1979 Porsche 930 Turbo - Unrestored survivor, one of last 50 U.S. production

1979 Porsche 930 Additional Info:

This 1979 Porsche 930 Turbo represents an opportunity to acquire an exceptionally sound and very original example of an iconic automobile. Cars can be restored to a high standard but they’re only original once and this one is a true survivor having accumulated only 55,000 miles since new. Along the way, it has been well cared for as indicated by its excellent overall condition.

This 930 is also one of the last 50 U.S. market examples (10th from last) as indicated by its serial number and dash plaque. It includes a certificate attesting to that signed by Dr. F. Porsche. The car has been under the stewardship of its current owner since 2004 and includes detailed maintenance records and receipts dating back to 1991.

The current owner is a long time Porsche enthusiast and PCA driving instructor. During his tenure, he has made a few safety, reliability, and modest performance upgrades such as second front fender oil cooler. Also fitted were a new turbo charger and larger intercooler for reduced turbo lag. However, the boost limits were kept at factory specification so the engine was not subjected to any added stress. Because of its careful use and maintenance, the engine at 55k miles has never been apart and remains in excellent health. There is no smoke on startup and the oil pressure is well within factory specifications. While after setting for an extended period, a few drops of oil may be found underneath but the underside of the engine is quite dry relative to most air cooled Porsches.

Prospective purchasers should note that all original parts were retained when upgrades were made. The original turbo, intercooler, and even the original radio are in good condition and included with the car so it can easily be returned to original specification if one desires.

The body is straight without any rust and all the panel gaps are Porsche perfect. Both doors close with an easy click as they should. Overall, the paint is still very presentable but as one might expect for a nearly forty year old car with what we believe is mostly, if not all, original paint, there are some faults. On close inspection, very small chips are visible on the front bumper and front hood. There is also some “crazing” in the paint on the right rear fender and a slightly dull area on the right front fender. We know there have been no paint repairs going back to 1987 so it is not known if this issue was due to a repair prior to that or simply original paint that has not held up as well as the rest of the car. With its low mileage, this car is a great preservation class candidate, wearing its history in the form of the aforementioned blemishes while surviving in a state that still turns heads. Unrestored survivor cars are generally treasured in today’s market and this car clearly meets that standard.

The interior is very nice with near perfect seats, headliner, and carpets, again all original to the car. The dash is crack free as well. Suffice to say the interior is excellent overall, another indication of the care this car has enjoyed over the years.

Mechanically, it’s all good here too. The engine pulls strongly bringing a smile as the boost comes on about 3000 rpm. The four speed transmission was built to handle the power but had a reputation for synchronizers not lasting. The transmission here was rebuilt in 2012 and it shifts very well with great synchromesh and no play in the linkage. A new clutch was installed at the time of the transmission rebuild so the new owner will have a clutch with only a couple thousand miles on it.

The suspension, steering, and brakes have been well maintained. This car drives very well indeed with no excuses needed. You will not be disappointed. Transport costs are the purchaser’s responsibility but we can arrange shipping on your behalf. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions. Thanks for looking!

Listing update: An eBay member has advised us that later production 1979 930s were delivered with a federally mandated 85 mph speedometer. In many instances, buyers had these changed for the 150 mph units when the cars were quite new. We have ownership history to 1987 and that owner confirms the car had the 150 mph unit then. However, since the speedometer was changed at some point, we cannot say with certainty that the approximately 55,000 indicated miles is the actual mileage. Considering the original clutch was only replaced at about 52k miles at time of transmission overhaul and the otherwise very good overall condition of the car, we believe it likely the actual mileage must be very close to that indicated.