The Porsche 911 Targa holds a special place in automotive history as the most famous car to bear the Targa name. Porsche's ownership of the "Targa" trademark led to other manufacturers facing a challenge in referring to their removable roof designs. Each manufacturer took a different approach, from using "T-top" roofs to inventing new names. This article explores the diverse range of Targa-style roofs found in various cars across different eras and brands.

Uncover the Hidden Stories of Targa-Style Roofed Cars

Porsche 911 Targa - The Pioneer

Porsche's iconic 911 Targa wasn't the first to use a removable roof design, but it was the most notable. Its unique roof became synonymous with the Targa name. The 911 Targa's success set a benchmark for other manufacturers, inspiring them to find their own ways to refer to similar roof designs without infringing on Porsche's trademark.The 911 Targa's body reinforcements ensured precise handling and running stability. Its removable roof panels could be stored in the trunk, adding to the car's practicality. With a powerful engine and a sleek design, the 911 Targa became a symbol of Porsche's engineering excellence.

Toyota Sports 800 - The Japanese Pioneer

Several years before the 2000GT, the Toyota Sports 800 represented Toyota's first foray into automotive performance. Unveiled in 1962 and launched in production in 1965, the Sports 800 had a removable roof panel made of aluminum to keep the car's weight to a minimum. With only 45 horsepower from its engine, the Sports 800 was successful in Japan, with over 3,000 examples built. Despite its limited power, the Sports 800 paved the way for Toyota's future sports cars.

Bentley Continental SC - The Rare Beauty

The Bentley Continental SC is one of the rarest Bentleys of its era, with only 73 examples built between 1998 and 2000. Priced at over $360,000 each, it has retained its value over the decades. The Continental SC featured a unique Targa-style roof with removable glass panels that could be stored in the trunk. Its 6.75-liter V8 engine produced over 400 horsepower, making it a powerful and refined sports car. The interior was filled with fine leather and wood trim, exuding luxury.

Rover 200 Coupe - The British Icon

When the Rover 200 Coupe launched in 1992, it had its fans in the UK. It set speed records at Millbrook Proving Ground and featured a Targa-style roof with removable glass panels. However, its patchy build quality and rattling Targa roof were drawbacks. Despite these issues, the Rover 200 Coupe sold well and remains a beloved car in its home country.

Acura NSX-T - The Euro-Rival

The Acura NSX-T was unveiled in 1995 to reinforce the NSX's Euro-rivaling credentials. It had a Targa-topped variant with removable panels that was similar to a Porsche Targa. The NSX and NSX-T shared the same powertrain, a 3.0-liter V6 making 270 horsepower. Acura reinforced the chassis to compensate for the structural rigidity lost with the new roof, ensuring precise handling.

Suzuki Cappuccino - The Kei Sports Car

The Suzuki Cappuccino is one of the most famous kei sports cars, known for its tiny size and 660cc engine. Its unusual roof features three removable panels that can be stored in special bags. With only around 28,000 examples produced, the Cappuccino is a sought-after collector's item. Its unique looks and engine have made it a favorite among enthusiasts.

Toyota Supra Sport Roof - The Forgotten Gem

The A70 generation Supra's T-top variant was unveiled in 1986. It benefited from body reinforcements for precise handling and offered three engine options. The T-top panels could be stored in the trunk when not in use. Although the A70 Supra didn't achieve the same success as its successor, it remains an important part of Toyota's sports car history.

Vauxhall VX220/Opel Speedster - The Lotus-Inspired Sports Car

Based on the Lotus Elise, the Vauxhall VX220 (Opel Speedster in Europe) had a removable Targa-style roof. Despite its low-slung proportions and similar price to the Elise, it didn't sell well due to its Vauxhall badge, which was associated with economy cars. It remains a rarity today, even in its home country.

Ferrari 575M Superamerica - The Electronic Targa

The Ferrari 575M Superamerica's roof is similar to a Targa, with electrochromic glass that can be controlled electronically. When not needed, the roof panel can be stored behind the seats. A manual latch is required to keep the panel in place while driving. With only 559 examples built, the 575M Superamerica is a rare and expensive car.

Smart Roadster - The Unusual Sporty Car

The Smart Roadster took a unique approach with its Targa-style panels or soft-top. Despite having a 0.7-liter engine with around 80 horsepower, it was surprisingly zippy. However, it was prone to leaks, especially around the roof and other areas, causing damage to the electrical system. The Roadster's transmission was also a weak point, but it still carved out a niche following.

Maserati Khamsin - The Custom T-Top

A custom T-top was created from a Maserati Khamsin and sold at a Bonhams auction in 2015 for €195,500. The T-top was designed to take advantage of California's sunny climate with tinted glass panels. Although Maserati never officially made a T-top Khamsin, this one-off example participated in the brand's 90th-anniversary celebrations and was sold from an authorized dealer.