2002 Porsche 911 Targa (996, facelift 2001) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Porsche 911 Targa (996 facelift, 2002-2005) ranges between 1440 to 1495 kg (3175 to 3295 lbs), while the maximum weight ranges from 1845 to 1900 kg (4069 to 4189 lbs). This relatively lightweight construction for a sports car helps to deliver sharp handling and agility, critical attributes for Porsche's driving dynamics. The weight balance between front and rear is finely tuned to optimize traction, particularly since the car features a rear-mounted engine design. This weight range ensures that the car remains nimble, allowing responsive steering and quick acceleration. Additionally, the Targa's weight affects braking distances and fuel efficiency, balancing performance with everyday usability.

The Porsche 911 Targa (996 facelift, 2002-2005) offers a luggage capacity of 130 liters (approximately 4.6 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded. Since the 911 Targa is a sports car, it prioritizes performance and driving experience over cargo space. The limited luggage capacity is suitable for small suitcases, gym bags, or groceries, making it practical for short trips or daily errands. However, it is less ideal for long road trips requiring substantial luggage. The rear seats fold down to maximize space, but the overall cargo area remains modest compared to sedans or SUVs, positioning this vehicle more as a driver-focused car rather than a utility vehicle.

Yes, the Porsche 911 Targa (996 facelift, 2002-2005) is compact enough to fit into a standard residential garage comfortably. With a length of 4430 mm (174.4 inches), width of 1770 mm (69.7 inches), and height of 1305 mm (51.4 inches), it falls well within the dimension limits of typical garages designed for passenger vehicles. Its relatively narrow width allows adequate clearance on both sides, and its low height easily fits under standard garage door heights. Owners should ensure the garage door opening width and length are compatible, which is typical for standard garages, but the 911 Targa should pose no size-related parking issues.

The 2002-2005 Porsche 911 Targa (996 facelift) retains very similar overall dimensions compared to the original 996 Targa produced from 1998 to 2001. The facelift brought mainly cosmetic and mechanical updates rather than significant size changes. Both versions measure around 4430 mm in length and 1770 mm in width, with close height figures near 1300 mm. Weight variations occur due to equipment and improvements, with the facelift model slightly heavier due to added features and refined safety structures. The subtle dimensional consistency ensures the facelift maintains the classic 996 driving dynamics and iconic 911 proportions while benefiting from modernized performance and styling.

Compared to similar sports convertibles from the early 2000s, the Porsche 911 Targa (996 facelift) is compact and focused on lightweight agility. For example, models like the BMW Z4, Audi TT Roadster, and Mercedes SLK class have comparable lengths around 4.3 to 4.5 meters but differ in width and height. The 911 Targa's length of 4430 mm (174.4 inches) and width of 1770 mm (69.7 inches) place it in the compact grand touring category, often smaller and narrower than larger luxury convertibles but larger than smaller roadsters. Its Targa roof design adds a unique profile compared to fully open convertibles, which influences both usability and aesthetics, distinguishing it among its competitors.

The Porsche 911 Targa (996 facelift, 2002-2005) typically comes equipped with rims sized 7J x 17 inches in the front and 9J x 17 inches in the rear. The factory tire sizes are 205/50 R17 on the front and 255/40 R17 on the rear. These staggered sizes provide a wide rear contact patch beneficial for traction in rear-engine sports cars, improving acceleration and cornering grip. The 17-inch wheels and profile tires balance performance and comfort, delivering responsive handling while maintaining a reasonable ride quality for everyday driving. Larger rims could enhance sporty aesthetics but might result in a firmer ride. The factory setup is a well-engineered compromise between sporty response and daily usability.

The Porsche 911 Targa (996 facelift, 2002-2005) has a height of 1305 mm (51.4 inches). This low height is characteristic of sports cars designed to minimize aerodynamic drag and lower the center of gravity. A lower center of gravity improves cornering stability and reduces body roll, enhancing the car's agility on twisty roads and tracks. Additionally, the modest height reduces frontal area, which helps the 911 slice through the air more efficiently, improving high-speed stability and fuel efficiency. Despite the retractable Targa roof, the design maintains aerodynamic integrity, balancing open-air driving enjoyment with performance.

The width of the 2002-2005 Porsche 911 Targa (996 facelift) measures 1770 mm (69.7 inches). This relatively wide stance enhances lateral stability, especially during cornering and high-speed maneuvers. A wider track allows the tires to maintain better ground contact and helps distribute weight more evenly when subjected to lateral forces. This contributes to the vehicle's exceptional handling characteristics, a hallmark of the 911 series. The width also improves road presence without making the car unwieldy in urban environments or tight parking spaces. Overall, this dimension supports both sporty performance and everyday drivability.

The Porsche 911 Targa (996 facelift, 2002-2005) represents an important evolution in the 911 lineage. It was part of the 996 generation facelift, which introduced subtle styling changes such as redesigned headlights and updated interiors, refining the controversial original 996 design while preserving its modern essence. The Targa model notably features a unique retractable glass roof that combines the open-air experience of a convertible with the structural rigidity of a coupe, distinguishing it from both the coupe and traditional cabriolet models. Mechanically, the facelift brought improved engines with enhanced performance and emissions controls, making it more refined. This blend of style, performance, and practicality cements the 996 Targa facelift as a memorable member of the 911 family.