While driving the latest 911 Targa I shared a car with fellow journo (and former colleague) Adam Towler, and we came to the conclusion that as a product designed to appeal to Porsche’s new customers in China and Russia the Targa has to be admired, but not loved.
While Porsche is busy conquering new markets, it shouldn’t forget the enthusiasts. So after some mental doodling, how about this for the perfect (sub GT3) 911: the ‘997’ Clubsport.
It would have the new strengthened 345bhp 3.6-litre engine, two-wheel drive (but possibly in the wider four-wheel drive body), LSD, manual gearbox – or the option of PDK with proper fixed change paddles.
Weight would be down by about 50kg by culling sound insulation and less important trim, and it would get specifically-tuned passive dampers rather than electronically variable ones, a non-switchable sports exhaust.
And, while riding the fantasy spec, how about improved bushing to restore the steering feel of the pre-facelift 911. We’d finish it off with an alcantara steering wheel and gearlever, sports seats and a Clubsport button (to change PSM and ABS settings for track use, quicken the PDK shift and remove the kickdown). Visually it would be finished with a deeper front splitter, small fixed position ducktail rear spoiler and the option of solid colours only.
The price would be sub £70K and, as the company’s sales dip, it could be the perfect way to encourage some showroom traffic. Here’s hoping.