Hard Top question - are the factory hard tops all the
 

same for 1997- 2004? I would think they are all the same but can someone please verify?

They are all NOT the same. The early year, I believe 1997 had "dog ears" on it that were utilized with the roof transport system. The rest of the years 986 I believe are the same. All the ones made for a 986 though will fit the 986, its just a matter of the ears. Take care,

Mike

I have a top from a 98 that has the "ears" so there were at least two model years in which the tops had ears..

I've seen posts that state tops from 97's were prone to rattles, but I have not verified this myself.

i have a factory 98 hardtop that came w the car when it was ordered, no dog ears.

http://i16.tinypic.com/4lglo9y.jpg

I have a January 1997 with the hardtop as a factory option and it has ears. I always thought 1997 was the only year for ears. If you look at a parts list the part number for a 1997 is different than the rest of the years.

Then 2 years ago I met a local January 1998 owner with the option and it had ears. He was the original owner and when I checked the option sticker the hardtop was listed.

I have '98 top with ears. The '97's and some '98 tops had ears , and the other years did not. There really is not a difference except in looks, but I think the ears do a add a little bit of wind noise but it is barely noticeable. I have not had any trouble with rattling. '97 - '04 tops fit the 986, '05+ tops fit the 987.
:D

sorry if it seems to hijack the thread but I am looking for a hardtop myself.

Does it affect performance or adds weight to the car? How much does it cost approx?

Thanks guys!

My car is 2004 986S

At high speed Porsche recommends having the soft top up, because it improves the aerodynamics of the car. So the hardtop makes the car more aerodynamic. They only weigh about 55-60lbs. so they don't add to much weight. They add no safety, and the prices range from $600 (if you are very lucky) to $2000 used, and $3000 new. I got mine for $900 and by freak chance in the same color, the average asking price is $2000 but most people pay $1500. :D

And I have one for sale for only $1000. No extra for the ears! :dance:

Funny that most Boxster racing classes require a hardtop so there must be some protection from flying debris. No rollover protection I would agree.

It's just to make sure you stay inside the cabin

Where is the best place to get a hardtop for a 2002?

Well, I have one in. Ery nice shape for $1000 and it is complete with hardware! A bit of a drive for you though!

What color is it?

Easy....
 

...Krylon!

:dance:

Any idea what shipping to San Jose CA would be, and yes what color please

Very good deal in bay area

https://sfbay.craigslist.org/eby/pts/d/1998-porsche-boxster-hard-top/6724491381.html

Tempting... right color too.