2021 Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition (992.1) – Ultimate Guide
The Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition is a love letter to early-era Porsches—1950s/early-’60s cues wrapped around the full modernity of the 992 platform. It pairs the Targa’s glamorous open-air format with retro color/trim, gold script, corduroy upholstery, historic crests, and an edition cap of 992 cars worldwide—yes, matching the internal model code. Underneath the nostalgia sits the familiar 992 Targa 4S powertrain: a 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six with 443 hp, AWD, and either an 8-speed PDK or optional 7-speed manual (rare on a modern Turbo-bodied 992). Porsche also baked in Sport Chrono and the expected suite of 992 chassis tech, so this isn’t a mere appearance pack—it’s a fully featured Targa 4S with bespoke details and collector cachet.
Porsche introduced the Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition on June 1, 2020 for MY2021—the first of four special Heritage Design models curated by Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. The concept was simple and seductive: reinterpret authentic historical elements (liveries, badges, fabrics) using modern materials and craftsmanship, and apply them to a contemporary 911. The Heritage badge on the rear grille recalls the 356’s 100,000-km quality seal; period-correct 1963 Porsche crests adorn the nose, hub caps, key, and interior. The launch color Cherry Metallic became the poster hue, though several other colors were offered. Porsche capped production at 992 units worldwide and priced U.S. cars from $180,600 before delivery.
Inside Porsche’s broader strategy, the Targa HDE signaled a formal “lifestyle” dimension to the 911 range—distinct from GT or Turbo performance lines—prioritizing craftsmanship, heritage references, and visual theater without giving up the 992’s daily polish. A matching Porsche Design chronograph, also limited to 992 pieces and sold only to buyers of the car, reinforced the “complete object” vibe and has since become a sought-after accessory in its own right.
Design: Retro, Done By the People Who Own the Archive
A Heritage Design 911 lives or dies on its details, and the Targa 4S HDE is meticulous:
- Exterior: optional spear-shaped fender graphics (a nod to early Porsche competition cars), painted roundel numbers, gold logos, and the “Porsche Heritage” deck-grille badge. Standard 20/21-inch Carrera Exclusive Design wheels and black-painted calipers complement the look.
- Interior: two-tone leather (e.g., Bordeaux Red with OLEA Club Leather in Atacama Beige, or Black/Atacama Beige), corduroy seat and door inserts (a direct callback to the 356), green-backlit tach and Sport Chrono stopwatch, perforated headliner, extensive Exclusive Manufaktur leather, and a metal plaque with your car’s unique edition number.
- Crests & badges: the 1963 Porsche crest appears throughout; it’s a subtle but constant reminder you’re in a historically charged model.
The net effect is not cosplay; it’s curated design work by the brand’s own stylists and upholsterers, executed with modern tolerances.
Drivetrain & Chassis
Mechanically, this is a 992.1 Targa 4S—which is to say quick, sure-footed, and versatile:
- Engine: 3.0-liter twin-turbo flat-six, 443 hp, 390 lb-ft. With PDK and Sport Chrono, Porsche quotes 0–60 mph in 3.4 s and a top track speed of 188 mph. A 7-speed manual was also available, making the HDE one of the few wide-body, retro-flavored modern 911s you could row yourself.
- Driveline & chassis: standard AWD (PTM), PASM dampers, rear-axle steering and PDCC available, and the Targa’s signature powered roof system paired to the classic stainless-look Targa bar. (Porsche’s Targa 4/4S release for the 992 established the baseline performance envelope on which the HDE builds.)
Although the Heritage Design work is largely aesthetic, Sport Chrono is standard and the calibration/performance are pure Targa 4S—meaning it’s a genuinely rapid open-roof 911 that’s easy to live with daily.
Performance & The Way It Drives
Numbers are one thing; experience is another. The Targa format trades a few tenths for drama and style: the powered roof ballet, the bar’s silhouette in your side mirror, the cabin’s unique light when the top is stowed. But with 443 hp and AWD traction, the HDE is decisively fast when you want it to be. Contemporary instrumented tests of 992 Targa 4S models routinely confirmed very low-4s to high-3s 0–60s with PDK, reinforcing Porsche’s own claims.
