Porsche Soft-Window Targa Conversions: Complete Guide & Kit
Soft-Window Targa (SWT) models—sold only from 1967 – 1969—combine a stainless roll-bar with a zip-out vinyl rear window. Fewer than eight percent of early-era Targas left the factory in soft-window form, making them highly collectible. This guide covers the history, performance and value benefits, plus how Bexco’s all-inclusive kit lets you recreate SWT magic on any 1967-85 911 or 912.
The Soft-Window Story
Porsche created the Targa to satisfy looming U.S. safety regulations: a fixed roll-bar preserved structural integrity, while a removable roof panel and soft rear window delivered convertible freedom. By 1970, the rear window switched to fixed glass for production simplicity, so soft-windows lasted just three model years—one reason originals command auction premiums today.
Why Convert Your Glass-Window Targa?
- Scarcity & Value – SWT spec exists on roughly two percent of long-hood 911s; a correct conversion attracts enthusiast attention and higher resale.
- Ultimate Open-Air Feel – unzipping the rear window creates a near-cabriolet breeze unmatched by later glass Targas.
- Weight Savings – deleting curved glass removes about 20 lb from the car’s upper rear, subtly sharpening handling.
- Reversible – the original glass can be stored and re-installed without cutting or welding the body.
Bexco Soft-Window Targa Conversion Kit
The Soft-Window Targa Conversion Kit supplies every specialty component for 1967-85 911/912 Targas:
- Re-chromed locking handles & receivers
- Main Targa bow plus two rear half-bows
- Side spacers, three specialty rear screws & complete stainless hardware
- Weld-in mounting tabs & floating nuts for 1970-85 shells (later cars lack factory brackets)
- Step-by-step illustrated installation manual
Installation Overview
- Remove rear glass, seal and trim.
- Weld the supplied brackets into OEM positions on 1970-85 bodies (1967-69 cars reuse factory tabs).
- Bolt in the main bow using factory or welded tabs.
- Add half-bows & vinyl, tension fabric, secure Tenax snaps.
- Adjust receiver handles for an airtight, watertight fit and smooth zipper operation. DIY time: 4-6 h plus ~1 h welding on later cars.
Bexco vs. Other Kits
| Feature | Bexco | Competitor 1 | Competitor 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete hardware included | ✔ | ✖ | ✖ |
| Re-chromed handles & receivers | ✔ | ✖ | ✖ |
| 1967-69 bolt-on fit | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| 1970-85 fit (tabs + weld) | ✔ | ✖ | ✖ |
| U.S. inventory | ✔ | EU only | ✔ |
Soft-Window Targa FAQ
Will the kit fit my 1983 SC?
Yes—weld the included tabs and floating nuts, then follow the normal bolt-in procedure.
Is the vinyl window weatherproof?
Our marine-grade vinyl and updated seals meet or exceed factory standards for water and UV resistance.
Can I revert to glass later?
Absolutely. Keep your original glass and seal; the conversion is fully reversible.
Regular Glass-Window Targa vs. Soft-Window
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The later glass-window design simplified production and improved year-round weather sealing, but at the cost of the near-cabriolet feel SWT owners love. With Bexco’s kit, you can enjoy the best of both eras— keeping the classic Targa silhouette while reclaiming the unrivaled open-air vibe of the original soft-window cars.
Ready to Transform Your Targa?
➜ Buy the Soft-Window Targa Conversion Kit
Image Credits
- Soft-window image: Wikimedia Commons – Porsche 912 Targa.jpg (CC BY-SA 3.0)
- Regular Targa image: Wikimedia Commons – Porsche 911S 1970 2.2 Targa LFront PorscheM 9June2013.jpg (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Article content © 2025 Bexco Automotive.
