Porsche 911

vs

Porsche 911 Carrera 4

Germany vs Germany — 1974 vs 1990

Porsche 911 (1974)
Porsche 911 Carrera 4 (1990)
Specifications
911 Turbo 3.0 (930)911 Carrera 4 964
Horsepower260 hp250 hp
Torque253 lb-ft228 lb-ft
Engine Size2,994 cc3,600 cc
0-60 mph5.2 sec5.5 sec
Top Speed155 mph162 mph
¼ Mile13.5 sec13.7 sec
Weight3,197 lbs
Wheelbase2,272 mm2,272 mm
Length4,291 mm4,250 mm
Units Produced2,87313,353
Original MSRP$69,500
Value (Excellent)$280,000$150,000
Collectibility5/107/10
Rarity7/105/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1974 Porsche 911 Turbo 3.0 (930) excels in quicker acceleration, greater rarity, while the 1990 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 964 stands out for higher top speed, stronger collectibility, better value. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

Tracing the evolution of the Porsche 911 from 1974 to 1990 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Porsche. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1974 Porsche 911 Turbo 3.0 (930) producing 260 hp and the 1990 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 964 delivering 250 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 uses a Flat-6 Air-Cooled Turbocharged displacing 2,994 cc, while the Porsche 911 Carrera 4 relies on a Flat-6 SOHC 12V with 3,600 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1974 Porsche 911 Turbo 3.0 (930) edges ahead at 5.2 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,873 units built, the 1974 Porsche 911 Turbo 3.0 (930) is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 911 Carrera 4's 13,353 examples. On the collector market, the 1974 Porsche 911 Turbo 3.0 (930) commands a significant premium over the 1990 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 964, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1990 Porsche 911 Carrera 4 964 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.