With the change of every model year, manufacturers must put their best foot forward with the motoring press. For Porsche the expectations are higher than most. They must simultaneously evolve and innovate without disappointing those critics who will describe to faithful loyalists how the newest 911 performs. Naturally, these press cars are some of the first off the assembly line, highly optioned with new technology, with carefully chosen colors inside and out to highlight every fresh curve and nuance.

The 911 Targa 4S itself is one of the most distinctive 997.2 models. Bridging the line between 911 Coupe and Cabriolet, its panoramic glass roof and opening rear hatch make it unlike any other 911. Beyond its clever roof system, the “S” specification brought the larger 3.8-liter flat-six and wider bodywork, giving the Targa genuine performance credentials to match its style and usability. Rarer than either coupes or cabriolets of the same generation, the Targa 4S appealed to a select clientele seeking individuality without compromise.

Finished in the famous 997-generation Communication Color of Nordic Gold Metallic, this 2009 911 Targa 4S was retained by the factory for marketing and press purposes optioned as a “741 - Press Car” and registered on Porsche's famous “S-GO” number plates. In fact, the Targa retains its original service book with first delivery to “Porscheplatz 1” on 14 July 2008 and service notations at Werk 2 until July 2009. It is highly likely that it was one of the first 911s fitted with the new “MA101” naturally aspirated 3.8-liter flat-six producing 385 PS mated to an optional seven-speed PDK transmission. As a Press Car the Targa was highly optioned with a Full Leather in Sea Blue, Heated Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, Rear Window Wiper, ParkAssist System, Sport Chrono Package Plus, PCM Voice Control, Bose High End Sound Package with Six-Disc CD/DVD Changer, Three-Spoke PDK Multifunction Steering Wheel in Smooth Leather, and Rear Center Console in Leather. The VIN Analytics Report notes “Additional Equipment” that includes Limited Slip Rear Differential, 19-inch Carrera S II wheels, and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM).

In 2010, this rare 997.2 Targa 4S, believed to be one of just 2,500 examples produced between 2009 and 2012, was acquired by its current owner via Porsche Zentrum Dresden with 25,745 kilometers. In their care for the past 15 years, the consignor notes that its regularly scheduled maintenance has been carried out with service invoices on file and available for review which include an April 2025 inspection, at which time a new battery was installed. In furtherance of its sporting credentials a Porsche factory sports exhaust system was retrofitted at an official Porsche Centre in November 2011 at 44,338 kilometers with the resulting tune noted as “fantastic.”

Today, this well-optioned Nordic Gold Metallic “Pre-Series” 997.2-generation 911 Targa 4S must be one of the most intriguing Porsche offerings of the late 2000s. It's a model that combines everyday practicality, technical sophistication, and unmistakable 911 character in a package both refined and exclusive. With Porsche factory ownership, Press Car specification, and a long-term current owner, it is one of the most compelling examples of its type to be found anywhere.