1989-1993 Porsche 911 Targa (964) Carrera 2 3.6 (250 Hp) Tiptronic

The Porsche 911 Targa (964) Carrera 2 3.6, equipped with the Tiptronic transmission, represents a significant evolution in the iconic 911 lineage. Produced between 1989 and December 1993, this variant occupied a middle ground within the 964 generation, offering a blend of performance and convenience. It was positioned above the base Carrera 2 models with the smaller 3.6-liter engine and below the more focused and expensive Carrera 4 and Turbo variants. The 964 generation itself was a crucial step in modernizing the 911, addressing criticisms of the preceding 3.2 Carrera while retaining the core characteristics that defined the model for decades.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

At the heart of the 964 Carrera 2 3.6 Tiptronic lies the M64.02, a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated flat-six engine. This engine represented a significant increase in displacement over the 3.2-liter engines found in earlier 911s. The M64.02 featured multi-port fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design per cylinder bank, and a compression ratio of 11.3:1. These specifications contributed to its output of 250 horsepower at 6100 rpm and 310 Nm (228.64 lb-ft) of torque at 4800 rpm. The engine’s dry-sump lubrication system, a hallmark of Porsche engineering, ensured reliable oil supply even under demanding driving conditions. Paired with this engine was the Tiptronic four-speed automatic transmission. This wasn’t a conventional automatic; it allowed for driver-selected gear changes via buttons on the steering wheel, offering a degree of control not found in traditional automatics. The transmission featured adaptive shift programming, adjusting shift points based on driving style.

Driving Characteristics

The 964 Carrera 2 3.6 Tiptronic offered a distinct driving experience compared to its manual transmission counterparts and other 964 variants. While the Tiptronic transmission provided convenience, it did introduce a slight performance penalty. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 6.3 seconds, slightly slower than the manual version. The automatic transmission’s shift logic, while improved over earlier iterations, wasn’t as immediate or engaging as a skilled driver using a manual gearbox. However, the Tiptronic allowed drivers to enjoy the 911’s handling characteristics without the constant need to shift. The 3.6-liter engine delivered a broad torque curve, providing ample power for everyday driving and spirited acceleration. The rear-wheel-drive layout and the 911’s inherent balance made for a rewarding driving experience, though it required respect and careful throttle control, especially in adverse conditions.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Carrera 2 3.6 Tiptronic came standard with a well-appointed interior. Upholstery typically consisted of leather seats, with options for different colors and materials. The dashboard featured a classic 911 layout with analog gauges, including a speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure gauge, and oil temperature gauge. Standard equipment included power windows, central locking, and an upgraded sound system. Optional extras were plentiful, including a sunroof, limited-slip differential, sport suspension, and various interior trim packages. The Targa top, a defining feature of this variant, offered an open-air driving experience while maintaining a degree of structural rigidity.

Chassis & Braking

The 964 Carrera 2 3.6 Tiptronic utilized a torsion bar suspension system, a traditional Porsche design. This system provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The front suspension featured McPherson struts with a transverse stabilizer, while the rear suspension 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 Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The ABS system helped to maintain stability during hard braking. The car’s relatively light curb weight of 1380 kg (3042.38 lbs) contributed to its agile handling.

Market Reception & Comparison

The 964 Carrera 2 3.6 Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its improved performance, refined interior, and overall driving experience. However, some critics noted that the Tiptronic transmission didn’t fully capture the engaging feel of the manual gearbox. Compared to the base Carrera 2 with the smaller engine, the 3.6-liter version offered a noticeable performance upgrade. Compared to the Carrera 4, which featured all-wheel drive, the Carrera 2 was lighter and more agile, but offered less traction in slippery conditions. Fuel economy was reasonable for a sports car of its era, averaging around 17.1 l/100 km (13.8 US mpg) in urban driving and 7.9-9.6 l/100 km (29.8 – 24.5 US mpg) on the highway.

Legacy

The 964 Carrera 2 3.6 Tiptronic has proven to be a reliable and desirable classic Porsche. The M64.02 engine is known for its durability, and the Tiptronic transmission, while not as sought-after as the manual, has also proven to be relatively robust. Today, these cars are highly regarded by collectors and enthusiasts. Well-maintained examples command strong prices in the used car market. The 964 generation, and the Carrera 2 3.6 Tiptronic in particular, represents a pivotal moment in the 911’s history, bridging the gap between the classic air-cooled era and the modern water-cooled era.