Porsche 911 S

Perhaps more critically for the road, bigger capacity also equalled more torque, as the previous 2-litre S engines were starting to get rather peaky in terms of power delivery.

Compared to most contemporary iron-age power units, the 911s 2.2 flat-six was absolutely cutting edge, with weight saving magnesium crank cases, forged steel crankshaft and cast aluminium alloy pistons. Bosch mechanical fuel injection was a precision instrument in a world of carburettors, as was a five-speed gearbox, the 2.2 S notable as the last 911 equipped with the dogleg 901 unit, before the arrival of the more conventional Type 915 ‘box which followed with the 2.4 S in 1972.

As per the 911 range up to this point, the S was available as a Coupe, or the perhaps more glamorous Targa, with its safety inspired roll hoop and removeable roof panel, which is exactly what we currently have here in the Paul Stephens showroom.

While this 911 Targa has clearly been cherished throughout its 52-years, it would be unrealistic to expect it to be entirely original. A full body, interior and partial mechanical restoration was carried out in 2006 by respected Porsche experts, Marque Motors in Portland Oregon. ‘Partial mechanical restoration’ is perhaps to do a disservice given that only the crankcase remained unopened, in deference to the healthy compression within. And needless to say, all numbers match.

While the interior is largely restored standard, the seats were replaced and trimmed in black leather with hounds tooth inserts.

Since being in the UK, Autofarm have regularly serviced and worked through any issues, to the point where this 911 2.2 S Targa is pretty much spot on. We can only report as we find, but the Tangerine paintwork is still in excellent order, as is the black interior. The Fuchs wheels are finished and detailed as per factory spec, and ride on period correct Michelin X radials. The Targa roof panel is in good order and fits snugly, for those rare occasions when the sun isn’t shining!

DRIVETIME
It’s the full classic 911 experience, with added Targa character.

Narrow body 911s on skinny 15in wheels have a feel and movement, all of their own. These are 911s that you guide rather than hustle, using your finger tips and palm of the hand to steer. There’s nothing quite like it.

The dogleg (back for first, forward for second etc) ‘box is precise and rewarding to use, while the engine has more than enough get up and go to keep pace with modern motoring, mixing strong torque with top-end bite.

How you drive it is up to you. It will do the relaxed Targa cruise – or it will jump to it for a more spirited adventure.

OUR THOUGHTS
It’s hard to think of a more useable, classic 911 than a Targa. And while almost any classic Targa ticks the box, a 2.2 S, surely ticks all the boxes and more. There’s a long summer stretching out ahead, just think of the driving adventures you could have…