There are some cars that simply make you smile every time you look at them, and the Porsche 993 Targa is definitely one of them. Today I want to share with you a particularly lovely example – a 1996 Porsche 911 Targa – and explain why these cars have such enduring appeal.

The 993 generation has really come into its own in recent years. It’s the last of the air-cooled 911s, beautifully engineered, and full of the character that makes classic Porsche ownership so rewarding. And the Targa adds something special on top of that.

A Rare and Beautiful Colour

Let’s start with the colour, because this one is rather special. It’s finished in Zenith Blue, which has a subtle hint of purple in certain lights. It’s quite a rare colour and really suits the elegant shape of the 993.

Speaking of details, the Targa came with its own distinctive two-piece wheels, which were specially developed for this model. Quite often you’ll see these in tired condition, but on this car they’re in lovely shape and really complement the design.

Tiptronic or Manual – Both Work Beautifully

The 993 Targa was available with either a six-speed manual or Tiptronic automatic transmission.

This particular car is a Tiptronic, and personally I really like them in this context. The Targa isn’t a car that’s designed primarily for track work – although it’s perfectly capable of enjoying the occasional spirited drive. Instead, it’s a car designed to be enjoyed.

The Tiptronic gearbox simply makes the whole experience wonderfully easy and relaxed. It turns the car into something you can use effortlessly day-to-day while still delivering the classic 911 driving experience.

And that, for me, is what the Targa is all about: enjoying the car.

A Shape That Has Aged Beautifully

The 993 has one of the most admired silhouettes of any 911 generation.

This example has covered around 110,000 miles, and it’s a car we’ve known before. It’s authentic, original, and exactly the sort of car we like – something that has been enjoyed but remains beautifully preserved.

The 993 also introduced a number of refinements over earlier models. For example, it was the first 911 to feature flush-fitting glass, which improved aerodynamics and refinement. There’s also additional sealing around the windows, and on this Targa you get that wonderful panoramic roof design.

The Magic of the Targa Roof

The roof is what truly defines the 993 Targa.

Unlike earlier Targas with removable panels, the 993 uses a large sliding glass roof that transforms the car in seconds.

There are essentially three ways to enjoy it:

• Fully open – the glass panel slides back dramatically, creating an airy open-top feeling.
• Ventilation mode – a small front section lifts for gentle airflow.
• Fully closed coupe – the sliding headliner creates a traditional enclosed cabin.

It’s a brilliantly engineered system and incredibly versatile.

On a day like today, opening that huge glass panel makes the cabin feel light, airy and refreshing – almost like a convertible, but with the refinement and security of a coupe.

A Classic Porsche Interior

Inside, this car is finished in what appears to be marble grey leather, paired with a dark blue dashboard, door tops and trim.

Porsche offered remarkable levels of personalisation at the time, allowing buyers to tailor the interior exactly as they wished.

Of course, the traditional Porsche layout remains front and centre:

• Clear white-on-black instrumentation
• The classic central rev counter
• A Becker CDR-23 head unit
• Air conditioning
• Driver and passenger airbags

Everything feels purposeful, simple and beautifully engineered.

Performance and the Tiptronic Experience

The 993 Targa produces around 285 horsepower, with strong mid-range torque that makes it effortless to drive.

The Tiptronic gearbox deserves a quick explanation, because it’s cleverer than many people realise.

In automatic mode it behaves exactly as you’d expect – smooth, refined and easy. But behind the scenes it actually has five adaptive driving maps.

It constantly learns how you’re driving. If you’re driving gently, it shifts early for comfort and efficiency. If you become more enthusiastic, it adapts, holding gears longer and downshifting earlier for stronger engine braking.

If you wish, you can also take manual control by moving the lever across the gate or using the steering wheel controls.

Most of the time you don’t need to – the gearbox does an excellent job on its own.

A Wonderful Classic Porsche to Own

Cars like this are exactly why we love the 993 Targa.

They’re comfortable, engaging, beautifully built and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re cruising through town, exploring country roads, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon drive, they deliver the Porsche experience in a wonderfully relaxed way.

This particular example sits at around £50,000, prepared with our Stuttgart Pack, which includes comprehensive inspection, preparation, warranty and ongoing support.

For me, it’s a very easy recommendation.

The 993 Targa is a rare and very special 911, and examples like this capture everything that makes classic Porsche ownership so enjoyable.

And I have to say – standing here with it – I’m reminded once again how lucky I am to spend my days around cars like these.

Beautiful cars, aren’t they?

WATCH ADRIAN’S REVIEW OF THE 993 BELOW….