The Porsche 911 Targa 4 (992) is the gentleman's sports car, blending iconic open-air style with all-weather capability. However, the complex Targa roof mechanism adds significant mass, pushing the curb weight to nearly 1,700 kg (≈ 3,747 lb). For owners seeking GT3-level stopping power, the factory iron brakes are the primary limitation.
The Struggle
While elegant, the Targa 4's standard braking system leaves performance on the table:
- Thermal Saturation: Spirited driving on mountain passes quickly exposes the heat capacity limits of standard iron rotors, leading to a softening pedal.
- Unsprung Mass: The added weight of the AWD system and Targa roof dulls the steering. Heavy iron rotors further compound this, reducing the front-end "bite" that defines the 911 experience.
- Visual Impact: Standard calipers often lack the visual drama required to fill the massive 20/21-inch staggered wheels.
Technical Specification
This "OEM+" build transforms the Targa 4 by retrofitting genuine 992 GT3 calipers front and rear, paired with a massive 410 mm (16.1 in) front and 390 mm (15.4 in) rear StopFlex Carbon-Ceramic (CCB) system.
| Vehicle | Porsche 911 Targa 4 (992) |
|---|---|
| Wheel Size | 20/21-inch Carrera Exclusive |
| Front Hardware | Genuine GT3 6-Piston + 410mm CCB |
| Rear Hardware | Genuine GT3 4-Piston + 390mm CCB |
| Weight Saving | ≈ 50% Reduction vs. Iron |
| Pad Material | CCB-Optimized Ceramic Compound |
Compatibility Redline
This is a Custom Big Brake Kit (BBK) application. It requires the installation of specific Porsche 992 GT3 calipers to accommodate the 410mm/390mm StopFlex rotors. This is also a direct replacement for the standard Carrera calipers.
Engineering & Surface Treatment
1. Proprietary Bright & Glossy Coating
Porsche's PCCB rotors are famous for their mirror-like finish. StopFlex matches this with a proprietary ceramic top coat that keeps the rotor surface bright and glossy. This treatment prevents oxidation and ensures the rotors remain rust-free, perfectly complementing the Targa's sophisticated aesthetic.
2. "GT3" Steering Feel
Shedding approximately 50% of the rotor weight significantly reduces unsprung mass. This is critical for an AWD 911. The lighter rotating assembly allows the front suspension to react faster, restoring the tactile steering feedback and turn-in precision that the heavier Targa model sometimes lacks.
3. Zero Dust, Minimal Maintenance
The combination of carbon-ceramic rotors and our specialized low-dust pads produces virtually zero corrosive dust. Your intricate 20/21-inch wheels will remain clean for weeks, and the rotors will never develop unsightly rust rings after a car wash.
4. Fade-Free Performance (**μ**)
StopFlex rotors maintain a stable 0.44–0.52 μ operating window. Even during aggressive canyon carving that would overheat standard brakes, the friction coefficient **μ** remains consistent, providing the confidence of a track car in a grand tourer package.
Installation Gallery
In-Depth 911 Targa FAQ
Q: Can the GT3 brake system really be installed on a standard 911 Targa 4?
Yes, this is a popular "OEM+" upgrade. Using genuine GT3 calipers combined with our engineered STOPFLEX rotor kit—which includes the correct rotor hats and mounting hardware—allows for a bolt-on conversion that integrates seamlessly with the 992 chassis.
Q: Is this upgrade overkill for a car like the Targa?
Not at all. While it provides track-level capability, the primary street benefits are massive: increased safety margin, improved steering feel from weight reduction, and virtually zero brake dust to keep the car looking pristine.
Q: Do these brakes squeal like factory PCCBs?
No. We have formulated our pads specifically for street and canyon use. With proper bedding, the system is engineered to be silent, eliminating the low-speed squeal often associated with track-focused factory pads.
Q: What is the maintenance benefit of this system?
Longevity. StopFlex C/SiC rotors are harder than iron and resist wear significantly better. For a street-driven 911, these rotors can last the lifetime of the vehicle (250,000+ km), making them a "buy once" investment.
Q: Does this affect the electronic parking brake?
No. The rear conversion retains full functionality of the electronic parking brake (EPB). The system is designed to work with the 992's factory electronics without triggering error codes.
