I thought it would be fun to post some information on some of the cars that inspire and intrigue me. Today's guest, the Porsche 930, a long time favorite of mine, and a landmark model for Porsche. What makes the 930 so special, and why should you know what it is? A five letter word that is very dear to my heart provides the answer:
TURBO
Porsche began experimenting with turbocharging technology on their race cars during the late 1960s, and in 1972 began development on a turbocharged version of the 911. The turbocharging technology used in the 930 had originally been developed for Porsche's legendary race car, the Porsche 917. By combining the turbo technology from the 917 with the 3.0 litre flat-six engine from the Carrera RS 3.0, Porsche created the model that was internally dubbed the 930.
Total output from the engine was 260 hp, much more than the standard Carrera. In order to ensure that the platform could make the most of the higher power output, a revised suspension, larger brakes and stronger gearbox became part of the package, although some consumers were unhappy with Porsche's use of a 4-speed gearbox whilst a 5-speed was available in the "lesser" Carrera. A "Whale-Tail" rear spoiler was installed to help vent more air to the engine and help create more downforce at the rear of the vehicle, and wider rear wheels with upgraded tires combined with flared wheelarches were added to increase the 911's width and grip, making it more stable. Porsche badged the 930 as "Turbo" and put it on sale starting in 1975.
The 930 was very fast, but a demanding vehicle to drive. The 911 was prone to oversteer because of its rear engine layout and short wheelbase; combining those traits with the power of the turbocharged motor, which exhibited significant turbo-lag, made the problem more prevalent. Even though the rear engine layout provided superior traction, sudden bursts of power to the rear wheels in mid-corner could break the tires loose, causing the car to literally spin out of control. This effect was amplified if an unexperienced driver would instinctively lift the throttle in reaction. The vehicle needed to be kept at high revvs during spirited driving to minimise the turbo lag. Skilled drivers quickly learned how to drive the 930 properly, and with that knowledge came the ability to drive the car above and beyond the levels of most other sports cars.
Porsche made its first and most significant upgrades to the 930 for 1978, enlarging the engine to 3.3 liters and adding an air-to-air intercooler. By cooling the pressurized air charge, the intercooler helped increase power output to 300 hp; the rear 'whale tail' spoiler was re-profiled and raised slightly to make room for the intercooler. In 1983 a 330hp performance option became available on a custom-order basis from Porsche.
Porsche discontinued the 930 after model year 1989 as it was being replaced by the 964. '89 models were the first and only versions of the 930 to feature a 5-speed transmission. A turbo version of the 964 officially succeeded the 930 in 1991 with a modified version of the same 3.3 litre engine and a 5-speed transmission.
Source: Wikipedia
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