Lot 240: 1967 Porsche 912 Soft Window Targa

912 and 911 production began in 1965 and a total of some 2,562 912 Targa's were produced, less than 8 percent of all of the total 912 production. As Porsche was discontinuing the 356 cabriolet model in 1965, the first prototype was shown at the 1965 Frankfurt Motor Show, with the first 10 cars off the assembly line in December 1966, producing the first ten 911 Targa's, and at least one 912 Targa. Interestingly the early factory workshop manuals called the Targa a "cabriolet", but absent was the fabric top and frame mechanism. Instead, a flat "safety hoop" roll bar supported both a lift-off folding top, and a separate rear window. The first Targas first came equipped with flexible plastic rear windows or 'soft-windows' as they became known, which opened with a zip. This Targa top and fold down rear gave the car a variety of different configurations, which in there day were unique to the car. It proved to be an instant success, but unfortunately short lived with production ceasing in 1969, today the cars are much sort after and are valued highly amongst collectors and enthusiast alike. This fine example finished in red with a black interior has recently come to Europe from the USA where it had undergone a fresh cosmetic and mechanical restoration. Fitted with a Nardi steering wheel the vendor informs us that the interior and chrome work is also in good condition and matches the new paint work. A lovely rust free example of these super little cars, it is ready to be road registered as the EU taxes have been paid.