The Full Story

1979 Porsche 911 Turbo (930)

3.3L Intercooled Turbo Flat-6 · 253 hp · Lubeck Serial LG039

1979 Porsche 911 Turbo (930): the full story

Originally conceived to satisfy FIA Group 4 homologation requirements, which required 400 road cars to be built, this turbocharged Porsche 911 variant debuted at the 1974 Paris Motor Show and immediately captivated enthusiasts around the world. The 930 adapted turbocharging technology from the dominant 917/30 Can-Am race car to a 3.0-liter flat-six engine. Porsche Chairman Ernst Fuhrmann’s engineering background and experience with turbocharging laid the foundation for one of Porsche's most iconic road cars.

Introduced for the 1975 model year as Germany's fastest production car, the 930 is equally exhilarating as it is intimidating. What began as a racing necessity quickly evolved into Porsche's flagship performance car, with production surpassing 1,000 units within its first year. Built at Porsche's renowned Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen factory, it earned the nickname "Widowmaker" for its abrupt turbocharged power delivery, a legendary reputation that has only grown with time.

Distinguished by its flared rear fenders, wide body, and iconic "whale tail" rear spoiler, the 930 is one of Porsche’s most recognizable designs. Far more than a styling statement, the spoiler increases rear downforce while channeling additional cooling air to the turbocharged engine, while wider rear wheels and tires improve grip and high-speed stability. Every element serves a function, from improving stability at speed to accommodating the wider tires needed to harness its formidable performance. For 1978, Porsche enlarged the flat-six to 3.3 liters and added an air-to-air intercooler, increasing output to 300 horsepower while reshaping the rear spoiler into the larger "tea tray" design to accommodate the new cooling system.

Finished in black over tan, this 1979 model was ordered with the exceptionally rare and highly desirable Fuhrmann Seat Package, a dealer-requested option with no official option code that is considered one of the rarest ever fitted to a 930. Refreshed in 2018 with a comprehensive restoration that included a refinish in its original color, a new headliner, and reupholstered dashboard, it has been carefully preserved while maintaining the originality that discerning collectors value most.

Power comes from Porsche's air-cooled, turbocharged 3.3-liter SOHC flat-six engine equipped with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, delivering an impressive 265 horsepower. Paired with a four-speed manual transmission, this rear-wheel-drive coupe delivers thrilling acceleration, reaching 60 mph in approximately 5.3 seconds on its way to a top speed of 160 mph. With its razor-sharp handling, the 930 rewards skilled driving with breathtaking acceleration while showcasing Porsche's renowned engineering. Four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes provide exceptional balance and stopping power, making the Turbo as capable in the corners as it is on the straights. Inside, leather upholstery, air conditioning, and power windows make the 930 the most luxurious 911 of its time.

The 930 Turbo has become one of the most sought-after air-cooled Porsches in the collector market, with coveted models like this one appreciating well beyond their original value over the past four decades. One of just 2,052 cars produced for the 1979 model year and approximately

1,200 built for the U.S. market, this car also represents the final year the 930 Turbo was officially imported to the United States before emissions regulations forced its withdrawal until 1986. A combination of motorsport pedigree, timeless design, and uncompromising performance has secured its place among the most important sports cars ever built.