Reviewers widely praised the ride/handling balance of the 992 Targa 4S and noted that, while the Targa is the most “lifestyle” of 911 body styles, it still drives like a serious 911. Even in critiques that called it the “least dynamic” 911 relative to Coupé or Cabriolet, the verdict remained that it’s still a “beltingly good sports car,” just optimized for a different type of enjoyment.
Model-Year Coverage & Production
- Model year: 2021 (992.1).
- Production: Limited to 992 units worldwide—a number chosen to echo the model series code. Deliveries in the U.S. began late 2020 as 2021 cars.
- Mechanical updates: None beyond the base Targa 4S mechanical spec; this was a single-year, single-spec run by design.
- MSRP (U.S.): $180,600 + destination at launch.
Because it’s a one-year limited edition, the HDE doesn’t have the usual rolling changes—what matters is spec authenticity and condition.
Options & Packages That Matter
- Transmission: PDK came standard and unlocks the headline 0–60 claim; the 7-speed manual was optional and is likely to be the rarer/most coveted drivetrain by collectors long-term.
- Graphics & numbers: Many cars wear spear graphics and roundel numbers; some buyers deleted the livery for a cleaner look. Factory execution (painted vs. film) and condition matter for value.
- Wheels & brakes: Carrera Exclusive Design wheels are standard, with black calipers for the classic look. PCCB was available in the 4S universe; confirm what’s fitted and check rotor condition (ceramics are pricey to replace).
- Interior scheme: The corduroy and two-tone leather combos are the heart of the HDE interior—verify originality and wear carefully; replacement trim is specialized.
- Chronograph: The Porsche Design HDE watch (limited to 992 and VIN-matched in spirit) follows the car; having the watch, booklet, and box with the car is a meaningful provenance boost.
Reception & Reviews
- Car and Driver (launch coverage) praised the depth of the heritage study and how carefully the colors, materials, and graphics were curated—less gimmick, more scholarship-meets-craft.
- Top Gear (Targa 4S) acknowledged that among 911 body styles, the Targa is the most lifestyle-leaning and carries a small dynamic compromise—yet still called it a “beltingly good sports car.” That framing applies directly to the HDE since it shares the Targa 4S base.
- Auto Express & others on the 992 Targa line noted the beauty, speed, and grand-touring bandwidth, while questioning whether the Targa’s roof refinement tops the Cabriolet’s—practical feedback if you do lots of top-down miles at highway speed.
The enthusiast consensus: if the Targa look speaks to you, the HDE is the most charismatic version you can buy—and one of the most distinctive modern 911s full stop.
Buying Guide (Used)
What to check
- Authenticity & build sheet. Pull the Porsche build to confirm it’s a genuine “Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition” and note transmission, livery, interior scheme, and option codes. (The edition plaque on the dashboard carries the unique number.)
- Roof system & seals. The Targa mechanism is complex and generally robust; check for smooth operation, wind noise, and seal condition.
- Wheels/brakes/tires. Inspect the Exclusive Design wheels for curb rash (finish is specific) and check pad/rotor life. If PCCB is fitted, look closely for chips.
- Interior materials. The corduroy and OLEA club leather are durable but special—verify originality, sun wear, dye transfer, and that any replacements are OEM-correct.
- Chronograph & collateral. If the matching HDE chronograph accompanies the car (and paperwork), it strengthens the overall package.
- Paint & graphics. Examine spear graphics/roundels for aging or lift at edges; verify whether they’re factory-applied and whether any repaints were done to manage stone rash on the Targa hips.
Who should buy one?
Collectors who appreciate factory-authentic heritage details, or owners who want a daily-usable, open-roof 911 with a strong narrative and likely long-term desirability. If you’re track-focused, a Coupé (or GT car) is better. If you want the most roof-down refinement, a Cabriolet may be quieter with the top stowed. If you crave style, craft, and story, this is the one.
Ownership & Verdict
You’re maintaining a 992 Targa 4S with added trim delicacy, not an exotic prototype. Routine service is standard 992 fare; consumables are 911-typical (tires/brakes at performance-car prices). The unique interior and external graphics require extra care—avoid harsh cleaners on corduroy or OLEA leathers and consider PPF on leading edges/humps if you’ll do serious mileage. Insurance tends to recognize the edition’s MSRP and rarity.
