Here's What A 930 Porsche 911 Widowmaker Is Worth Today

Published By: NEWSROOM_REPOST

Born from a homologation requirement in 1975, the 930 Porsche 911 Turbo quickly became the most unruly but beloved Porsche 911 ever.

In the world of automotive icons, few vehicles carry the mystique and allure quite like the 930 Porsche 911 Turbo. Revered for its timeless design, exhilarating performance, and legendary status, this classic Porsche is known for its animalistic driving characteristics. As the automotive landscape evolves for these classic performance cars, the question arises: what is the value of owning a piece of motoring history like the 930 Porsche 911 Turbo in today's market? In this article, we delve into the intricacies of determining the worth of these legendary machines, exploring factors such as rarity, condition, and historical significance that contribute to their monetary value.

But why is the 930 Porsche 911 Turbo affectionately known as the Widowmaker? It is not because of a spider, it implies you are going to die driving it, a nod to its unruly but exhilarating power delivery. We will delve into its storied past and reveal a tale of adrenaline and danger, earning this model a reputation for challenging even the most skilled drivers. With its rear-engine layout and potent turbocharged engine, the Widowmaker possessed a propensity for catching its pilots off guard, earning its ominous nickname.

Yet, amidst the tales of white-knuckle drives and hair-raising moments lies a machine of unparalleled engineering brilliance, blending power and precision in a manner that continues to evoke awe and respect. In exploring the reasons behind its notorious name, we uncover the essence of what makes the 930 Porsche 911 Widowmaker a timeless icon in automotive history, and what makes it so expensive to purchase.

Here's How Much A 930 Porsche 911 Widowmaker Is Worth

Browsing for a 930 Porsche 911, there seems to be a common theme; $100,000 or more. On average, as shown by Classic.com, the 930 911 has a sale price of $134,408, making it one of the most expensive models of the classic 911. This hefty price tag reflects not just the car's intrinsic value, but also its historical significance and enduring appeal among enthusiasts and collectors alike.

With its combination of iconic design, exhilarating performance, and limited availability to only 400 units for the initial run, the 930 Porsche 911 commands a premium in today's market, solidifying its status as a coveted gem for those seeking to own a piece of automotive history.

930 Porsche 911 Market

The highest sale price for a 930 911 in the last five years was nearly half a million dollars. A showroom example, the 1978 Porsche 930 had 13,786 original miles and had been kept in immaculate condition, selling for $478,000 at Pebble Beach. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the lowest sale price in recent years is a 1979 model for $47,500.

The sale of this example was in 2019, before the boom in automotive prices, and you will now only find a chassis with no drivetrain for that sort of price. While there are swings in the market, many of the examples sold float between $100,000 and $250,000 with the higher end pricing being low mileage examples.

930 Porsche 911 Deals

Shopping around for a deal on a 930 Porsche 911? The best place to look are the handful of car auction sites. One of the best deals just last month was a 1984 930 with a slant nose conversion which sold for $76,000 on Bring-A-Trailer. A slant nose conversion models the car after the Porsche Kremer K3 race car, with many road car conversions done throughout time.

While it may be polarizing to some, the slant nose versions will usually go for a lower price. Towards the beginning of 2024, there have been a handful of regular 930 911's sold in the $80,000 price range. So, if you keep your eyes peeled, you can save roughly $50,000 over the average sale price.

Why Is The 930 Porsche 911 Turbo The Widowmaker?

The 930 Porsche 911 Turbo earned its ominous nickname due to a lethal combination of power, technology limitations, and unforgiving handling dynamics. In the 1970s, amidst the era of raw performance and minimal safety features, Porsche engineers birthed a beast that demanded respect from its drivers. With turbocharged technology inspired by the dominating Porsche 935 race cars, the 930 Turbo pushed the boundaries of what was possible on the road.

Packing a punch with its substantial horsepower output, the 930 Turbo boasted figures that eclipsed its Carrera counterparts, with the later 3.3-liter variant delivering 296 horsepower and 304 pound-feet of torque. However, this abundance of power was met with a chassis ill-equipped to handle its ferocity, resulting in a precarious balance between performance and control. In short, the back end was heavy, and the car was prone to oversteer.

930 Porsche 911 Turbo Engine Specs

The heart of the 930 Porsche 911 Turbo beats with a ferocity that belies its vintage origins. From its inception, the 930 Turbo boasted power figures that set it apart from its contemporaries, with the early 3.0-liter models churning out an impressive 250 horsepower. However, it was the later iterations, featuring a 3.3-liter engine, that truly defined the Widowmaker's reputation for blistering acceleration and heart-stopping turbo lag. Pushing your foot to the floor, you are met with a pause in acceleration until the turbo comes alive, breaking the rear wheels loose. If you aren't ready to catch it, it will not let you forget, and may push you into the nearest wall.

Despite its relatively modest displacement by modern standards, the 930 Turbo's power-to-weight ratio was nothing short of remarkable, offering drivers an exhilarating experience every time they pushed the throttle to the floor. Yet, beneath this raw power lurked a dark side, as the turbo lag and rear-weight bias of the 930 Turbo chassis created a recipe for disaster in the wrong hands. As drivers navigated the delicate dance between power and control, the Widowmaker's legendary status as a high-performance, high-risk machine became etched into automotive folklore.

930 Porsche 911 Turbo Interior

The interior of the 930 Porsche 911 Turbo exudes a blend of luxury and nostalgia, characteristic of the late 1970s era of automotive design. Buyers familiar with the plush leather interiors of the 911 Carrera were greeted with a similar level of refinement in the Turbo model, albeit with an added dose of adrenaline. As drivers settled into the cockpit, they were met with a sense of familiarity, surrounded by premium materials and ergonomic design elements that epitomized Porsche's commitment to craftsmanship.

