I am finally getting around to putting together the Porsche of my dreams! I had a 2.0 914 in college, but I really always wanted a 911 - couldn't afford it then, but I want to put something together that is still (somewhat) on a budget.

The dream back then was a cabriolet from the 80's, but the buy in on a '94 - '96 Carrera (avoiding the 3.0 '83 911SC)is still around $15K as a start (needing paint, interior, etc). I think I can build something for around $15 - $20 grand that would be very nice, but I want to start with something cheaper to start with, and maybe make it more "interesting"!

First question - if I start with a targa from around 1969 - 1976, what are the details behind converting this to a cabriolet? Are there "kits" for this, or what is the procedure for using the '83 and newer factory parts (top bows, boot, removing the targa bar,reinforcement, etc.) that would make this work? Are the bodies compatible (same width, etc), or is this a huge, even impossible endevor? It seems like it wouldn't be too bad a project, but if it costs me say $5K +to make the conversion, maybe it's not worth it.

Next question - the '74 - '76 911s seem really reasonably priced (in CA, I can avoid smog issues with a '76 or older model, but I really want the '69 - '73 look if I am going to go with an older car. This might sound crazy, but if I could find a super clean '74 - '76 model for really cheap, is it possible to convert it to the older bumpers and fenders? It sounds like the '69 and newer cars had the same wheelbase and overall body, but are the '74 and newer cars that much different that this would be impossible?

The goal? A 911 that looks like a factory 1969 Cabriolet. I would have black CA plates, it would be nicely lowered andit would have to have 15 x 7 "crows feet" American Racing 5 spoke wheels. I want to search for a '76 or older Targa to put this together for less that $20K (am I crazy?).

I would love any suggestions or advice on this project, let me know what you think!