The Porsche 911 Targa (964) Carrera 2 3.6, produced from 1989 to December 1993, represents a significant evolution in the iconic 911 lineage. Falling within the 964 generation (1989-1994), this variant combined the open-air experience of the Targa top with the performance of the Carrera 2, utilizing a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine. It occupied a middle ground in the 964 lineup, offering a balance between the more affordable Carrera 2 with the smaller 3.6L engine and the higher-performance Carrera 4 and Turbo models. The 964 generation was crucial for Porsche, modernizing the 911 while retaining its core characteristics and addressing concerns about its aging design.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Targa (964) |
| Type (Engine) | Carrera 2 3.6 (250 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1989 |
| End of production | December, 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Targa |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 17.1 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg, 16.5 UK mpg, 5.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.8-9.7 l/100 km (30.2 – 24.2 US mpg, 36.2 – 29.1 UK mpg, 12.8 – 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 260 km/h (161.56 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 185.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.4 kg/Nm, 229.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 250 Hp @ 6100 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 4800 rpm (228.64 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M64.01 |
| Engine displacement | 3600 cm3 (219.69 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 340 kg (749.57 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 77 l (20.34 US gal | 16.94 UK gal) |
| Length | 4250 mm (167.32 in.) |
| Width | 1652 mm (65.04 in.) |
| Height | 1310 mm (51.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2272 mm (89.45 in.) |
| Front track | 1380 mm (54.33 in.) |
| Rear track | 1374 mm (54.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.95 m (39.21 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Front tires | 205/55 R16 |
| Rear tires | 225/50 R16 |
| Front wheel rims | 6J x 16 |
| Rear wheel rims | 8J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 964 Carrera 2 3.6 is the M64.01 engine, a 3.6-liter (3600 cc) naturally aspirated flat-six. This engine represented a significant departure from the earlier 911 engines, incorporating hydraulic valve lifters to eliminate the need for periodic valve adjustments. It utilized a Bosch Motronic engine management system and multi-port fuel injection. The engine produced 250 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 228.64 lb-ft of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine’s boxer configuration, with horizontally opposed cylinders, contributed to a low center of gravity, enhancing handling. The standard transmission was a 5-speed manual, although a 4-speed Tiptronic automatic was available as an option. The automatic, while offering convenience, did slightly diminish acceleration performance compared to the manual.
Driving Characteristics
The 964 Carrera 2 3.6 with the manual transmission offered a rewarding driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 5.4 seconds, and it could reach a top speed of 161.56 mph. The engine delivered a smooth and linear power delivery, making it accessible and enjoyable for both spirited driving and everyday use. The Targa top, while adding some weight compared to the coupe, provided an open-air driving experience without sacrificing structural rigidity. The automatic transmission, while convenient, resulted in slightly slower acceleration times and a less engaging driving experience. Gear ratios were optimized for a balance of acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 964 Carrera 2 3.6 Targa came reasonably well-equipped as standard. Interior features included partial leather seats, power windows, central locking, and an upgraded sound system. Optional extras were plentiful, including full leather interiors, a sunroof, limited-slip differential, sport suspension, and various cosmetic enhancements. The Targa models typically featured a more luxurious interior trim than the base Carrera 2, reflecting their slightly higher price point. The dashboard layout was typical of the 964 generation, with a clear and functional design.
Chassis & Braking
The 964 Carrera 2 3.6 utilized a torsion bar suspension system, a hallmark of the 911. The front suspension featured McPherson struts with a transverse stabilizer, while the rear employed trailing arms with a transverse stabilizer and coil springs. Braking duties were handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, assisted by an ABS system. The braking system provided ample stopping power and good pedal feel. The Targa model’s weight distribution was slightly affected by the Targa top mechanism, but the suspension was tuned to compensate for this.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 964 Carrera 2 3.6 Targa was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its improved refinement, handling, and performance compared to earlier 911 models. Compared to the base Carrera 2 with the smaller engine, the 3.6-liter version offered a noticeable increase in power and torque. The Targa version, while more expensive than the coupe, provided a unique open-air experience. Fuel economy was reasonable for a sports car of its era, averaging around 16.5 UK mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs could be high due to the car’s complex engineering.
Legacy
The 964 Carrera 2 3.6 Targa remains a highly sought-after classic Porsche. The M64.01 engine is known for its durability and relatively straightforward maintenance, although regular servicing is essential. Today, these cars are prized by collectors and enthusiasts for their blend of performance, style, and driving enjoyment. The 964 generation is widely regarded as a pivotal moment in the 911’s history, bridging the gap between the classic air-cooled models and the modern water-cooled cars. Well-maintained examples command strong prices in the used car market, reflecting their enduring appeal and historical significance.
