Original steel hardtop for the Porsche 911 3.0 SC

Finding an original steel hardtop for the Porsche 911 3.0 SC (1978–1983) is a bit of a “collector’s quest.” To clarify for your search: Porsche never produced a factory steel hardtop for the 911 Coupe (as the roof is part of the unibody), so this part almost exclusively refers to the Targa models.

While the SC came standard with a collapsible (folding) vinyl top, several third-party manufacturers and very limited special-order distributors provided rigid “Hardtops” during this era.

1. The Three Types of 911 SC “Hardtops”

If you are looking for a rigid top to replace your folding Targa roof, you will likely find these three variations in 2026:

• The “OE Style” Rigid Top: Some specialty companies produced tops using a steel or heavy-duty fiberglass frame covered in vinyl to mimic the factory look but without the folding mechanism.

• Saratoga Tops (Glass/Lexan): While not steel, these are the most famous “hard” tops of the SC era. They are transparent/tinted and highly sought after by collectors.

• Aftermarket Steel/Fiberglass Tops: Brands like Performance Products or Brey Krause occasionally offered rigid tops. Finding one made of actual steel is extremely rare; most “hard” tops were fiberglass or carbon fiber to keep the center of gravity low.

3. Why Seek a Hardtop?

Many 3.0 SC owners prefer a rigid top for:

• Wind Noise: Folding tops tend to “balloon” or whistle at speeds over 80 mph.

• Security: A rigid top cannot be cut with a knife.

• Longevity: Original folding frames often warp over 40 years, leading to leaks at the A-pillar.

4. Technical Compatibility & Fitment

The 911 SC uses the “Late Targa” latching system (introduced in 1974).

• The “Two-Pin” Design: Ensure the hardtop you find matches the two-pin receiving holes on your Targa bar.

• Seal Compression: A common mistake in 2026 is buying a used hardtop and expecting it to be watertight. You will almost certainly need to adjust the eccentric bolts on your Targa bar to pull the new top down tightly against the seals.

5. Where to Look in 2026

• Pelican Parts Forums: The “Parts Marketplace” is the primary hub for used Targa hardtops.

• Sutton & Bourne: Known for high-end Targa roof restorations and occasional rigid top sales.

• Porsche Swap Meets (Hershey/LA): Physical inspections are best for roofs to check for frame cracks.