The Story

The Porsche 930 Turbo, affectionately dubbed the "Widowmaker," is a masterclass in the art of turbocharging. Introduced in 1975, it was a direct response to turbocharged dominance on the racetrack, particularly the 917/30 Can-Am car. This turbocharged beast was designed to put Porsche at the forefront of high-performance road cars and was the first production sports car to bear the Turbo badge. The 930 Turbo's introduction was a bold move by Porsche, as turbocharging was then seen as a novel and somewhat unpredictable technology for road cars.

With its iconic "whale tail" spoiler and flared arches, the 930 Turbo was as much about visual drama as it was about performance. Under the hood, it initially featured a 3.0-liter flat-six engine producing 260 hp, later upgraded to a 3.3-liter with 300 hp in 1978. This car was the poster child of the excesses and audacity of the late '70s and '80s, and it became an aspiration for many car enthusiasts. Its significance lies not only in its performance but in how it defined the brand's identity, setting the stage for future 911 Turbos.

The 930 Turbo's production spanned until 1989, with various refinements along the way, including an intercooler addition and wider wheels. Its reputation for ferocious acceleration and a challenging handling balance made it both revered and feared, earning its "Widowmaker" moniker. Today, the 930 Turbo commands admiration not just for its historical importance but also for its raw, unfiltered driving experience that remains unmatched in the digital age.

Variants & Desirability Ranking

| Rank | Variant | Why It's Valued | Approx. Premium | |------|---------|-----------------|-----------------| | 1 | 1989 930 Turbo 5-Speed | Final year, G50 gearbox | +20% | | 2 | 3.3-Liter (1978-1988) | More power, intercooler | +15% | | 3 | 3.0-Liter (1975-1977) | Original model, purity | +10% | | 4 | Slantnose (Flachbau) | Rare, limited production | +5% |

The most sought-after variant is the 1989 model, equipped with a five-speed G50 gearbox, which dramatically improved drivability over the previous four-speed unit. This final-year iteration is the pinnacle of the 930's evolution. The 3.3-liter models benefit from increased power and the addition of an intercooler, making them more desirable than the earlier 3.0-liter versions. The original 3.0-liter models hold a special place for their purity and being the genesis of the Turbo lineage. The Slantnose, or Flachbau, is a unique, limited-run version with pop-up headlights and distinctive styling, which adds a collector's premium, albeit not as high as the mechanically superior later models.

What to Look For

When inspecting a Porsche 930 Turbo, there are specific areas you should scrutinize:

  • Engine/Mechanical Issues: The turbocharger and its associated plumbing can be problematic if not maintained regularly. Look for evidence of oil leaks, smoke from the exhaust, or unusual turbo noises, which could indicate a need for costly turbo repairs.
  • Rust-Prone Areas: Despite galvanization, check the lower sills, front suspension mounts, and door bottoms. Rust can be a costly affair, especially since these cars are now decades old.
  • Electrical Gremlins: Electrical issues, particularly with the air conditioning system and various sensors, are not uncommon. Ensure all electrical components are functioning as they should.
  • Expensive Consumables: The brakes and suspension components can be costly to replace. Verify the condition of the rotors and bushings, as neglected items can lead to a hefty repair bill.
  • Signs of Crash Repair or Respray: Uneven panel gaps, mismatched paint, or overspray are indicators of a previous accident. Given the car's age and performance, many have seen track time or spirited driving, so thorough inspection is vital.
  • Modifications: Some period-correct mods, like period-correct wheels or exhaust systems, can add value, but non-original engine swaps or body modifications often diminish collector interest.

Known Issues

Common issues with the 930 Turbo include:

  • Turbo Lag and Boost Threshold: The early models are notorious for significant turbo lag, which can catch drivers off guard. Later models improved but still exhibit this characteristic.
  • Synchro Wear in Gearbox: Particularly in the earlier four-speed models, worn synchros are a known problem. Listen for grinding noises during gear changes.
  • Oil Leaks: Given the air-cooled nature of the engine, leaks are common around the oil cooler lines and valve covers.
  • Body Flex: With age, body flex can cause squeaks and rattles, particularly around the sunroof and windows.

When to Buy

The market for the Porsche 930 Turbo is currently cooling down, with a noted YoY change of -6.20%. The average price sits at EUR 105,800, with the median slightly lower at EUR 101,200. This cooling trend suggests a favorable buying opportunity, especially for those searching for a bargain. However, it's crucial to act judiciously as the market appears to be finding its equilibrium after years of rapid appreciation.

Given the recent sales data, prices can vary dramatically based on condition and provenance, with project cars as low as EUR 56,000 and concours examples fetching up to EUR 225,490. This variance underscores the importance of condition over mere acquisition.

Regional Price Comparison

The U.S. market shows a higher average price at EUR 137,888, which presents an interesting arbitrage opportunity for European buyers. Given the current Euro-USD exchange rates, importing a 930 Turbo from the U.S. could be financially advantageous, provided import duties and conversion costs are considered. Conversely, European sellers might find the U.S. market more lucrative if the currency dynamics and demand align favorably.