The widespread fascination with the Porsche 911 Turbo commenced on the 13th of September in 1973, during the International Motor Show in Frankfurt. The striking silver 911 RSR Turbo concept, displayed atop a crimson platform, showcased distinct tartan-patterned seats, hinting at an upcoming model. Roughly a year later, Ferry Porsche presented his sister, Louise Piëch, with the first 911 Turbo on her 70th birthday. This exclusive model, bearing the ‘Carrera’ designation instead of ‘Turbo,’ featured a turbocharged 2.7-liter engine and a unique aesthetic.
On the 3rd of October 1974, Porsche officially introduced the production variant equipped with a 3.0-liter engine at the Paris Motor Show. Despite the prevailing oil crisis, the Turbo variant was released globally in 1975 and surpassed sales projections. Renowned as the “ultimate embodiment of a tested concept,” the Porsche 911 Turbo seamlessly blended unmatched performance with opulence and day-to-day usability. It stood as the pioneering series-production sports car with an exhaust-gas-regulated turbocharger, delivering 191 kW (260 PS) and establishing novel benchmarks in the automotive realm.
The 911 Turbo, known internally as 930, was originally intended for restricted production but swiftly evolved into a cornerstone of Porsche’s portfolio. Across five decades, eight iterations of the 911 Turbo have embodied the brand’s dedication to ongoing technological advancement. Since 1974, the name ‘Turbo’ has epitomized the zenith of Porsche’s model spectrum, synonymous with progress and power.
Navigating a classic like the 3.3-liter 930 Turbo through the roads of Goodwood is a blend of expectation and reality. Initially, the vehicle exudes manageability, featuring light handling and a smooth five-speed transmission. Yet, as the path ahead unfolds, the genuine nature of the Turbo comes to light. At 3,000 rpm, the turbocharger subtly stirs to life, and by 3,500 rpm, its vigorous induction thrusts the vehicle forward with a surge of energy, feeling unrestrained past 5,000 rpm. The legendary moniker of ‘Widowmaker’ is truly deserved, given the turbo’s abrupt power delivery and sheer potency demanding respect, particularly in unfavorable conditions.
