2015 Porsche 911 Targa (991) 4 GTS 3.8 (430 Hp)

The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS 3.8 (430 Hp) represents a compelling blend of performance, open-air driving enjoyment, and everyday usability within the 991 generation of the iconic 911. Introduced for the 2015 model year, it occupied a premium position in the Targa lineup, slotting above the standard Targa 4 and offering a significant performance upgrade over those models. The 991 generation, produced from 2011 to 2019, saw Porsche refine the 911 formula with a focus on increased efficiency, improved technology, and enhanced driving dynamics. The Targa variant, with its automatically deploying roof bar and wraparound rear window, continued to offer a unique take on the 911 experience, combining the feel of a coupe with the open-air freedom of a convertible.

Technical Specifications

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

At the heart of the 911 Targa 4 GTS lies the MA1.01 engine, a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six. This engine is a direct descendant of the powerplant found in the 991 Carrera S, but with significant enhancements to deliver the GTS’s increased performance. These enhancements included a revised intake system, a modified exhaust system, and recalibrated engine management software. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimal combustion. The valvetrain features four valves per cylinder, contributing to the engine’s high-revving nature and impressive power output. The engine’s flat-six configuration, also known as a boxer engine, provides a low center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling. The 430 horsepower is achieved at 7,500 rpm, while the 440 Nm (324.53 lb-ft) of torque peaks at 5,750 rpm. The standard transmission for the 911 Targa 4 GTS was a seven-speed manual, offering precise gear changes and a direct connection to the engine. A seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch automatic transmission was also available as an option, providing incredibly fast and smooth shifts.

Driving Characteristics

The 911 Targa 4 GTS, even with the manual transmission, delivers a thrilling driving experience. The 3.8-liter engine provides ample power throughout the rev range, with a noticeable surge as the engine approaches its peak horsepower. The all-wheel-drive system ensures excellent traction, particularly in challenging conditions. Compared to the standard Targa 4, the GTS offers a more engaging and responsive driving experience, thanks to its increased power and sport-tuned suspension. The manual transmission’s gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s power delivery, allowing for precise control and spirited acceleration. While not as brutally fast as the 911 Turbo models, the Targa 4 GTS provides a satisfying balance of performance and usability. The Targa top mechanism, while adding some weight, does not significantly detract from the car’s handling characteristics.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The 911 Targa 4 GTS came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including a sport exhaust system, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), and a sport steering wheel. Interior appointments included leather upholstery, sport seats, and aluminum trim. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a Bose audio system, and various customization options for the interior and exterior. The GTS trim level generally included features that were optional on lower trims, making it a well-equipped and desirable variant.

Chassis & Braking

The 911 Targa 4 GTS utilizes a sophisticated chassis design, featuring an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. The PASM system allows the driver to adjust the suspension stiffness, providing a comfortable ride for everyday driving or a more firm and controlled feel for spirited driving. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The ABS system ensures optimal braking performance in a variety of conditions. The GTS model also featured a slightly lowered ride height compared to the standard Targa 4, further enhancing its handling characteristics.

Market Reception & Comparison

The 911 Targa 4 GTS was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, handling, and overall driving experience. It was often lauded as a sweet spot in the 991 Targa lineup, offering a significant performance upgrade over the standard Targa 4 without the extreme price tag of the Turbo models. Fuel economy was respectable for a high-performance sports car, with combined fuel consumption rated at around 23.5 US mpg. Reliability has generally been good, although maintenance costs can be high, as with any Porsche. Compared to the Carrera S, the Targa 4 GTS offered a unique open-air driving experience, albeit with a slightly higher weight and a more complex roof mechanism.

Legacy

The 911 Targa 4 GTS (991) has established itself as a desirable and collectible variant within the 991 generation. Its combination of performance, style, and open-air driving enjoyment continues to appeal to enthusiasts. The MA1.01 engine is known for its reliability and durability, provided it is properly maintained. On the used car market, these models command a premium price, reflecting their desirability and limited production numbers. The 911 Targa 4 GTS represents a high point in the evolution of the 911 Targa, offering a compelling blend of Porsche’s iconic design and engineering prowess.