Porsche 911 Turbo (930)
The Porsche 930 Turbo is one of the most feared and revered sports cars of the 20th century. When it launched in 1975, it was the fastest production car available in Germany and one of the fastest in the world — a turbocharged, rear-engined weapon that demanded absolute respect.
The 930's character was defined by turbo lag. At low RPM, the KKK turbocharger contributed nothing, and the car felt like a normal 911. Then, around 3,500 RPM, the boost arrived — suddenly, violently, and without warning. The surge of power (300 hp in 3.3-liter form, from 1978) combined with the 911's inherent rear-weight bias created a handling characteristic that could catch inexperienced drivers off guard with terrifying snap oversteer. The 930 earned the nickname 'Widowmaker.'
Visually, the 930 was unmistakable. The massive whale-tail rear spoiler (designed to cool the intercooler on 3.3L models), dramatically flared rear fenders to accommodate wider wheels, and aggressive stance made it one of the most recognizable sports cars of the 1980s. It was the poster car for an entire generation — literally adorning millions of bedroom walls alongside the Lamborghini Countach.
Inside, the 930 was luxuriously appointed with full leather, electric windows, air conditioning, and a level of finish that justified its premium price (nearly double a standard 911). It was a genuine grand tourer that could cruise comfortably at autobahn speeds, then transform into a track weapon when the boost hit.
The 4-speed gearbox was a deliberate choice by Porsche — they believed the ratios were spaced correctly for the torque characteristics of the turbocharged engine. Later 5-speed conversions exist but the original 4-speed is considered correct by purists.
The 930 Turbo was not imported to the United States from 1980-85 due to emissions regulations, making US-spec 1976-79 and 1986-89 models particularly desirable. The 'Flachbau' (slantnose) option, which replaced the standard headlights with pop-up units faired into the fenders, is the rarest and most valuable variant.
The 930 is a mechanical car — no electronic nannies, no power steering assist (on most), no ABS. Drive it before buying to understand the turbo lag and handling. Check for rust at the usual 911 spots plus the wide fender areas where mud accumulates. The turbocharger should build boost smoothly — hesitation or smoke indicates rebuild territory ($5,000-$10,000). The wastegate, intercooler, and boost control system should be inspected. The 4-speed gearbox is strong but check for synchro wear on 2nd gear. Oil leaks are normal but excessive oil consumption indicates worn seals or guides. Flachbau cars command a 50-100% premium.
Total 930 production (1975-89): approximately 21,589 units. The 3.0L (260 hp) ran 1975-77. The 3.3L with intercooler (300 hp) ran 1978-89. US cars were sold 1976-79 and 1986-89 (gap due to emissions). The Flachbau (slantnose) was a special order option: approximately 948 factory slantnose cars. The Turbo S (1986) and Turbo SE (1986) are ultra-rare limited editions.