The Porsche 911 Targa 4 3.0 (385 hp) PDK, produced from August 2020 to May 2024, represents a compelling blend of performance, open-air driving enjoyment, and all-weather capability within the 992 generation of the iconic 911. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Targa lineup, it caters to drivers seeking a more practical and accessible entry point into the Targa experience compared to the more focused and powerful Targa 4S. This variant combines Porsche’s renowned engineering with the unique Targa top mechanism, offering a distinctive driving experience. It builds upon the foundation of the 992 platform, known for its advancements in technology and refinement over previous generations.
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 911 |
| Generation | 911 Targa (992) |
| Type (Engine) | 4 3.0 (385 Hp) PDK |
| Start of production | August, 2020 |
| End of production | May, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Targa |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.8 l/100 km (18.4 US mpg, 22.1 UK mpg, 7.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.0 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 223 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 | 15.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 289 km/h (179.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | EURO 6d – ISC – FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.3 kg/Hp, 231.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 270.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 385 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 129.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1950-5000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1950-5000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 7500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Rear, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | DKC |
| 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 | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2060 kg (4541.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 395 kg (870.83 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 | 1297 mm (51.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2450 mm (96.46 in.) |
| Front track | 1591 mm (62.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission PDK |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 330 mm |
| Front tires | 235/40 ZR 19 |
| Rear tires | 295/35 ZR 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 911 Targa 4 3.0 PDK lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, designated the DKC engine code. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering a precise and efficient fuel burn. The boxer configuration, with its horizontally opposed cylinders, contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling and stability. The twin-turbochargers provide a broad torque curve, delivering 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque between 1950 and 5000 rpm. The engine is paired with Porsche’s eight-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung) dual-clutch transmission. This transmission offers incredibly fast and smooth gear changes, contributing to both performance and efficiency. The PDK is known for its ability to provide both automatic and manual shifting modes, allowing the driver to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.
Driving Characteristics
The 911 Targa 4 3.0 PDK delivers a refined and engaging driving experience. While not as overtly aggressive as the Targa 4S, the 385 hp output provides ample power for spirited driving. The PDK transmission ensures quick acceleration, with 0-60 mph achieved in around 4.2 seconds. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The gear ratios are tuned to balance acceleration and fuel economy, offering a comfortable cruising experience on the highway. Compared to manual transmission versions, the PDK offers slightly quicker acceleration due to the elimination of shift interruption, but some purists may prefer the greater driver involvement of a manual gearbox. The Targa top mechanism, while adding some weight, doesn’t significantly detract from the car’s handling prowess.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 911 Targa 4 3.0 PDK came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with a touchscreen display, a premium sound system, leather upholstery, and automatic climate control. Standard interior features included power-adjustable seats, a multi-function steering wheel, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. Popular options included adaptive cruise control, a sport exhaust system, upgraded leather interiors, and various exterior customization options. The Targa-specific feature, of course, was the automatically retracting roof, which could be opened or closed in approximately 19 seconds, even while driving at moderate speeds.
Chassis & Braking
The 911 Targa 4 3.0 PDK 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 car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system is further enhanced by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and Porsche Stability Management (PSM). The Targa 4 also benefits from Porsche’s optional rear-axle steering, which enhances agility and maneuverability, particularly at lower speeds.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 911 Targa 4 3.0 PDK was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of performance, comfort, and open-air driving enjoyment. Compared to the Targa 4S, the 3.0-liter variant offered a more accessible price point, making it attractive to a wider range of buyers. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for 911 buyers, was respectable for a sports car of its caliber, averaging around 24 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability has been generally good, consistent with Porsche’s reputation for engineering excellence. However, like all complex vehicles, preventative maintenance is crucial to ensure long-term reliability.
Legacy
The 911 Targa 4 3.0 PDK (992) represents a significant evolution of the Targa concept. The combination of the twin-turbocharged engine, PDK transmission, and all-wheel-drive system delivers a compelling driving experience. On the used car market, these models hold their value well, reflecting the enduring appeal of the 911 nameplate and the unique Targa design. The DKC engine has proven to be a robust and reliable unit, provided it has been properly maintained. As a result, the 992 Targa 4 3.0 PDK is likely to remain a desirable and collectible Porsche for years to come.
