Photo Story

Photo: Revived 550-HP Porsche Targa Hybrid set to shine at Monterey

The bb-Auto Targa Hybrid, set to debut at Monterey Car Week, is a rare collectible blending Porsche heritage with modern innovations.

Published: Aug 16, 2024 11:11 AM EST

Sujita Sinha

12 days ago

Image of Porsche 911 Targa.

Porsche Santa Clarita

Monterey Car Week is known for showcasing some of the most iconic cars in the world, and this year is no exception. The event will once again be a playground for Porsche enthusiasts.

A variety of models, including rare survivors and stunning restomods, will be gracing the streets of Northern California. But among the array of 911s, one car is set to stand out. It is a meticulously restored 1986 Porsche 911 Targa that merges classic design with cutting-edge technology.

This particular Porsche 911 Targa is not just another modification. It is a product of bb-Auto, a renowned restoration firm that was recently revived by Galpin Motors in California.

The revival of bb-Auto has resurrected a legendary name in the custom Porsche world, and this Targa Hybrid stands as a testament to their exceptional craftsmanship.

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Power under the hood: A 550-horsepower beast
At the heart of this 911 Targa is a powerful 4.0-liter air-cooled flat-six engine from Ed Pink Racing, the same shop responsible for supplying engines for Singer's early reimagined 911s. This engine alone produces a remarkable 550 horsepower, making it a formidable force on the road. However, the team at bb-Auto didn’t stop there.
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Hybrid power boost: Adding a 110-kW electric motor
In a bold move that blends the old with the new, bb-Auto has integrated a 110-kilowatt electric motor from Vonnen, the company that pioneered the first 911 hybrid street car. This electric motor is strategically placed between the engine and the G50 five-speed manual gearbox, creating a seamless hybrid powertrain that delivers a total of 550 horsepower.
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Bespoke suspension and brakes: Handling the power
To handle the immense power, the 911 Targa has been outfitted with a bespoke suspension system that borrows elements from the 997 GT3. This includes coilovers, adjustable sway bars, and an Active Suspension Management system, all of which contribute to a refined and responsive driving experience. Additionally, custom Brembo six-piston brakes and two-piece Fuchs-style wheels, wrapped in Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires, provide the stopping power and grip needed to match the car’s performance.
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A nod to history: The funky rainbow design
The exterior of the Targa Hybrid is as eye-catching as its performance. The car features a bold rainbow design that is a homage to the original 1976 Turbo Targa created by bb-Auto in collaboration with Polaroid for the Photokina photography show. This vibrant design quickly became iconic, gracing the covers of magazines like Auto Motor und Sport and Road & Track. The resurrection of this design on the new Targa Hybrid is a fitting tribute to bb-Auto’s legacy.
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Modern interior with classic flair
Stepping inside the Targa Hybrid reveals an interior that is just as striking as the exterior. The cabin has been fully overhauled, featuring bespoke Recaro LX seats upholstered in a bright blue material that matches the dashboard and door cards. The floor carpets carry the rainbow theme, while a polished wooden shift knob adds a touch of classic elegance. The gauges have been customized, and the car now boasts an electric air conditioning system to keep occupants cool under the glass targa roof panel.
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Tech-infused cabin: Infotainment and audio upgrades
In addition to the classic elements, the Targa Hybrid’s interior is packed with modern technology. A 9.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, mounted on the passenger side, complements the Porsche Classic Communication system, offering a blend of modern convenience and retro style. To top it off, the car is equipped with a high-end 660-watt Focal audio system, ensuring that every drive is accompanied by premium sound quality.
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A labor of love: Honoring Porsche heritage
“This project is a true labor of love, blending classic Porsche heritage with our own Galpizined style,” said Galpin Motors CEO Beau Boeckmann in a statement. “Honoring the iconic bb-Auto company and continuing its legacy with our team was our mission.” The Targa Hybrid is not just a car; it’s a tribute to the craftsmanship and creativity that bb-Auto represents.
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Limited edition: A rare collectible
The bb-Auto Targa Hybrid is set to make its public debut at the Werks Reunion in Monterey on Friday, August 16. Galpin Motors has also announced plans to produce a limited run of 50th Anniversary bb Targa hybrids, each customized to the owner’s specifications. While pricing details have not been disclosed, it’s clear that this unique blend of classic Porsche design and modern performance will be a sought-after collectible among enthusiasts.