The Porsche 930 in Retrospect

The Porsche 930 (pronounced nine thirty) is an internal type number given to this particular 911 model car. In the same way you have the Porsche 964, 993, 996 and the 997, all these numbers are internal (factory) type number given different 911 models.

Porsche forever changed the game with introduction of the 930. It was the first 911 homologated for road to use a turbocharger, and was the top of the range model 911 for its entire production. It is also of interest to note that it was the fastest production vehicle in Germany at the time of its introduction in 1975.

The 930 Porsche also developed a reputation for fast acceleration, and difficult drag and handling, due mainly to its short wheel base and rear engine design. This combined with the power that comes with a turbocharged engine, meant significant turbo lag, thus requiring even more than the usual skills to drive the car at its full potential.

The Different Face Of The 930 Through The Years:

The introduction of the Porsche 930 Turbo Carrera in 1976 and 1977 saw Porsche pushing the envelope a little further. The car was dubbed the Turbo Carrera, it was turbo charged and had a 3.0 liter engine, it went from 0 to 60 in 6.7 seconds (very fast or its time) and cruised to 156 miles per hour.

The Porsche 930 Turbo Carrera came with modified suspension, fender flares, and the most distinguishable trademark, the whaletale. The car was in a class by itself.

But Porsche would out do itself as the Turbo Carrera was merely a precursor of something more powerful to come.

Within 2 years time, the “big kahuna” came on the scene in 1978. This model was developed into a 3.3 liter, turbocharged speed machine that went from 0 to 60 in 4.9 seconds and exceeded 165 mile per hour.

The distribution of 930 was eventually ceased in 1979 in the USA, mainly because of changing emission standards. That said you can still acquire one if you so desire, as there are many for sale all over the United States.

After a 7 year hiatus, the Porsche Turbo returned in year 1986. There were no major changes to this model, as it was virtually the same as the previous car. It had a 4 speed gearbox and a somewhat unstable rear end. There a few improvements in the 1989 models, which had a 5 speed gear box, 285 horsepower, and a better suspension system along with wider tires and a better braking system.

The 930 was finally discontinued in 1989 and was eventually replaced by the Porsche 964 Turbo. The 1989 models were the only models to feature a 5 speed transmission.