Porsche 911 Targa

The 2014 Porsche 911 Targa is taking a page from the past or, more specifically, a silver-colored roll bar. Spotted in Germany while undergoing testing ahead of its arrival next year, this Targa prototype offers the clearest preview we've seen of Porsche's latest sun-loving model. Unlike recent iterations of the 911 Targa, which have used a large retractable glass roof panel, this version appears to have a completely removable center section located between the windshield and roll bar.

2014 Porsche 911 Targa

This arrangement hasn't been used in nearly two decades – the 964 generation, built from 1989-1994, was the last to feature the 'classic' targa top. The first 911 Targa appeared in the late 1960s, and the model has played a vital role in terms of Porsche's U.S. sales ever since.

2014 Porsche 911 Targa

Modern Mechanicals Meet Retro Design
As we noted back in August 2011, the Targa hoop might also be available in a retro-themed brushed aluminum finish. Other colors could be optional, depending on the paint job and trim level chosen. Throw on a set of vintage Fuchs-style alloy wheels – along with an avocado green or pumpkin orange paintjob – and you'll have a thoroughly modern 911 with the retro-themed allure of a classic example (minus the twitchy swing-axle rear end).

2014 Porsche 911 Targa

Like the standard 911 coupe, the Targa will be available with a 350-bhp 3.4-liter or 400-bhp 3.6-liter flat-6 engine, coupled to either a 7-speed manual or 7-speed paddle-shift twin-clutch PDK transmission. An official debut early next year at Geneva Auto Show seems likely, with sales to follow shortly thereafter.