Because production is finite (992) and the car is both visually distinctive and usable, the HDE already enjoys healthy demand. As always, transmission choice (manual rarity), condition, originality, and completeness (watch, books, window sticker) will steer values over time. Among 992 special runs, the HDE feels like a safe harbor: not the absolute fastest 911, but arguably one of the era’s most characterful.
The 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition is a brilliant meeting of memory and modernity. It’s quick, refined, and daily-friendly like any 992 Targa 4S, but every interaction—climbing past the Targa bar, seeing the green instruments, feeling the corduroy and OLEA leather, catching the gold script in the sun—reminds you this one is special. If your ideal 911 is as much about craft and culture as it is about numbers, the HDE delivers exactly that, in a package Porsche built to be rare, coherent, and complete.
What We Said At Launch
The Porsche 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition showcases what is possible with Porsche’s Exclusive Manufaktur program and what to expect from Porsche’s Heritage Design Strategy. Inspired by the 356 and previous generations of the 911, Porsche’s Heritage Design Strategy is bringing period-correct design cues from the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s into the current 992 generation 911. Cherry Metallic is a color exclusive to the Heritage Design Edition, and contrasts well with the white decals and ‘PORSCHE’ script recalling race liveries of the past.
The 2021 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition was the first of four special Heritage Design models. Historical exterior and interior design elements have been reinterpreted and combined with the latest technology in an exclusive special edition model from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. The edition is limited to 992 models worldwide, matching the internal model series number of this, the eighth generation 911.
“We are evoking memories of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 1980s in customers and fans with the Heritage Design models. No brand can translate these elements into the modern day as well as Porsche, and, along the way, we’re fulfilling the wishes of our customers. With the exclusive special editions, we are also establishing a new product line which represents the ‘lifestyle’ dimension in our product strategy,” says Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG.
Exclusive paintwork in Cherry Metallic and four other available exterior colors along with gold logos create an authentic 1950s-style look. The exterior of the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition features high-quality white livery with a historical design. The spear-shaped graphic elements on the front fenders are particularly striking and area throwback to the early days of Porsche motorsports.
We are evoking memories of the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 1980s in customers and fans with the Heritage Design models – Oliver Blume
A further highlight is the Porsche Heritage badge on the rear decklid grille, which is reminiscent of the one that was awarded back in the day when a Porsche 356 reached the 100,000 kilometer mark. This quality seal from the past – with a modern twist – will grace the rear of all four Porsche Heritage Design models. A further connection between past and present is provided by the historical Porsche Crest of 1963 found on the front luggage compartment lid, steering wheel, wheel hub covers, vehicle keys, and embossed on the head restraints and key pouch. The vehicle comes with 20/21-inch Carrera Exclusive Design wheels and the classic-look brake calipers painted in black as standard.
The interior also pays tribute to the past: the exclusive two-tone leather interior combines Bordeaux Red leather with OLEA club leather in Atacama Beige or Black leather with OLEA club leather in Atacama Beige. The use of corduroy on seats and door trims signals the return of a material previously used in the Porsche 356, reviving the zeitgeist and fashion of the 1950s. The tachometer and dash-mounted stopwatch of the standard Sport Chrono Package feature green illumination, underlining the emotive nature of the concept in the same way as the perforated roofliner in microfiber fabric and extensive Exclusive Manufaktur leather trim. A metal badge on the trim panel of the dashboard displays the individual limited edition number.
The first Heritage Design model is based on the new 2021 911 Targa 4S of the 992 generation which was just introduced, and is equipped with the latest technologies for chassis, assistance systems and infotainment. It is powered by a 443 hp twin-turbo boxer engine. Combined with the standard eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and Sport Chrono Package, the vehicle can reach a top track speed of 188 mph and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds. Alternatively, the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition can also be ordered with a seven-speed manual transmission.
Along with the introduction of the special edition, certain interior elements will be available as part of the Heritage Design package for all current 911 models. Porsche Design has created a high-quality chronograph, also a limited edition, which will be offered for sale exclusively to customers purchasing the special model.
