The 930 was produced between 1975 and 1989. It was Porsche’s flagship 911, and at the time of its introduction the fastest production car available in Germany.

The 930 proved very fast but also very demanding. The normally-aspirated 911 was already prone to oversteer because of its rear engine layout and short wheelbase. Adding the turbo engine – with it’s not insignificant turbo lag – meant driving the car required more skill to drive at the edge of its now higher level of performance. Despite the rear engine layouts’ advantage of providing superior traction, sudden bursts of power to the rear wheels in mid-corner could turn the car into an expensive weed wacker. This effect was amplified when an unexperienced driver instinctively lifts the throttle in reaction. The 930 needs to be kept at high revs during spirited driving to minimise the turbo lag. Skilled drivers quickly learn how to drive the 930 properly, and with that knowledge comes the ability to drive the car above and beyond the levels of most other sports cars.

If you’re looking for something a little more challenging than a “normal” 911, you owe it to yourself to consider a 930.  We’re pleased to present three outstanding examples of the later-production 930 from three very well-known Porsche dealers: AIC Auto of Pennsylvania, Autokennel of California, and Truspeed Motorcars of California.

From AIC Auto: A 1988 930 Turbo Cabriolet In Grand Prix White Over Beige Leather

From AIC Auto: The Sports Seats In The GP White 930 Turbo Cabriolet

Since 1978, John Witmer, has been selling new and pre-owned Porsches.  John founded AIC (Automotive Investment Counseling) in 1989 and continues to help his customers in the acquisition of their dream cars. Today, AIC Auto Sales Inc. operates in a hand-hewn log building nestled in the woods of Southern Lancaster County Pennsylvania, right next to his home, where all vehicles are stored indoors in a climate controlled garage. John presents this gorgeous 1988 Turbo Cabriolet (pictured above), with 48k Miles on it. John is asking $47,500 for this incredible car, fitted with the rare sports seats.

From Autokennel: A 1986 930 Coupe Finished In Guards' Red Over Black Leather

From Autokennel: The Black Leather Interior Of The '86 930 Turbo Coupe

Paul and Ed Kramer developed AutoKennel as a second home for cool cars of all kinds and for those who enjoy them. Autokennel is a friendly, clubhouse style environment in which to hang out and enjoy some nice cars and conversation with like-minded enthusiasts. Paul & Ed are licensed California automotive dealers providing competitive and affordable sales and brokerage/consignment services. The Kramers are very passionate (almost fanatical) enthusiasts who truly enjoy being around cars and people. Paul & Ed are proud to offer this pristine, two-owner 1986 930 Turbo Coupe (pictured above) finished in Guards’ Red over Black Leather. It has 53k miles on the odometer and is a well optioned car, ready for the 3rd owner.  The Kramers are asking $44,990 for this great example.

From Truspeed: A 1988 930 Turbo Cabriolet Finished In Guards' Red Over Black Leather

From Truspeed: The Black Leather Interior Of The '88 930 Turbo Cabriolet

Founded in January of 2001 by Rob Morgan, TruSpeed is best known for having a great inventory of air-cooled Porsches. TruSpeed has delivered cars to more than 4,000 customers worldwide. TruSpeed offers only the best pre-owned Porsches to customers who are passionate about what they own and what they drive. Their success is attributed to its’ highly knowledgeable, passionate team of Porsche enthusiasts. Today, Truspeed proudly offers this outstanding 1988 930 Turbo Cabriolet, (pictured above) finished in Guards’ Red over Black Leather, with only 37k miles on the odometer. It is very well optioned, along with a fresh new top. Truspeed is asking $49,900 for this fine example.

Does Form follow Function, or does Function follow Form? The chicken, or the egg – which is it?

“Form follows function” is a general principle associated mostly with modern architecture and industrial design. The principle being defined as the shape of a building or object should be primarily based upon its intended function or purpose.

In the context of design professions “form follows function” generally and intuitively seems to make perfect sense, but when given a chance to think about it, things get cloudy – real fast. The principle becomes problematic and open to very broad interpretation. Linking the relationship between the form of an object and its intended purpose is not always easy;  nor always by itself a complete design solution. Defining the precise meaning(s) of the phrase ‘form follows function’ opens a discussion of design integrity that remains an important, lively debate…such as this video below, courtesy of Porsche Design.

Enjoy.

