A Legacy Forged in Innovation: The 911’s Evolution
The Early Years
From the moment it graced the automotive world, the Porsche 911 has been synonymous with performance, iconic design, and a driving experience that has captivated enthusiasts for generations. Among the various iterations of this legendary sports car, the Targa variant holds a special place. Offering a unique blend of open-air enjoyment and coupe-like rigidity, the Porsche 911 Targa stands as a testament to Porsche’s engineering prowess and design innovation. This exploration delves into the heart of the 1987 Porsche 911 Targa, a model that represents a significant chapter in the 911’s storied history, examining its features, performance, and enduring appeal.
Evolution of the Classic
The journey of the Porsche 911 began in the early nineteen sixties, a period of significant change and innovation in the automotive landscape. Born from the need to replace the successful 356, the 911 debuted with a revolutionary concept: a rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration. This placement, coupled with a flat-six engine, gave the 911 its distinctive character and unique handling characteristics. This design approach was initially met with some skepticism, yet it quickly became a defining trait, setting the stage for the 911’s rise to iconic status. Early models, with their clean lines and distinctive silhouette, established the aesthetic foundation that would evolve over decades.
Progress and Refinement
Over time, Porsche refined and improved the 911, making constant adaptations to the engine, chassis, and interior. The company progressively increased engine displacement and introduced numerous enhancements to meet evolving performance standards and to meet the changing needs of the market. These advancements included improvements to braking systems, suspension, and overall build quality, ensuring that the 911 remained at the forefront of sports car design and technology. Each iteration of the 911, from the early cars to the more modern versions, contributed to a legacy of performance, style, and driving pleasure.
The Birth of the Targa: A Design for a Changing World
The Regulatory Shift
The creation of the Targa body style was, in part, a response to the changing regulatory environment in the United States. Potential safety regulations were looming, which could have threatened the future of convertible cars. In response, Porsche developed a unique solution: a removable roof panel paired with a prominent roll bar. This design offered the open-air experience of a convertible while still meeting structural safety requirements. The roll bar, with its distinctive brushed stainless steel finish, became a signature design element, immediately setting the Targa apart.
Distinctive Features
The Targa also introduced a large, wraparound rear window, which provided exceptional visibility and contributed to the car’s distinctive appearance. This design quickly gained favor among enthusiasts who valued the flexibility of open-air driving with the structural rigidity of a fixed-roof coupe. The Targa was not just a clever engineering solution; it was a bold statement about design and engineering, a statement that blended function and form.
Enduring Legacy
The Targa concept would endure, becoming an integral part of the 911’s identity. Subsequent generations of the 911 would incorporate the Targa design in various forms, but the initial creation remains iconic.
The 1987 Targa: A Combination of Performance and Style
Power and Performance
The 1987 Porsche 911 Targa represents a mature point in the model’s evolution. Featuring the 3.2-liter flat-six “Carrera” engine, this model delivered a compelling mix of power and responsiveness. The engine, which was a significant upgrade over earlier models, offered strong performance across the rev range and a thrilling engine note that has become synonymous with the Porsche experience.
The Carrera Engine
The Carrera engine produced a substantial amount of power, contributing to impressive acceleration and a high top speed. The 1987 Targa was capable of sprinting from zero to sixty miles per hour in a time that was competitive for the era, and it offered engaging performance on winding roads. This was achieved in part through careful tuning of the engine and incorporating advanced fuel injection systems.
Transmission Options
The transmission choices provided further flexibility. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a direct and engaging connection to the drivetrain. For drivers who preferred a more relaxed experience, an optional automatic transmission was available. This combination gave buyers the freedom to choose the driving style that best suited their preferences.
Design, Inside and Out
Exterior Elegance
The exterior design of the 1987 Targa remained true to the classic Porsche 911 silhouette, with its sweeping curves and iconic shape. The removable roof panel, the defining feature of the Targa, allowed drivers to quickly convert the car into an open-air cruiser. The roll bar, with its distinctive stainless steel finish, provided a visual contrast and a reminder of the car’s safety features. The iconic shape, with its front-mounted headlights and rear engine cover, immediately communicated its identity as a 911.