However, it was the addition of a new gauge to the instrument cluster that truly set the Turbo apart. Positioned prominently alongside the familiar dials, the boost pressure gauge served as a constant reminder of the latent power waiting to be unleashed. As the throttle lazily climbed to 4,000 RPM, drivers watched intently as the boost pressure needle danced, signaling the impending surge of acceleration that awaited. With each spike in power output, the 930 Porsche 911 Turbo delivered a visceral experience that left no doubt about its performance pedigree, providing not only a thrilling ride but also a chiropractic neck adjustment courtesy of its explosive acceleration.

What To Look For When Buying A 930 Porsche 911 Turbo

When considering the purchase of a 930 Porsche 911 Turbo, several key factors should be carefully evaluated to ensure a satisfying ownership experience. Given the age and performance-oriented nature of these vehicles, attention to detail is paramount in assessing their condition and potential maintenance requirements. From structural integrity to mechanical reliability, prospective buyers should conduct a thorough inspection to identify any areas of concern before making a purchase.

The 930 911 is a part of the earlier year construction quality, meaning that they are prone to rust as well as immense amounts of oiling issues. Some will say that if the aircooled engine is leaking oil, it is working well, but when paying six-figures for a car it is hard to justify the puddles.

Rust And Oil Leaks

When considering the purchase of a 930 Porsche 911 Turbo, vigilance regarding rust and oil issues is paramount. The vehicle's age, coupled with its high-performance nature, renders it susceptible to corrosion and leaks that can compromise its structural integrity and mechanical reliability. Buyers should scrutinize the car's underbody thoroughly, using a blunt metal probe to detect any signs of corrosion hidden beneath a fresh-looking body sealer.

Additionally, attention should be paid to the condition of the fuel and brake lines, as aged components may be prone to splitting, posing potential safety hazards. Estimating the extent of bodyshell repairs can be challenging, but telltale signs of a cheap restoration, such as uneven panel gaps and overspray, should prompt further investigation to assess the true extent of any underlying issues.

Furthermore, potential buyers should pay close attention to the Turbo's engine and gearbox, as these components are critical to the vehicle's performance and drivability. Signs of smoking, uneven running, or difficult gear engagement may indicate underlying mechanical issues requiring significant investment in repairs or restoration. A thorough test drive is essential to assess the car's overall condition and performance.

We are looking for a hard hitting turbo as well as a smooth shifting transmission and hard hitting brakes. For those lacking the necessary expertise, enlisting the services of a pre-purchase inspection expert is highly recommended, as they can provide invaluable insights into the car's condition and advise on any immediate or short-term maintenance requirements, ensuring that buyers can make an informed decision regarding their purchase.

Turbo Model Specific Parts

The 930 Porsche 911 Turbo boasts a host of turbo-specific parts that contribute to its distinctive appearance and high-performance capabilities. From the iconic whale tail spoiler, separating it from the ducktail of the Carrera RS, to the wider fenders that accommodate its aggressive stance, every aspect of the Turbo model is designed to enhance both form and function. The Turbo model wheels not only add a touch of flair but also provide much needed grip and stability, essential for trying to harness the car's heavy hitting power.

Inside the cockpit, drivers are greeted by an interior boost gauge, allowing them to monitor turbo pressure and unleash the full potential of the turbocharged engine. On later year models, integrated rear fog and reverse lights further distinguish the Turbo model, combining safety and style in a seamless package. Additionally, the intricate network of charge piping ensures optimal airflow and turbocharger efficiency, delivering exhilarating acceleration and an unmatched driving experience. Together, these turbo-specific parts are necessary to upkeep the 930 Porsche 911 Turbo, ensuring you can drive and protect your investment.

The 930 Porsche 911 Widowmaker Is A Collectible

Starting development with turbo-based drivetrains in the 1960s for the Can-Am champion car, Porsche was steadfast in keeping the racing development going. Therefore, with the FIA homologation rule in 1974, the brand needed to produce a set number of road going versions of the turbocharged 911.

Starting with the 3.0-liter engine in the 1974 Carrera RS, Porsche then strapped a turbocharger to the engine, more than doubling its horsepower without any real supporting modifications. By the end of 1975, Porsche released 400 units of the 930 911, starting the craze and the story of the Widowmaker 911.

The real "Widowmaker" is the 1978 U.S. specification of the 930 911. Adding an air-to-air intercooler and bumping displacement to 3.3-liters, the 1978 model produced 300 horsepower and 304 pound-feet of torque. The reason it was deemed the Widowmaker is due to the immense number of crashes by unsuspecting drivers.

A large turbocharger to produce the power figures meant a large amount of turbo lag, hitting you in the face with a mountain of torque and horsepower at 4,000 RPM. This heavy hitting power is what draws people into the 930 and, as long as you are ready to handle the power, it makes for the most fun you can have with your pants on.

Should You Buy A 930 Porsche 911

A 930 Porsche 911 is undoubtedly an old vehicle. With any vintage car, there are going to be repairs, gripes, and headaches. However, if sitting in the driver's seat to smell the gas, hot oil from the air-cooled engine, and feel the unmistakable hit of 70s turbocharging technology is not your fancy, stick to your 2005 Toyota Corolla.

The 930 Porsche 911 is a dream vehicle for many, and with the six-figure price tag, it has quickly become unobtainable for most. If you are fortunate enough to pick one up, even if it is a labor of love, there is a large potential for return on investment. Not only monetarily, but in the driving experiences you will get from the legendary Widowmaker.