Targa conversion to Cabriolet

Can you give me information on converting a 1988 911 Targa to a Cabriolet? I want as close to an original conversion as possible and want to be able to still use the rear seats with the top down.I'm curious about it's practicality, basic instructions, parts sources, estimated costs, feasibility for the home mechanic, and body shops that have experience in this in California.

Sell the Targa and buy a Cab. Save yourself some time, money, and heartache.

Well I dont know too much about it but you can go to http://www.tweeks.com they sell the kit to do the conversion I think it sells for about $4000.00.

I have both targa and cab. You can't use the rear seats with the factory cab with the top down.

MRDI gives good advice. If you want a cab, just go buy one. Your going to spend a bunch of money on a conversion and it won't be worth the same as a real cab.

Chuck

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'86 Cab, '77 Targa, '85 toyota 4wd rain mobile

I have done a couple of these, OK for an older rough car or salvage title, but don't mess with a nice one, you'll lose in the long run.

find an original, good top if you're going to do it. those kit tops devalue the car. i've done several,with oem tops, and properly done they look factory. i don't feel there's a value loss, other than the cost to do it. they don't leak like targas either. rear seats aren't very useful w/top down. i made a carpeted package shelf for mine w/2 10" woofers facing the back of the front seats.

If the VIN isn't a cab vin, you'll lose if you sell, which you will.
Just like anything else...I say I'll put a 3.6 in my car, but when I gather 12k to do it, I'll wait to gather another 10k, sell my 3.2 and get a 993. The major upgrade route is something to be considered very carefully.

I also send caution in things like paint--unless it's just shot. There's something about a car that's as close to factory as possible, even with a few dings and slightly faded paint---anyone else with me on this?

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Kurt B
1984 911 Carrera Cabriolet

I'm with you all the way, Kurt. There was a time when it made sense to update a Targa to a newer cabriolet so one could "pose" as the owner of a newer car for a smaller cash outlay. Vehicles of this age are no longer good candidates even for posers. The "vintage" appeal of the Targa design may actually be a plus as the years go by. Good "honest" cars are always a plus.

Diverdan

I agree that the Targa, while not exactly an endangered species, has a history and look all its own and may be worth keeping as it. For example, I see a burgundy 912 Targa running down Dexter Avenue regularly here in Seattle that is a head-turner; I would LOVE an early Targa (doesn't Warren have one?). Allthesame, my '78 SC Targa gives me everything I need (for now...).

I just put the Targa top back on here in Seattle following many days of great weather. Thanks to the rebuild it is quiet and tight, but there is no question that the "broken-back" look between the rear 'glass and roll bar and top takes some getting used to. However, with the top off the Targa, the car is transformed visually. I would compare THAT look against ANY of the coupes and cabs.

A bit off topic there...

Interested with your post Kurt, as notice you have been following these turbo/supercharge/3.6 conversions as well.
The search for more power ultimately leads to a shortened engine life and/or reduced resale value!.
A better investment is to channel the money into what you really want!.
I fight that 'little devil' sitting on my shoulder on a daily basis!.
Which is why I SHOULD not buy a hot turbo and wait (like you) and buy the ultimate...
a 993
Base line.... 'enjoy the car as it was meant to be'

'Although Jack Olsen's beast is miiiighty tempting'.......... Shut up, do you hear me! Shut up!
Can you hear those voices?

i guess there will always be a gap between the "stock/purist" guys and the modifiers. if everyone left their cars stock, there wouldn't be any aftermarket. it's a car enthusiast's nature to personalize. it's not like we're chopping the top off a bugatti royale here. 20K buys you a mid 80's carrera, and tastefully modified, you may even improve it's value.

Unless you have a whole ton of money laying around as well as time and nothing else to do with it, I would listen to Mrdi.