Jeff Zwart – 2010 Pike’s Peak Class Champ, and Friend Of PML – hit the Porsche Museum during a recent trip to Germany.
For those unfamiliar with Jeff, he is a world-class visual artist. His speciality is both Photography and Cinematography. He has done many top notch commercials for Porsche and other clients. Jeff has also authored several fine books on Porsche. Amazon and David Bull Publishing both carry Zwart Titles.  Whatever the task at hand, Jeff does it all very well.  He is a legend at Pikes Peak (see this earlier PML post)

Below are some museum exhibit shots Jeff graciously shared with PML. Enjoy! (captions by the PML Staff)

Thank You, Jeff!

A "Zwart's Eye View" Of An Exhibit Area

917s...Titans At Rest - These Cars All Run And They Come Out On Occasion

Moby Dick Contemplates Taking The Stairs

The #21 917LH - As Raced By Elford And Larousse At LeMans In '71

"Bee Hives" On An Early 356

You Just Never Know What You'll find In A Parking Garage...

Stairs? No Problem - We'll Just Use This Porsche Diesel Tractor...

"Duck Tail Ala Porsche"...Served Over Fresh Greens

"A Night At The Museum..." Only The Night Guards Know For Sure

The Martini 936 Prototype, As Seen Through The Penske RS Spyder

The Famous "Baby Turbo". Hard To Believe This Car Only Has A 1.4ltr Engine In It - It Still Flew

Decision taken by the Porsche Supervisory Board

Green Light for Series Development of the 918 Spyder

Stuttgart. In its session today, the Supervisory Board of Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, gave the green light for series development of the Porsche 918 Spyder. Reflecting the overwhelming response from the public and customers to the Concept Study, the Supervisory Board gave Porsche’s Board of Management the mission to develop a production model based on the car already presented. This concept version of an ultra-high-performance mid-engined sports car with plug-in hybrid technology made its debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show and at Auto China in Bejing, hitting the headlines worldwide.

Michael Macht, President and Chairman of the Board of Management of Porsche AG: “Production of the 918 Spyder in a limited series proves that we are taking the right approach with Porsche Intelligent Performance featuring the combination of supreme performance and efficient drivetrain concepts. We will develop the 918 Spyder in Weissach and assemble it in Zuffenhausen. This is also a very important commitment to Germany as a manufacturing base.”

The Concept Study of the 918 Spyder allows CO2 emissions of just 70 g/km, corresponding to fuel consumption of 3.0 litre/100 km (94.1 mpg imp) in the NEDC, on the one hand, and the performance of a super-sports car, on the other. This extremely efficient drivetrain technology then forms a symbiosis in the 918 Spyder with truly outstanding design and high-tech motorsport achievements. Further product details of the 918 Spyder will be disclosed in the months to come.

“Be the 1st on your block…”

New Gran Turismo defies the difficult market environment

Editor’s note: the 1st, upper portion of this article addressing sales performance, is from April 2010. The remainder of the article is from mid June 2010. Here at PML we feel the Panamera platform will go a long ways to ensure Porsche’s survival as a Sports Car Company (or – put another way – as a Sports Car Division of VW…). Yes, the visual impact of this car is an “acquired taste” from some angles…However, we’ve driven several variants of the Panamera to date.  It’s everything Porsche says it is…truly an impressive car.

Stuttgart. In April the Panamera became Porsche’s best-selling model in the US for the first time. A record number of 678 customers chose the four-passenger Gran Turismo. The premium sports car manufacturer had to operate in a difficult overall market environment and sold 1,747 units from its current model lines to US customers. This is a fall of around six percent on the same month last year.

In addition to the Panamera, which has been available on the US market since October 2009, the Boxster and Cayman mid-engine models both had good news to report: 219 units of the Boxster were sold, a rise of around 28 percent compared to April 2009, and 135 units of the Cayman were sold, three percent up on last April. Deliveries of the 911 model fell 42 percent to 389 units compared to the same period last year. The Cayenne posted a life-cycle related decline of about 63 percent to 326 vehicles. The new generation of the sporty SUV will be launched on the US market starting in July 2010, and it will also be available for the first time as a technically demanding parallel full hybrid model. The Cayenne S Hybrid consumes only 8.2 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers in the New European Driving Cycle, which is the equivalent of 193 grams per kilometer in CO2 emissions.

Porsche Panamera Now Even More Efficient and With New Options

Stuttgart. The eight-cylinder Panamera models are entering the next model year as of August 2010 with an even higher standard of all-round efficiency and new options. Particularly the new brake energy recuperation system featured as standard, together with optional 19-inch all-season tyres offering reduced roll resistance, give the Panamera Turbo a further improvement of fuel consumption by 0.9 litres/100 km. As a result, the 500-horsepower top model now consumes just 11.3 litres instead of formerly 12.2 litres/100 km in the New European Driving Cycle, equal to 25.0 mpg imp (formerly 23.2 mpg imp) and a reduction of CO2 emissions by 21 grams per kilometre. The Panamera S and Panamera 4S now making do with just 10.3 ltr/100 km and, respectively, 10.6 ltr/100 km (equal to 27.4 and, respectively, 26.7 mpg imp in the NEDC), are likewise up to half a litre more efficient per 100 kilometres (equal to minus 11 grams CO2/km).

