The Porsche 930 Turbo, often referred to as the 'Widowmaker', was a halo performance car of its era, targeting wealthy enthusiasts seeking extreme speed and a visceral driving experience. This manual is essential for preserving that legacy.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Ferrari 512 BB, Lamborghini Countach, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1 (later models).
Key Features
Manual Value:
Provides genuine factory procedures, saving owners significant costs associated with specialized Porsche mechanics and ensuring correct maintenance and repair.
Vehicle Significance:
The 930 Turbo was Porsche's first production turbocharged car, a legendary and highly sought-after classic that defined the supercar landscape of the late 1970s and 1980s.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Supported Model Years:
1975-1989
Engine Variants Covered:
3.0L F6 (M930/50, M930/52) and 3.3L F6 (M930/60, M930/66)
No standardized crash test ratings available for this era and vehicle type in the modern sense. Design focused on occupant protection within a robust chassis.
Active Features
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes, ventilated and cross-drilled (standard on turbo models).
Passive Features
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia reel seat belts.
Chassis Construction:
Reinforced unibody construction.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory installed radio/cassette players, often upgraded in later years. Limited in-car entertainment by modern standards.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
ABS was not standard on all models and became more common in later production years.
Connectivity
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards. Focus on mechanical and driver interaction.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for specific intervals for valve adjustments, ignition system checks, and turbocharger inspection.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
High-quality synthetic or semi-synthetic oil meeting Porsche specifications (e.g., 20W-50, 15W-50 depending on climate and manual recommendation). Example: Mobil 1 15W-50 or specific Porsche A40 specification.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Type:
Gear oil specific to Porsche manual transmissions. Example: Porsche G50 transmission fluid or equivalent GL-4/GL-5 rated gear oil.
Coolant Type:
Porsche-approved coolant or a high-quality ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with corrosion inhibitors.
Known Issues
Common Failures:
Turbocharger seals, wastegate diaphragm, fuel system components (fuel accumulator, injectors), oil leaks due to aging seals and gaskets, premature wear of synchromesh rings in the transmission, heat exchanger leaks.
Maintenance Importance:
Due to the complex and highly tuned nature of the 930 Turbo, adherence to the service schedule and use of quality parts is crucial for longevity and performance.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Porsche Heritage:
Porsche has a long-standing reputation for engineering excellence, motorsport success, and high-performance sports cars. The 911 platform, on which the 930 is based, is iconic.
Model Evolution
930 Development:
The 930 Turbo was a homologation special to enable Porsche's participation in racing. It featured significant engineering advancements over the naturally aspirated 911.
Engine Updates:
Transition from 3.0L to 3.3L engine in 1978, incorporating an intercooler and increased displacement for more power and torque. Introduction of the G50 gearbox in later years.
Production
Production Years:
1975-1989
Manufacturing Location:
Zuffenhausen, Stuttgart, Germany
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Classic Car Status:
Consistently recognized as one of the most desirable and iconic Porsches ever produced, a celebrated classic car that frequently appears on 'best sports car' lists.
Collectible Value:
Highly collectible, with values appreciating significantly for well-maintained examples.