Ferrari 488 GTB vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Compare the Ferrari 488 GTB vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is £65,000 cheaper. The Ferrari 488 GTB is 0.1s quicker to 60mph. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is more fuel efficient. Full performance, cost & ownership breakdown.
The Ferrari 488 GTB is priced from £165,000, powered by a 3.9L Twin-Turbo V8, producing 661 hp, with 760 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 3 s, a top speed of 205 mph, sent to the road via rear-wheel drive. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is priced from £145,000, powered by a 3.6L e-turbo flat-six T-Hybrid, producing 534 hp, with 610 Nm of torque, reaching 0-62 mph in 3.1 s, a top speed of 194 mph, sent to the road via all-wheel drive.
The Ferrari 488 GTB offers a 230-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol, returns around 22 mpg, is covered by a 3yr / unlimited mi warranty. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS offers a 135-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol, returns around 26 mpg, is covered by a 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover) warranty.
On cost of ownership, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is £65,000 cheaper than its rival, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS costs less in annual maintenance (£3,000 versus £1,500), the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is the more fuel-efficient choice, the Ferrari 488 GTB has 78 L fuel tank, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS has 63 L fuel tank.
Driving Character: Ferrari 488 GTB vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
The Ferrari 488 GTB signals the move toward turbocharging, utilizing a 3.9L twin-turbo V8 to produce 661hp and a massive 760Nm of torque. The engine character is defined by its immense, flat torque curve, which makes it feel vastly more accessible and urgent in daily driving than its naturally aspirated predecessor. The side-slip control system is highly effective, enabling the driver to push the car into controlled oversteer with ease. While some enthusiasts lament the loss of the high-revving naturally aspirated top end, the gain in mid-range punch makes it a devastatingly fast grand tourer.
The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS uses a 3.6-litre flat-six with an electrically assisted exhaust turbocharger and an electric motor integrated into the eight-speed PDK. The combustion engine supplies 357 kW and 570 Nm; combined system output is 398 kW and 610 Nm. All-wheel drive, rear-axle steering and PASM form part of the published chassis specification.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 488 GTB — Twin-turbo V8 with flat torque curve; powerful and accessible at any speed; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS combines a 3.6-litre electrically turbocharged flat-six with T-Hybrid assistance and all-wheel drive.. Characteristic of the Ferrari 488 GTB: Side-slip control system enables controlled oversteer for experienced drivers. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: Targa roof mechanism; chassis rigidity remains high despite the open-top architectural change. In outright terms it is 661 hp against 534 — a 127 hp gap — and the Ferrari 488 GTB reaches 60 mph 0.1s sooner.
Interior & Cabin: Ferrari 488 GTB vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
The cabin of the 488 GTB offers a more refined, luxurious feel compared to the 458, featuring high-quality materials and improved build standards throughout. Ergonomics are excellent, with all primary controls within easy reach of the driver. Visibility remains a strong point for a mid-engine car, with clear front sightlines that make it feel smaller than it actually is. However, the infotainment system is noticeably dated compared to current models, lacking the seamless connectivity and high-resolution displays expected of modern luxury cars. It is a functional and comfortable space that balances performance and refinement well.
The cabin of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is dominated by the iconic Targa bar, which provides a unique open-air experience while maintaining structural integrity. The interior is finished to a high standard, with premium materials and the intuitive, driver-centric layout that characterises the 992 generation. While the Targa bar creates a stylish aesthetic, it does restrict rear visibility somewhat. The technology, including the standard Bose audio, is well-integrated and provides a modern feel. It is a sophisticated, high-quality environment that balances luxury with the functional needs of a performance-oriented driver.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 488 GTB — Refined cockpit with clear ergonomics and quality finish throughout; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — Luxury ergonomics; tech-focused cabin environment balances modern comfort with driver engagement features. Characteristic of the Ferrari 488 GTB: Good visibility for a mid-engine car; reasonable front sightlines. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: High-quality leather and trim; interior refinement provides a quiet environment when closed.
Daily Usability: Ferrari 488 GTB vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
For daily driving, the 488 GTB is remarkably civilised, particularly when the manettino is set to the softer settings. The steering is light and responsive, making city navigation straightforward, and the 230L boot provides decent storage for two. On poorer, uneven road surfaces, the suspension can feel rather firm, potentially causing fatigue over longer journeys in Sport mode. However, when treated as a grand tourer, it performs its duties admirably, managing the stresses of modern roads with a composure that makes it a highly usable mid-engine supercar for both errands and longer trips.
Practicality is a major strength of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS, as it offers the security of all-wheel drive and the joy of an open top. This combination makes it a genuinely usable car for all seasons, functioning perfectly as a daily driver. The rear seats offer occasional space for children or extra storage, and the front trunk is surprisingly capacious. While the roof mechanism does impact boot space when fully retracted, the overall design remains very user-friendly. It is a refined, comfortable cruiser that does not sacrifice its sporty character in the pursuit of daily usability.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 488 GTB — Manageable dimensions and lighter steering in Wet mode for urban use; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — The manufacturer technical sheet lists 135 litres of front luggage volume; rear stowage is a separate figure.. Characteristic of the Ferrari 488 GTB: 230L boot capacity functional for short trips. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: 110 mm clearance ensures daily usability; ride quality absorbs common road imperfections well. that means 230 litres of boot space against 135, and everyday running costs that favour the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS at the pumps.
Ownership: Ferrari 488 GTB vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
The 488 GTB represents a strong choice for those entering the world of modern Ferrari ownership. Used market values remain stable, reflecting the car’s excellent build quality and performance legacy. The Ferrari dealer network provides comprehensive support, though the added complexity of the twin-turbo system does mean that maintenance intervals and costs are higher compared to earlier naturally aspirated models. Insurance and running costs are in line with expectations for a mid-engine exotic, but the overall ownership experience is rewarding, bolstered by the brand’s enduring reputation and widespread specialist support in the market.
The 992.2 Targa 4 GTS combines the Targa roof system with the newer T-Hybrid powertrain. Service requirements must be checked against the exact model year and market. Its electric turbocharger and transmission-integrated motor distinguish its servicing needs from the earlier GTS. Warranty and repair costs depend on the applicable contract, vehicle history and market.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Ferrari 488 GTB — Strong used market values; 488 era widely regarded as excellent Ferrari; the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS — Reliable Porsche drivetrain; servicing is supported by a comprehensive dealer network infrastructure. Characteristic of the Ferrari 488 GTB: Ferrari servicing network covers all major markets. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: Strong resale market; combination of Targa style and GTS performance maintains desirability. On the wallet the two diverge at £165,000 versus £145,000 — a £20,000 difference, with annual maintenance of £3,000 against £1,500, and warranty cover of 3yr / unlimited mi versus 3 years / unlimited miles (original UK new-car cover).