Top frame

[124spiderman]

Can anyone tell me if the later model (1980) convertible top frame mounts onto an earlier model (1973)?
If not what are the differences.
As far am I am aware, the softop is slightly different at the front.
Many thanks

[pope]

The front bow is different from early to late model, late models bow is more curved, early model is squared off at the edges.
the latchs are of a different length also.

[124spiderman]

Thanks.
But will the complete assembly mount onto the earlier type car

[mbouse]

the latches are in a different location from the bow to the windshield frame... you'd have to swap out window frames, or relocate the latch receiver

[124spiderman]

Does hat mean the windsreen frames are different also?

[racydave]

Yes, thats the difference. W/shield frame. header bow, and diff latch location. You can do it, but will probably incur problems. I know of one person with that set-up. He is a regular poster at http://www.mirafiori.com/

[mbouse]

i have a 1974 frame complete with window, free for pickup. well... bring me a beer.

[124spiderman]

I'd love to, but I'm half way 'round the other side of the world......!bummer!!
I'm only asking because I bought a damaged '80 injected spider for parts and was wondering what I can salvage and keep for the '73. Apart from trunklid, doors, dash and interior I was hoping that the top frame was also interchangable

[pope]

I would think that if you used the convertible top frame and windshield frame from the 80 together, it would work. I am assuming you want to put it on the on the 1973. Any reason you cant switch out the windshield frame also.