low center of gravity, enhancing handling characteristics. The 7-speed manual transmission is standard, offering precise gear changes and a direct connection to the engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 911 Targa 4S delivers a refined yet engaging driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in inclement weather, making it a more practical option than rear-wheel-drive 911 variants. The twin-turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 4.2 seconds. While not as raw or visceral as the naturally aspirated engines found in earlier 911s, the 3.0-liter turbo offers a readily available surge of power across the rev range. The manual transmission provides a satisfying level of driver involvement, while the precise steering and well-tuned suspension contribute to confident handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 911 Targa 4S came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with a 10.9-inch touchscreen display, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), and a partial leather interior. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a Burmester high-end surround sound system, and various interior trim options. The Targa model specifically features the iconic automatically extending and retracting roof mechanism, adding a unique element of open-air enjoyment.
Chassis & Braking
The 992 generation 911 Targa 4S utilizes a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension features McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a balance of comfort and handling precision. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Porsche’s 4-wheel steering system is also available as an option, further enhancing agility and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 911 Targa 4S was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its blend of performance, comfort, and open-air driving experience. Compared to the base Targa 4, the 4S offers a significant power increase and enhanced performance. It also provides a more luxurious and well-equipped experience. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for 911 buyers, is respectable for a high-performance sports car, with combined fuel consumption around 22.8 US mpg.
Legacy
The 992 generation 911 Targa 4S represents a continuation of Porsche’s commitment to innovation and driving pleasure. The 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powerplant, and the 992 chassis offers a significant improvement in handling and comfort over previous generations. On the used car market, these models hold their value well, reflecting the enduring appeal of the 911 nameplate and the unique appeal of the Targa body style. The combination of performance, practicality, and open-air enjoyment ensures that the 911 Targa 4S will remain a desirable sports car for years to come.
