Mercedes-AMG GT vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Compare the Mercedes-AMG GT vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is £10,000 cheaper. The Mercedes-AMG GT is 0.2s quicker to 60mph. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is more fuel efficient. Full performance, cost & ownership breakdown.
The Mercedes-AMG GT is priced from £155,000, powered by a 4.0L Twin-Turbo V8, producing 577 hp, with 800 Nm of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.1s, a top speed of 197 mph, sent to the road via rear-wheel drive. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is priced from £145,000, powered by a 3.0L Twin-Turbo Flat-6, producing 473 hp, with 570 Nm of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.3s, a top speed of 193 mph, sent to the road via all-wheel drive.
The Mercedes-AMG GT offers a 350-litre boot, runs on petrol, returns around 22 mpg, is covered by a 3yr / unlimited mi warranty. The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS offers a 132-litre boot, a usable front boot, runs on petrol, returns around 26 mpg, is covered by a 4yr / 50k mi warranty.
On cost of ownership, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is £10,000 cheaper than its rival, the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS costs less in annual maintenance (£1,600 versus £1,500), the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is the more fuel-efficient choice, a full tank costs around £85 for the Mercedes-AMG GT and £85 for the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS.
Driving Character: Mercedes-AMG GT vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
The Mercedes-AMG GT demonstrates the prowess of a front-mid engine layout, prioritising balance and direct feedback for the enthusiast driver. With 577hp directed to the rear wheels via a mechanical limited-slip differential, the car offers a visceral, involving experience. Steering is sharp and communicative, allowing for precise placement in corner apexes, though the rear-wheel-drive platform demands respect in damp conditions. Acceleration is blistering, with a 3.1-second 0-60mph sprint. While less forgiving than its AWD competitors, the AMG GT rewards committed driving with a dynamic repertoire that remains a benchmark for pure driver engagement within the contemporary supercar class.
The Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is defined by the versatility of its twin-turbo 3.0L flat-six, which offers a broader, more tractable power delivery than the naturally aspirated engines in the GT stable. Its all-wheel-drive system provides immense confidence, keeping the car composed in challenging conditions. The chassis is well-balanced, though the Targa roof mechanism introduces a weight penalty that slightly softens its cornering agility compared to a coupe. Nevertheless, with PASM and the GTS-tuned sports suspension, it remains a highly capable machine that balances road-going comfort with the sharp dynamics expected of a Porsche sports car.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Mercedes-AMG GT takes our 0-100 driving character grading, 82 against 82. Characteristic of the Mercedes-AMG GT: Thunderous AMG V8 with a more usable, GT-focused character than before. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: The GTS sweet spot in an open-top Targa body with reassuring AWD grip. In outright terms it is 577 hp against 473 — a 104 hp gap — and the Mercedes-AMG GT reaches 60 mph 0.2s sooner.
Interior & Cabin: Mercedes-AMG GT vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Inside, the AMG GT presents a cockpit-like environment dominated by a high transmission tunnel and a wide, driver-centric dashboard. The interior materials are of a high standard, showcasing bespoke AMG instruments and Alcantara detailing. Space is deliberately intimate, reflecting the car’s focused nature rather than grand touring comfort. Visibility is somewhat compromised by the low-slung roofline and thick pillars, yet the driving position is perfectly aligned with the pedals and steering wheel. It is an environment designed to insulate the driver from distractions, keeping the focus squarely on the task of piloting a high-performance machine through demanding roads.
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 Mercedes-AMG GT takes our 0-100 interior & cabin grading, 84 against 84. Characteristic of the Mercedes-AMG GT: Genuinely usable 2+2 cabin with strong build quality. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: Comfortable, well-finished cabin with genuine everyday usability.
Daily Usability: Mercedes-AMG GT vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Usability in the AMG GT is naturally restricted by its performance-oriented design. The front trunk provides a 260-litre storage area, adequate for light travel but far from comprehensive for extended road trips. The suspension is remarkably firm even in Comfort mode, which can result in an unsettled ride on poor surfaces or urban speed bumps. Ingress and egress require a degree of physical dexterity, given the low ride height and sculpted seats. While the car can manage city errands, its primary habitat remains the open road where its performance credentials can be exercised without the constraints of suburban infrastructure.
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 Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS takes our 0-100 daily usability grading, 72 against 80. Characteristic of the Mercedes-AMG GT: More practical than the previous 2-seat GT thanks to rear seats. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: Genuinely usable daily 911 with the added versatility of an open roof. that means 350 litres of boot space against 132, plus a usable front boot in the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS, and everyday running costs that favour the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS at the pumps.
Ownership: Mercedes-AMG GT vs Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS
Owning an AMG GT is an investment in the traditional, high-performance V8 heritage of the brand. Residual values remain strong, bolstered by consistent demand from enthusiasts who prize the V8 character. Servicing is handled through the robust Mercedes dealer network, ensuring that specialists are always within reach, though owners must prepare for high costs associated with performance-grade brakes and tyres. Annual maintenance of £1,600 is standard for the class. Insurance costs reflect the car’s high performance and the complexity of its mechanical components, yet the model remains a prized inclusion in the garages of those who value pure engagement.
Ownership of the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS is bolstered by Porsche’s extensive and highly capable dealer network. Reliability is a strong point, with the well-proven twin-turbo engine and AWD system requiring standard, predictable maintenance. While the Targa roof mechanism adds a layer of technical complexity that could lead to higher long-term maintenance costs, the model's consistent popularity with enthusiasts ensures stable residual values. With a comprehensive four-year warranty, owners can enjoy the car with confidence, knowing they have a reliable, multi-talented vehicle that excels in almost every category of performance and daily usage.
Head-to-head, the division is clear: the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS takes our 0-100 ownership grading, 68 against 80. Characteristic of the Mercedes-AMG GT: Backed by Mercedes-AMG's established V8 reliability record. For the Porsche 911 Targa 4 GTS: Strong Porsche reliability reputation and broad dealer network. On the wallet the two diverge at £155,000 versus £145,000 — a £10,000 difference, with annual maintenance of £1,600 against £1,500, and warranty cover of 3yr / unlimited mi versus 4yr / 50k mi.