Porsche's all-paw Targas on the way

Porsche Australia has announced the all-wheel drive 911 Targa 4 and 4S models will be available locally late this year. There's also word the 911 GT3 will follow, and the 911 GT3 RS early 2007.

The Targa 4 and 4S feature a large glass roof and gas strut-operated, upward-lifting rear window. The glass roof panel can be retracted by up to half a meter in seven seconds, regardless of road speed, and has a newly developed sealing system to prevent wind noise.

Porsche says a wind deflector minimises turbulence inside the car and occupants are further protected from the elements by a semi-translucent sunblind. The glass roof and roller blind are operated by a switch on the central console.

The Targa 4 is powered by Porsche's 3.6-litre flat-six engine, rated at 239kW/370Nm and good for 0 to 100km/h in 5.3sec. The more powerful S variant features the 3.8-litre engine producing 261kW and 400Nm, enabling a 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 4.9sec. Top speed is 288km/h.

Standard transmission is a six-speed manual gearbox with Porsche’s five-speed Tiptronic S automatic available as an option.

Both the Carrera 4 and 4S use a viscous multi-plate clutch, which Porsche says applies between five and 40 per cent of the driving power to the front axles at all times depending on driving conditions.

Porsche Australia is taking orders now but don't expect delivery 'til "very late" this year. Prices start at $233,600 for the Targa 4 and $259,900 for the Targa 4S.