Color Choices
Various color options were available, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicles. From classic hues to more vibrant offerings, the color palette reflected Porsche’s attention to design.
Interior Focus
Inside, the 1987 Targa offered a driver-focused cockpit. The seats, often crafted from leather or high-quality materials, provided excellent support. The dashboard layout was simple and functional, with clear instrumentation. The steering wheel was designed for a firm grip and precise control.
Amenities
The focus was on creating an environment where the driver could fully experience the car’s performance. This focus extended to the comfort and convenience features, such as air conditioning and power windows. The audio systems offered high fidelity sound and a pleasing audio experience for the driver and passengers.
The Driving Experience: A Symphony of Sound and Movement
On the Road
The 1987 Porsche 911 Targa offered a driving experience that was both engaging and rewarding. On the road, the car provided responsive handling and a sense of connection to the road. The steering, with its mechanical feel, provided precise feedback, allowing the driver to confidently maneuver the car through turns. The weight distribution, with the engine in the rear, contributed to distinctive driving dynamics, requiring a specific skill set and rewarding drivers with a sense of involvement.
The Engine’s Note
The engine’s power delivery created a visceral connection, with the engine sound becoming an integral part of the experience. The flat-six engine note, a distinctive sound, filled the cabin and added to the overall excitement.
Open-Air Enjoyment
With the Targa roof panel removed, the driving experience became even more immersive. The open-air environment enhanced the sense of speed and allowed drivers to fully appreciate the surrounding scenery. Wind noise, of course, was present, but this was often considered part of the open-air charm. The driver and passengers could fully enjoy the wind, sunshine, and ambient noises, making it one of the most enjoyable aspects of the driving experience.
Owning and Appreciating the Classic
Maintenance and Reliability
The 1987 Porsche 911 Targa, like its brethren, is known for its reliability and solid build quality. However, as these cars age, it is essential to recognize the need for maintenance and proper care. Common issues can include wear and tear on the engine, the suspension, and electrical components. Regular maintenance, using genuine Porsche parts and servicing from qualified mechanics, will allow the car to remain in top form.
Valuable Collectible
The 1987 Porsche 911 Targa is a car that is highly valued by collectors and enthusiasts. Several factors contribute to its enduring appeal and value. These include its iconic design, the engaging driving experience, the inherent reliability, and the increasing rarity of well-maintained examples. The 911 is, after all, a cornerstone of the sports car world.
Market Factors
The values of these cars can vary widely, depending on several factors, including condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Originality is also a key consideration for collectors, and cars that are well-maintained, with original features, tend to command higher prices. The rising interest in classic cars has further bolstered the demand for 1987 Targas, contributing to their desirability.
Buying a 1987 Targa
Pre-Purchase Checklist
For those who are considering purchasing a 1987 Porsche 911 Targa, it is important to carefully assess several factors. A thorough inspection of the car’s condition is essential, looking for any signs of rust, wear, or past damage. Verifying its maintenance history and documentation is also crucial. Ensure the car has received regular servicing throughout its life, which will give you peace of mind that the car has been properly maintained. Also, check to see if the car is original, as modified cars may not be as valuable as original ones.
The Enduring Legacy
The 1987 Porsche 911 Targa represents a perfect blend of classic design, engaging performance, and open-air driving. Its combination of heritage, performance, and timeless appeal makes it a sought-after classic car. The 911 Targa of the eighties and beyond continues to be a favorite, providing a thrilling driving experience and embodying the spirit of Porsche. It is a car that continues to resonate with enthusiasts, reminding us of the joy of driving and the enduring legacy of a true automotive icon. The Porsche 911 Targa’s story, from its innovative inception to its current status as a beloved classic, is a narrative of engineering, design, and a love of driving. It’s a testament to the enduring allure of the Porsche 911.