This increase in efficiency results primarily from brake energy recuperation, with the battery being charged primarily during application of the brakes and, respectively, in overrun. When accelerating, on the other hand, the field current in the alternator is reduced, minimising the load acting on the combustion engine since it is now required to deliver even less energy for charging the battery, instead making this energy available for even faster acceleration. In conjunction with further improvements, this battery charging strategy on the Panamera Turbo saves no less than 0.7 litres on 100 kilometres, while newly developed, optional all-season tyres measuring 19 inches in diameter likewise serve to reduce fuel consumption by another 0.2 ltr/100 km on each model in the Panamera range. Together with the enhanced tread of the tyres, a special rubber compound serves to reduce roll resistance while at the same time increasing the mileage covered by the tyres. The Auto Start Stop function has also been optimised, now allowing the driver to set off again even faster and more comfortably after coming to a halt.

Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) now available as an option together with Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) and a fully controlled rear axle differential lock enhances the driving qualities of the Panamera V8 models. PTV Plus optimises steering behaviour by intervening in the brakes on the inner rear wheel in a bend and generating an additional rotational force acting in the same direction as the steering wheel. The result is even more direct and dynamic steering when entering a bend – and at the same time PTV Plus, in conjunction with the rear axle differential, improves traction on the rear wheels when accelerating out of a bend on the road.

As a further highlight, Porsche is extending the range of paintwork colours, leather options and special equipment for the Panamera. As an example, the Gran Turismo is now also available with auxiliary heating and a three-spoke sports steering wheel with gearshift paddles on cars equipped with PDK Porsche-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe. Three-dimensional presentation of maps by the further improved, optional navigation system may now also be combined with a satellite image for even more realistic presentation and enhanced orientation. Even traffic lane information is provided in this way for complex road junctions in Europe and the USA. And last but not least, the speed limit indicator so far covering only the Autobahn, motorway and interstate now also comprises – depending on the database material – main roads and major routes leading out of town.

Nothing epitomizes the “Go Fast & Live Large” ’80s quite like a Porsche 930 Turbo Coupe fitted with the factory’s Slope Nose option. There were hundreds, if not thousands, of aftermarket Slope Nose “conversions” done to Turbo and non-Turbo 911s alike. The quality of these aftermarket conversions ranged from being almost indistinguishable from the real deal to simply horrendous hack jobs. Here at PML we’ve seen a lot of these so-called conversions fall in the latter category. That said, whenever a real one comes on the market it will get our attention – every time.

John Witmer of AIC Auto in Pennsylvania presents this outstanding ‘87 930 Turbo.  Finished in the classic Silver over Black leather combination, this example is well maintained and well preserved with only 44k miles on the odometer.  It is nicely equipped with full leather Sports Seats, the original Blaupunkt Reno radio, Rear wiper, Ltd slip, 16″ Fuchs Alloys, and a sunroof. A big plus are the sport seats; not all of the Slope Nose optioned Turbos were fitted with them. We think they are an essential element of the whole vintage 930 Turbo experience.

Asking $57,900 – SOLD!

For more information on this outstanding opportunity – or any of AIC’s inventory – please call John Witmer: 717.529.2025 or email him using this form

Richard Sloan collects all original, low-mileage Porsches and has done so since 1976. Today, Sloan Cars is recognized the world over by collectors and Porsche aficionados as one of the few resources for truly rare and hard to find Porsches. Maintaining one of the largest private Porsche collections in the world, Sloan Cars showcases an inventory of over 50 sport cars at all times. Richard’s vast knowledge of all Porsche models, garnered from a career spanning more than 30 years, is a unique resource for every Porsche enthusiast and Sloan Car customer. This is a place where passionate Porsche collectors visit, by private appointment only, to make their dreams a reality.

Sloan Cars presents this beautiful 2010 Cayenne GTS for your consideration. Finished in Crystal Silver over Havana leather, this example has covered only 5600 miles.  It is  in showroom condition.

