Should I go Targa or Cariolet?

[tuttobono]

I bought a 1978 911SC Targa in great shape.
The previous owner has removed the targa bar and back window in the hopes of converting to a Cabriolet.

I have all of the Targa pieces.
I don't have any of the Cabriolet pieces.

My question: would it be easier to revert back to the Targa set-up or move forward with the Cabriolet set-up?

I've reviewed the steps to convert to a cabriolet - I notice that the factory manual states "Because of technical problems conversions may only be made on Targa cars from 1981 models on." Why? Does this mean it is not possible with a 1978?

What else would I need other than the top and the appropriate brackets, etc (roll bar? extra body stiffening?)



Thanks!

[84_Carrera]

Structural integrity reasons. Older SC's, etc. have been converted before, but the general concensus is "bad idea".

I know this was discussed on Rennlist, I believe Pete Z chimed in on it over there... Pete?

[SC-targa]

I'm betting that there were no significant chassis changes between the pre 81 and post 81 chassis. There is no chassis reenforcement specified by Porsche in the targa to cab conversion manual.

I'm guessing that Porsche didn't want to have their dealers, and themselves, having to deal with "issues" that evolve in older cars.

Regards,

Jerry

[JeremyD]

http://www.rennlight.com/howto/cab/index.html

[450knotOffice]

I have a Cab and love it, BUT...if I were you...I'd put the Targa bar and window back in and leave it as it was built.

[robert walsh]

Not sure but it is plausable the structural integrity could play a part here, if you have everything to return it to a targa I think that would make the best sense, if not for any other reason than financial. A decent cab frame and top set up can be quite pricey. I've got an '83 cab and I can't see any real difference underneath from a '78 forward, but I am by no means an expert. Personally I prefer the cab over the targa.

[Cattler]

I recommend going back to the Targa configuration as well. I'm not an expert on the structural integrity issues, but can tell you that replacement parts for the convertible top frame are $$$. I know from experience that the main bow (a major component of the roof but not the whole setup by a long-shot) can run you anywhere from $1500 to $2000 for a used, reconditioned part.

[canamfan]

Ditto on "bad idea".1978 (however stiff the 911's torsional rigidity & integrity was/is) this is an older car & there are far more things the good engineers over @ Porsche have researched/developed/designed/tested/implemented (you get the idea) that most of us can't re-design any better on same without coming into more complications ie; the doors rubbing against door strikers & you can never seem to adjust accordingly without some more involving work. Go for the OE Targa, you mentioned this car is in great shape and you have parts to revert back, probably the most feasible thing to do IMHO. I'll help bring the Targa popularity back!!!! I think they look awesome, anyway aren't really good shape Targa's disappearing?

[tuttobono]

There is something about the Targa look that I've always liked!

[Laneco]

No way - go cabby!

We have a converted 80 cabriolet. When we re-did this car (it was rather run-down), Steve added some sheet metal reinforcement through the insides of the rocker panels. Nicely cut pieces that we purchased from a Pelican member. It really stiffened the chassis up nicely. I would consider it a "must do" on a conversion - it's absolutely worth the effort.

We liked the result so much that we intended to convert a targa that we had. Sold the targa instead (too many projects...).

Soooo... we have left over from that never-done project, a beautiful manual black cabriolet top, correct cabriolet rear motor mount, and another set of sheet metal reinforcement.

PM us if your are intererested in a package deal.

angela

[craigyirush]

Go Targa - all the fresh air you need, plus the safety of the Targa bar on the road (and if you want to do a track day).
Also, it's on balance better to keep things original.
And the top on the 80s cabs looks terrible when it's down - like someone stuffed a sleeping bag around the back seats.

[G50targa]

When I was looking for a 911, I was not sure whether I wanted a targa, coupe or a cab. I just happened to come across this one and looking back, I am glad I picked this car up. The Targa top is great.

[carrera turbo]

i see cab specific parts like motor mounts etc. do some research and then keep it a targa maybe this will help out

ed

[robert walsh]

Go for the cab, very euro and clean sumptious lines, the sleeping bag effect is a staple of the porsche cab's back to 50's! If they wanted to achieve a different look believe me they could have easily done it, like the 911, it's was just meant to be that way, for years and then decade after decade. Take Angela up on the offer.

[JeremyD]

I've had both - in a Targa you feel like you are still in a normal car - just an extra large sunroof. I for the life of me could not get my Targa to seal properly. No leaks - but anything over 50 miles an hour and it was loud! The targa top squeaked over bumps too - no matter what I did to it.

In the cabriolet - it's open - way open - exposed - you can hear the engine SO much better - you feel like a rock star. People look at you like a rock star. When the top is up - my car is quiet. I can talk on the cell phone to 90 mph - Looks are subjective - I like any 911.

[JeremyD]

Oh - and I'll add a picture just to try and even the responses:

[Winter]

I think you'll find the answer to your question not so much here on the forum but by looking at your bank account.

If time and money (most importantly the latter) are not an issue, then you can do whatever conversion you want.

However, if you would rather save money (or don't want to spend all of what you have), then the simple way to enjoy the car is to use the parts at hand and return the car to the original Targa configuration. It will be much faster and much, much cheaper.

The numbers won't lie.

FWIW, I have a '75 Targa that is a blast to drive with the top off. I've never driven a cabriolet, or a hardtop, but I'm guessing that each style has its benefits and all are probably equally good when it comes to red-lining the fun meter.

---
tom

[tuttobono]

G50Targa's picture is a beauty - but I agree with those of you on the Cab side too!
This is where I am - somewhere right in between a cab and a Targa.

I have to admit, I'm leaning to the targa side because I do have the parts and the cab parts are expensive. This all just means that there might be another 911 Cab in my future somewhere down the road!

[Laneco]

Cab!!! CAB CAB CAB CAB!!!! This is Steve's Cabby... Of course, that black targa above is real sweet....

But go cab - come over to the dark side. You know you want to!!!

angela

[Chris'85]

I seem to remember reading a thread somewhere about converting a hard window Targa into a soft window version. Now that would be cool.