some interesting rumors about the upcoming 991 Cab.
A recently discovered patent is suggesting the 2012 Porsche 911 Convertible could feature a new roof that is part hardtop and part softtop,
more:

http://www.germancarforum.com/content/90-new-porsche-911-convertible-use-metal-folding-roof-but-you-won-t-notice.html

 

Too bad Porsche can't figure out how to do a hardtop cab like Ferrari

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bDXz0huA1-Q

 

pretty cool

 

as u can see on the patent drawings, the new top is a pretty much a hardtop but it´s covered with canvas. it´s got the old school looks but the metal construction provides more safety. i like the 458 coupe better than the Spyder, there is something wrong with looks of the roof and i am not so sure if the 911 cab would look cool with a folding hardtop.

 

I read the description from the roof patent. It seems to mix hard plastic between layers of canvas. According to their description , trans-lucid material can be used, enabling sunroof panels (up to 3 perhaps) as optional. I guess weight management is key, with better vibration and noise results from the hard plastic. It seems to be promising.

 

Packaging is a lot easier on a 2 seater...

 

I am curious to see this. It sounds like it makes a lot of sense and will give the car a nice look and feel. Time will tell.

 

Canvas over plastic or metal is an improvement. Nonetheless, regardless of the extra weight, I would rather have a metal folding top. To me, the canvas roof looks increasingly dated, and the metal top offers superior protection from the elements, while looking so much better.

I understand Ferrari has stated they will only offer folding hardtops now. Of course, I won't be surprised if Ferrari takes a page out of the Porsche book and offers a more expensive light-weight 458 Spyder with a canvas top like the Boxster Spyder, for a substantial price premium.