In November 1993, I entered a warehouse owned by Los Gatos Ferrari, where a 1977 burgundy 911 Turbo Carrera (930) immediately caught my eye. This car, featuring its Iconic “Whale Tale,” was the subject of posters in many a teenage boy’s’ room and struck me as the most beautiful modern automobile I had ever seen.

This was the “Top of the Line” for Porsche in 1977.  The well-padded sport seats offer comfort even after hundreds of miles of driving through the Santa Cruz Mountains, as I did early in my ownership The air conditioning provides relieve on warm days, and the electric heated outside mirrors add to the ease of driving. By the standards of the late 1970’s, this car epitomized luxury.

When Ferraris and Corvettes struggled to achieve 0-60 mph in less than 8.0 seconds, the 930 achieved 60 mph  in a stunning 5.0 seconds, elevating it to “Supercar” status.

The 3.0 liter, 239 hp/287 lb.-ft turbocharged engine accelerates the car rapidly until the turbocharger kicks in, and then you slingshot past 80 mph. I have taken it to 150 mph, and the only sensation is one of stability. It takes the line through turns in a comfortable, stable manner with no surprises, unless you engage the turbocharger too soon while navigating a corner. In these cases, the car was unforgiving earning the nickname, “The Widowmaker”.  

The car never fails to attract attention for its unique color, muscular flared fenders, and “Whale Tail.” All original, it has won many first-place awards in Preservation Class at car shows, including the PCA Zone 7 Concours series and the Porsche Club of America’s WERKS Reunion in Monterey (2017.)

Except for minor repairs, the leather interior is original. I was able to replace an aftermarket radio with the correct OEM radio sourced from a shop in England. The original tool kit, except for the tire compressor, was with the car when I purchased it, and I later acquired a period-correct OEM compressor on eBay. As with the stereo, a prior owner installed aftermarket wheels that I replaced with the correct OEM black and chrome Fuchs.

 

Owning the 1977 911 Porsche Turbo Carrera (930) has been an extraordinary journey, marrying luxury, performance, and timeless elegance.  This car is not just a mode of transportation; it’s a piece of automotive history, a showstopper, and a thrill to drive. Its impeccable design and engineering continue to capture the hearts and imaginations of car enthusiasts worldwide, and it remains a testament to Porsche legacy of excellence.