Introduced at Paris in 1974, Porsche’s 911-based 930 Turbo was the roadgoing expression of Porsche’s competition program of the early 1970s. Built primarily for compliance with FIA homologation requirements, the Turbo was the most expensive Porsche when new, carrying a premium of more than $10,500 over the 911 S Targa. While the 400 examples required for homologation exceeded Porsche’s most optimistic sales forecasts, more than 23,000 Turbos were built through 1989. The 930 also formed the basis for the 934 and all-conquering 935, which scored a succession of outright victories through 1984, including six wins at the 24 Hours of Daytona, six at the 12 Hours of Sebring, and the overall win at Le Mans in 1979.

Swiftly developed and continuously improved, the 930 received its first major upgrades for 1978, including the addition of an air-to-air intercooler. Other changes included an engine-displacement increase to 3.3 liters, and improved engine cooling. While European models now produced 300 bhp, air-quality-compliant US models still delivered 265 bhp. Larger race-bred brakes were derived from the lessons learned in the heat of competition from those of Porsche’s mighty 917/30 Can-Am car, including ventilated, cross-drilled rotors and four-piston calipers. Easily performing well beyond the limits of lesser cars, the Turbo demanded the very best of its drivers and carried more than enough substance to back up its formidable image.

Bearing serial number 9309800724 and accompanied by a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity and window sticker, this “M-Series, 49-state” 1979 Porsche 930 is one of only 1,200 examples produced. Finished in Silver Metallic over brilliant red leather upholstery, it was equipped with highly desirable factory options including an electric sunroof, heated mirror, and a limited-slip differential, plus accessories including an air pump and tire gauge, and plush floor mats. It was sold new via Neil Huffman Volkswagen Porsche/Audi of Louisville, Kentucky, to the original owner, who is understood to have retained the car into 2005. That year, it was acquired by a private collector from Chatham, New Jersey, who in turn sold the exceptionally clean, low-mileage Porsche 930 to Canepa Motorsports of Scotts Valley, California, in 2013.

While at Canepa’s facilities, the 930’s engine was re-sealed, and the paint was selectively restored at the front bumper, fascia, and hood, being left otherwise factory-stock. The 930 then passed from a Texas collector to the consignor. Mileage is consistently tracked and confirmed through the service records that accompany the 930. A document binder contains the original window sticker and bill of sale, and recent work is also documented. Offered complete with books and tools, this 1979 Porsche 930 is a virtually flawless, top-quality example.