1987 Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2-Litre Targa

• Matching numbers
• G50 example
• Engine rebuilt in 2010 at 85,800 miles
• Very well maintained (huge file)

Porsche revived the evocative Carrera name - previously used for the competition orientated versions of the preceding 356 model - for its luxuriously equipped, top-of-the-range 911 in 1973, applying the title to all 911 variants, co-incidentally with the introduction of the 3.2-litre engine, from the start of the 1984 model year. The revived name was part of a major revamp of the long-running 911, now selling better than ever, development of which had slowed while Porsche concentrated on meeting the ever increasing demand.

Although it remained an air-cooled 'flat six', the '3.2' motor was 80% new and incorporated an effective cam chain tensioner and associated lubrication system that at last addressed a perennial 911 shortcoming. An ECU controlled the fuel and ignition systems for the first time on a 911, enabling the engine to be both more powerful and less thirsty. As a result, this enlarged and extensively revised power plant now produced 231bhp, 27 horsepower up on its predecessor, endowing the Carrera with a level of performance approaching that of the original 911 Turbo of 1974, the bald statistics being a 0-60mph time of 5.3 seconds and a top speed of 152mph (244km/h) with 100mph (160km/h) reachable in a breathtaking 13.6 seconds.

No major changes were made to the bodyshell, though there was a new front spoiler with integral fog lamps, while the number of models on offer remained at three: Coupé, Targa, and Cabriolet. Thirty-plus years on, the Carrera 3.2 is now highly sought after and for very good reason, though finding one is not that easy.

Finished in classic Grand Prix White with black roof and grey/blue interior, this Targa model was delivered new in County Antrim, Northern Ireland by Isaac Agnew Porsche, and being a later model has the improved G50 five-speed manual transmission. Its first owner did not stint on the 'extras', the list of desirable factory-fitted options running to no fewer than 14 items (list available).

Circa 1988 the car was brought to mainland UK having covered approximately 10,000 miles. It comes with a most substantial maintenance history from new supporting mileage and condition, including MoTs from 1995 and invoices from 1991 to date. Points to note are repairs to the 'kidney bowl' areas around 2006; Targa roof refurbishment by JZM; and an engine rebuild in 2010 at 85,800 miles (the current odometer reading is 95,700 miles). The Porsche had belonged to the previous owner for 23 years and was purchased at 74,520 miles.

A highly original and well-presented example, the car is said to drive really well, the gearbox shifting smoothly and the lights, mirrors, seats and window electrics operating as they should. The paintwork is neat and the interior clean, with only a little wear, primarily to the velour on the driver's seat.

Accompanying paperwork includes the original service book and handbook, a V5C registration document, and a Certificate of Authenticity confirming matching numbers.