The Official Video
The Reviews & Videos
Pictures
Press Release
02/06/2020
Paying tribute to tradition: the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition
Porsche presents the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition, a state-of-the-art 911 with design elements from the 1950s and early 60s and the first of four collector’s pieces of the Heritage Design strategy.
Historical exterior and interior design elements have been reinterpreted and combined with the latest technology in a special limited edition from Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur. The new model is available to order now and will be in dealerships from autumn 2020. Only 992 examples will be built, matching the internal model series code. Along with the introduction of the special edition, selected interior elements will be available as part of the Heritage Design package for all current 911 models. Porsche Design has also created a high-quality chronograph, to be built in restricted numbers as well, exclusively available to purchasers of the new limited edition model.
911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition, 2020, Porsche AG
“With the Heritage Design models, we are evoking memories of the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s in customers and fans alike. No brand can translate these elements into the modern day as well as Porsche and, in this way, we are fulfilling the wishes of our customers. We are also establishing a new product line that represents the lifestyle dimension in our product strategy with these exclusive special editions,” says Oliver Blume, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG.
Exclusive paintwork in Cherry Metallic or the four other exterior colours that are available, combined with gold logos, creates an authentic look in true 50s style. The exterior of the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition features stylish livery in white, with a historical design. The spear-shaped graphic motorsports elements on the front wings are particularly striking, recalling the early days of Porsche competition history. A further highlight is the Porsche Heritage badge on the rear lid grille, which is reminiscent of the one that was awarded back in the day when a Porsche 356 reached the 100,000 kilometres mark. This seal of quality from the past – with a modern twist – will grace the rear of all four Porsche Heritage Design models. The connection between past and present is also emphasised by the 1963 Porsche Crest on the bonnet, steering wheel, wheel centres and vehicle key. The historical motif is also embossed on the head restraints and key pouch. Further emphasis is provided by the new model’s standard 20/21-inch Carrera Exclusive Design wheels and classic-look brake callipers finished in Black.
The interior also pays tribute to the past with the exclusive two-tone leather interior combining Bordeaux Red leather with OLEA club leather in Atacama Beige or Black leather with OLEA club leather in Atacama Beige. The use of corduroy on seats and door trims signals the return of a material used in the Porsche 356, reviving the zeitgeist and fashion of the 50s. The classic looks of the green-illuminated rev counter and stopwatch underline the emotive nature of the concept in the same way that the perforated roofliner in microfibre fabric and extensive Exclusive Manufaktur leather trim do. A metal badge on the trim panel of the dashboard records the individual limited edition number.
The first Heritage Design model is based on the new 992 generation 911 Targa introduced just days ago and has been equipped with the latest technology for chassis, assistance systems and infotainment. It is powered by a high-tech 331 kW (450 PS; 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition: Fuel consumption combined 10.3 – 9.9 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined 235 – 227 g/km) biturbo boxer engine which, in combination with the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, accelerates the 911 Targa (with Launch Control) from 0-100 km/h in less than 3.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 304 km/h.
Porsche Heritage Design strategy: re-interpreting classic design elements
The Heritage Design models emphasise the lifestyle dimension that represents particularly emotive concepts within the Porsche product strategy. In this case, the Style Porsche design department and Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur are reinterpreting iconic 911 models and interiors of the 50s through to the 80s, bringing period characteristics of those times back to life. The Heritage Design package for the 2019 911 Speedster provided an initial preview of this strategy and Porsche will, in time, produce a total of four special limited edition models.
911 Targa 4S Heritage Design edition chronograph: the watch to match the car
In the 911 Targa 4S Heritage Design Edition Chronograph, Porsche Design has created a high-quality timepiece exclusively for owners of the new car. This mechanical watch has an elegant and clean design and, just like the car, is limited to 992 units. Again just like the car, the designers have drawn their inspiration for many of its details from the legendary Porsche 356 and iconic Porsche 911 Targa. For example, the design of its watch face, with its white second hand and Phosphorus Green rings, is inspired by the cars’ speedometer and rev counter while the hours on the watch face are inscribed in a font that is deeply characteristic of Porsche. The new watch’s strap is made of genuine Porsche interior leather and the way that 911 is embossed in it is a further tribute to the iconic sports car.