• Crystal Silver Metallic
• Havanna Interior with Alcantara inserts
• 5,640 miles
• One Owner
• 4.8 Liter 405 HP
• Tiptronic S
• Bi Xenon Headlamps with washers
• PCM with Navigation
• Heated front and rear seats
• Light Comfort Package / Memory
• Voice control for PCM
• XM Satellite Radio
• Floor Mats
• Ski Bag
• Electric sliding moon roof
• Roll up shades on windows
• Rear Camera
• Park Assit
• Bose Surround Sound System
• Blue Tooth Phone Interface
• Enlarged rear spoiler
• 21 inch rims

MSRP: $91,825.00 Asking $77,900

The Porsche Cayenne has evolved into one of the most competent SUVs ever built. On the road or off, the Cayenne is a very pleasant driving experience.

For more information on this outstanding vehicle, please call Richard Sloan: 203.675.3235 or email: richardsloan@aol.com

The 964-based RS America is a true, “bare essentials” drivers’ car. They have a direct connection to the famous (and very expensive) ‘73 Carrera 2.7 RS series 911. The option sheet on the RS America was short and sweet: Ltd Slip, Radio, Air conditioning, and a Sunroof were the only additions one could obtain. The idea being – of course – to preserve the pure driving experience of a vintage 911.

Victorymotorcars of Houston presents this gorgeous ‘93 Silver over black RS America Coupe. This stunning example has all four options. “RSAs” are highly sought after and thus difficult to come by. This well maintained example has traveled only 37k miles, and looks great. Here’s an excellent opportunity to get into one of the best “pre watercooled” Porsches ever built.

For further information on this outstanding opportunity, please call Robert Neal: 713.783.6555, or 888.217.9424

or email Robert: victorymotorcars@yahoo.com

Our friends at Truspeed Motorcars of Costa Mesa recently acquired this stunning 1988 930 Turbo Coupe. 930 Turbos will always occupy a special place in our hearts here at PML. They are a truly unique driving experience different from  the normally aspirated 911 of similar vintage. One can drive it around town just like a “regular 911″…but once the tach hits that magic 4000rpm – 4500rpm mark is when the real fun begins. These cars are an absolute hoot when driven properly. 930s are idiosyncratic in their driving characteristics – so we’d have to mention the fact they really aren’t intended for casual drivers. This is a true high performance machine that warrants 100% attention from the driver. The reward being one of the most enjoyable vintage Porsche experiences to be had at this price point.

Sporting the classic color combo of Guard’s Red over Black leather, This car is equipped with the “right stuff”: 4 speed manual transmission, limited slip differential, power sport seats, raised steering hub, sunroof, rear wiper, the original Blaupunkt stereo, books and original window sticker, and – of course – the classic 16″ Fuchs Alloy wheels with black centers. This example has covered only 25,000 miles. Low mileage 930s are extremely hard to come by. If you are looking for a nice, well-maintained 930 Coupe to drive and enjoy, here’s a great candidate.

Asking $57,900

For further information on this beautiful 930, please call Dick Shear at 714.424.0251 or 800.498.1710 or email: dick@truspeedmotorcars.com

If you’re ever in the Costa Mesa area, be sure to stop by their impressive facility, located at 365 Clinton Street.

Here at PML we consider the 3.2 Carrera Series 911 one of the most bulletproof cars Porsche ever built. The 3.2 Carrera replaced the 911SC in ‘84, making this ‘85 an early example.  The 3.2 Carrera utilized the venerable 915 transmission through model year ‘86. 1987 was the 1st year of the G50 (950) transmission.  The car presented here is a very well maintained example of the breed. The owner is a very passionate individual who really hates having to sell, but would like to see it go to another enthusiast home. The car is located in Santa Fe, New Mexico.  As with any pre-owned Porsche purchase, a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI) is highly recommended.  It’s priced right and ready to go.  If you’re seriously hunting for one of these gems, they’re getting tougher and tougher to find in this condition at this price point.  It’s worth a closer look…

85 Porsche 911 – 3.2 Carrera

Guards Red/Black. 3.2. OEM leather Recaros, whale tail, A/C & 16“ chrome Fuchs, locking diff. 5 speed. Many more factory options. Car has always been excellent running, original & very reliable. High end upgrades include Momo steering wheel, Alpine stereo with matching amps & alarm. Rest of the car stock & original. 105 K miles. Receipts since 1996. Transmission, rear end & clutch rebuilt/replaced at 91k. Original paint excellent. No rust or accidents. Fair weather car always garaged/covered. Never abused. Extremely minor flaws. Excellent throughout.

$19,500. Negotiable for a quick sale; Please call for details.

For more information on this car, call the owner directly:

Jon Stewart 505-467-8285

or email: Carrera85@asuservices.com