Why Porsche Has Always Understood the Joy of Open-Top Motoring

If you’ve watched our latest showroom video above, you’ll know we currently have a wonderful collection of open-top Porsches in stock. From a classic 911 Targa through to 991 Cabriolets, modern 991 Targas and Boxsters spanning several generations, it struck me just how committed Porsche has always been to the pleasure of open-air driving.

The video itself was filmed by Lee Sibley from 9WERKS TV, who regularly visits what we affectionately call our Porsche toy shop here at Williams Crawford. If you’re passionate about Porsche and haven’t already discovered Lee’s YouTube channel, I’d highly recommend subscribing. His knowledge, enthusiasm and appreciation of the marque make it one of the best Porsche channels available.

Watching the cars together reminded me that open-top motoring has always been part of Porsche’s DNA.

More Than Just Taking the Roof Off

Many manufacturers build convertibles simply by removing the roof from an existing model.

Porsche has always approached things differently.

The 356 Speedster became an icon in the 1950s, offering lightweight, uncomplicated sports car motoring. Then came the 911 Targa in the late 1960s, created as an innovative answer to changing safety legislation while still allowing owners to enjoy fresh-air driving.

Since then, every generation of 911 has offered an open top option, while the arrival of the Boxster in the 1990s introduced an entirely new audience to open-top Porsche ownership.

Today, whether you prefer a classic air-cooled 911 or a modern water-cooled Porsche, there’s an open-top model to suit almost every taste and budget.

Why Do People Love Them?

It’s difficult to explain until you’ve lived with one.

Driving with the roof down changes your whole relationship with the journey.

You hear more of the engine. You notice the changing seasons, the countryside, the sea air and even the smell of freshly cut grass on a summer evening. You’re no longer separated from the world around you; you’re part of it.

Many owners tell us they don’t necessarily drive any further than before.

They simply enjoy every mile a little more.

The destination almost becomes secondary.

The Boxster – One of Porsche’s Best Everyday Cars

The Boxster deserves a special mention because it’s often underestimated.

For many people, it represents one of the easiest Porsche sports cars to own.

Thanks to its mid-engined design, it offers luggage compartments both at the front and the rear. That means there’s enough room for a weekend away, a holiday tour or simply the weekly shopping.

It’s comfortable, economical by Porsche standards and remarkably practical.

Many owners use them every day, and once you’ve lived with one it’s easy to understand why.

It remains one of the best-value sports cars Porsche has ever built.

The 911 – Sports Car and Grand Tourer

The 911 Cabriolet and Targa offer something slightly different.

Those occasional rear seats might not accommodate adults for long journeys, but they’re incredibly useful. Children fit comfortably, and when you’re travelling alone they become the perfect place for coats, overnight bags, shopping or camera equipment.

It’s this versatility that has always made the 911 stand apart from many other sports cars.

You can drive it to work during the week, tour Europe during the summer and still enjoy one of the world’s great sports cars whenever the road opens up.

Very few cars can genuinely do all three.

Targa or Cabriolet?

It’s a question we’re often asked.

The Cabriolet gives you the fullest open-air experience. Roof down, the sky above and the unmistakable sound of a flat-six behind you.

The Targa offers something different.

Its distinctive profile has become one of Porsche’s most recognisable designs. Modern Targas provide much of the refinement of the Coupé while still allowing you to enjoy open-top motoring at the touch of a button.

Neither is better.

They’re simply different expressions of the same philosophy.

Buying Well Matters

As with any Porsche, buying on condition is far more important than buying on age or mileage alone.

Roof mechanisms should operate correctly, drain channels should be kept clear and service history should demonstrate regular maintenance.

A properly maintained Porsche convertible will provide years of dependable enjoyment.

That’s why buying from a specialist who understands these cars can make such a difference. Preparation, inspection and advice are just as important as the car itself.

Which One Would I Choose?

That’s the difficult question.

The Boxster offers exceptional value and astonishing practicality.

The 911 Cabriolet is perhaps the perfect all-round sports car.

The Targa remains one of the most elegant shapes Porsche has ever created.

Fortunately, you don’t have to choose based on someone else’s opinion.

Come and drive them.

Come and Watch the Video

This latest showroom video gives you a closer look at the wonderful collection of open-top Porsches currently available at Williams Crawford.

Whether you’ve always fancied a classic 911 Targa, are considering your first Boxster or have your eye on a modern 991 Cabriolet, there’s something here for every Porsche enthusiast.

Watch the video, subscribe to Lee Sibley’s excellent 9WERKS YouTube channel, and if you’d like to experience one of these cars for yourself, we’d be delighted to welcome you to the showroom.

After all, some cars are measured by performance figures.

Open-top Porsches are measured by the smile they put on your face.