The 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo remains the definitive poster car for an entire generation of European sports car enthusiasts. This specific rest-of-world example is finished in a rare paint-to-sample Sienna Metallic, a hue that perfectly captures the late-seventies aesthetic. Originally sold new in Germany, the car made its way to the United States in 1983 and has since resided in prominent collections. It represents a significant year in the model’s history, being the first to feature the larger and more powerful intercooled engine. This car is a true survivor of the era that put turbocharging on the map.
Distinctive Sienna Metallic Styling
Visual presence is a hallmark of this 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo, thanks to its specialized paint-to-sample exterior finish. The deep Sienna Metallic tone is complemented by the aggressive tea tray rear spoiler and signature rear fender stone guards. Period-correct 16-inch Fuchs alloy wheels are mounted with a staggered tire setup for a classic, planted stance on the road. Recent updates include replacement headlight washer jets and nozzles to ensure every detail remains functional and sharp. Black fender guards and side mirrors provide a crisp contrast to the metallic earth tones of the bodywork.
Chassis and Handling Dynamics
The 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo is famous for its demanding yet rewarding handling characteristics that require a skilled driver. Power-assisted disc brakes with ventilated and cross-drilled rotors provide the necessary stopping force for high-speed grand touring. Black calipers sit behind the Fuchs wheels, maintaining the understated performance look synonymous with early turbocharged 911 models. Recent maintenance under current ownership includes new oil cooler lines to ensure the cooling system operates at peak efficiency. This chassis is designed to communicate every ripple in the pavement directly to the operator.
Refined Black Leather Interior
Inside the cabin, the 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo offers a focused and premium environment for spirited driving sessions. Front bucket seats are trimmed in black leather, matching the door panels and a color-coordinated dashboard for a uniform look. Modern comforts have not been ignored, as the air conditioning system was recently overhauled with a new compressor. A CD stereo and an aftermarket speaker system provide high-quality audio when the driver isn’t listening to the flat-six. Turbo-branded floor mats and power windows complete the interior appointments for a comfortable touring experience.
Operator Interface and Gauges
The driver of the 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo interacts with a traditional three-spoke steering wheel and a classic five-gauge cluster. A replacement 150-mph speedometer sits alongside a tachometer with a 6,700-rpm redline to monitor the engine’s vitals. New ignition and combination switches were installed in 2025 to maintain the tactile reliability of the cockpit controls. The dashboard also features an analog clock and critical gauges for oil pressure, temperature, and fuel levels. This instrumentation layout is iconic and remains highly functional for the driver today.
Flat-Six Power and Performance
The heart of the 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo is a turbocharged 3.3-liter flat-six engine factory rated at 300 horsepower. This engine and the four-speed manual transaxle were rebuilt in 1984, incorporating a revised camshaft and an adjustable wastegate. Recent mechanical work under current ownership includes rebuilding the warm-up regulator and replacing the boost pressure switch. An intercooler sits atop the engine, a key upgrade introduced in 1978 to improve air density and overall power delivery. This drivetrain offers the famous turbocharged kick that defined the 930’s legendary status.
Final Summary
The 1978 Porsche 930 Turbo is a remarkable machine that bridges the gap between raw race technology and luxury road manners. Its unique paint-to-sample Sienna Metallic finish makes it a standout choice for the collector seeking something beyond common factory colors. With extensive service history and recent mechanical refreshes, this Porsche is ready for its next long-distance journey. It remains a visceral reminder of why the Turbo badge carries so much weight in the automotive world. This 930 is an essential acquisition for any serious Porsche aficionado.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
