Karkrub Review
Specs of the Car:
The 1978 Porsche 911 Targa is a timeless classic, embodying German engineering finesse. It’s powered by an air-cooled, flat-six cylinder engine, producing around 172 to 210 horsepower, depending on the specific variant. With a top speed of approximately 139 mph, the car can sprint from 0-60 mph in about 6.3 to 7.3 seconds. Featuring a 5-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, four-wheel independent suspension, and disk brakes on all four corners, the 911 Targa offers an authentic and raw driving experience.
The History of the Model:
The Porsche 911 was introduced in 1964 as the successor to the Porsche 356. The name “Targa” originated from Porsche’s success at the Targa Florio race. The 911 Targa was introduced in 1967 and instantly became a hit due to its distinct design. The ’78 model continued this legacy, offering a removable roof section and a roll-over bar, giving it a unique look between a coupe and a full convertible.
The Development of the Model:
Over the years, the 911 Targa went through numerous iterations and refinements. By 1978, Porsche had upgraded the engine, improved the suspension, and enhanced the interior. The most prominent change was the introduction of the 3.0-liter engine, which replaced the older 2.7-liter. This engine upgrade provided a significant boost in power and reliability. Also, the galvanized bodies introduced in the late ’70s improved resistance to rust, addressing a significant issue faced by earlier models.
Journalist Reviews at the Time of Release:
When released, the 1978 Porsche 911 Targa garnered mixed reactions from journalists. While many praised its distinctive design, build quality, and driving dynamics, some criticized it for its relatively high price tag compared to its competitors. The increase in power and handling improvements were noted positively, with many journalists highlighting its genuine road presence and iconic design. Yet, some felt that Porsche had room for improvement in terms of interior ergonomics and modern-day conveniences.
Types of Modifications Typically Done:
The 1978 Porsche 911 Targa has always been a favorite among enthusiasts, leading to a variety of modifications over the years. Common modifications include:
- Engine Upgrades: Many owners upgrade to turbochargers or make changes to the engine internals for increased power and performance.
- Suspension: Upgraded shocks, springs, and sway bars are commonly installed to enhance the car’s handling and driving dynamics.
- Brake Upgrades: Given the car’s performance potential, many choose to upgrade the brakes to modern standards with larger rotors and high-performance pads.
- Interior Refinements: Though the 911 Targa has a classic charm, some owners choose to retrofit modern amenities, like updated audio systems or digital gauges.
- Exterior Changes: While many purists prefer to keep the original look, some owners opt for modern wheels, LED lighting, or aftermarket body kits to give the car a fresh appearance.
In conclusion, the 1978 Porsche 911 Targa stands as a testament to Porsche’s enduring legacy of engineering and design prowess. While it may have received a mixed reception upon its initial release, its timeless design and unparalleled driving experience have cemented its place in automotive history.
Karkrub Score: 1978 Porsche 911 Targa
Design: 9/10
The 1978 Porsche 911 Targa is undeniably iconic in its design. With its signature roll-over bar and removable roof, it strikes a perfect balance between a coupe and a full convertible. Its silhouette is easily recognizable, and the design has aged gracefully over the years. It captures the spirit of the era while maintaining a timeless appeal.
Power: 7.5/10
While the 3.0-liter engine marked a significant upgrade from its predecessor, providing around 172 to 210 horsepower, it was not the most powerful sports car of its era. The power was adequate, with reasonable acceleration figures, but by modern standards or when compared to some contemporaries, it might lack a bit in sheer grunt.
Fun: 9/10
Driving a 1978 911 Targa is a visceral experience. The combination of the air-cooled engine’s unique sound, the raw feedback from the steering, and the sheer pleasure of open-top driving on a sunny day make this car an absolute joy on winding roads.
Comfort: 6.5/10
The 911 Targa, while being a sports car, offers a relatively comfortable driving experience, especially when compared to some race-derived cars of its time. However, the lack of modern amenities, ergonomic considerations, and a slightly firm ride (by today’s standards) might make longer journeys a bit taxing.
Reliability: 7/10
The introduction of the galvanized bodies in the late ’70s was a significant step forward in preventing rust, a notorious issue with older models. The 3.0-liter engine also enhanced reliability. However, as with any classic car, maintenance can be more demanding compared to modern vehicles.
Safety: 5/10
By modern standards, the safety features of the 1978 Porsche 911 Targa are minimal. While the roll-over bar added some protection in the event of a rollover accident, the car lacks many of the advanced safety systems present in today’s vehicles. Its safety score reflects its age and the standards of its era.
Value: 8.5/10
Given its iconic status, timeless design, and the pleasure of driving such a classic machine, the 1978 Porsche 911 Targa has appreciated in value over the years. As a collector’s item and a symbol of automotive history, it offers good value, especially when its potential future appreciation is considered. However, initial costs, maintenance, and parts can be high.
Average Score: 7.5/10
The 1978 Porsche 911 Targa stands as a testament to a bygone era of motoring, where driving engagement and design purity were paramount. While it might not meet modern standards in some categories, its overall appeal, historical significance, and the sheer pleasure of driving make it a beloved classic in the automotive world.
Leave a Reply