The Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 represents a sweet spot of the air-cooled era. It’s the ultimate evolution of the original 911, first launched in 1964, combining everyday usability with classic Porsche character.
The 911’s timeless and instantly recognisable silhouette afford it plenty of presence, enhanced here by the lift-out roof panel and brushed steel roll bar of the Targa version.
Beneath the ‘tea tray’ rear spoiler lurks a 3.2-litre flat-six – an engine revered for its durability, responsiveness and unmistakable air-cooled soundtrack.
A 231hp output is good for 152mph and a 0-62mph time of 6.3 seconds (although Autocar magazine managed it in 5.4 seconds, suggesting Zuffenhausen was characteristically conservative in its claim).
Open for business
Power delivery is smooth and linear, and the 911 offers a deeply engaging, analogue driving experience that modern cars simply can’t replicate. Its steering is full of feedback, its balance notably rear-biased, and every drive feels like an occasion.
Not only did the 911 Carrera 3.2 drive memorably, it also lasted well thanks to being galvanised from the factory. That treatment still pays dividends today.
The Targa roof adds another layer of appeal, allowing you to enjoy open-air motoring without sacrificing the integrity, refinement and security of a coupe.
Practical, quirky and endlessly rewarding to own, the Carrera 3.2 Targa is one of the most usable cars from what many consider the 911’s golden era.
Exceptional in the 80s
This lovely example, wearing oh-so-1980s Guards Red paint, was fitted from new with the desirable ‘G50’ manual gearbox. This employs a BorgWarner-designed synchromesh and a hydraulic clutch, making it quicker and more precise than the previous ‘915’ transmission.
Up for auction with Trade Classics, the 911 comes to market after 10 years of enthusiast ownership. Always garaged by its current keeper, it has 125,333 miles on the clock, along with an extensive MOT and service history.
The auction ends on Thursday 26 February 2026 at 19:00. Get bidding and good luck!
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