Porsche began experimenting with turbochargers in the late 1960s. However, it was not until 1975 when a road-going model, the 911 Turbo, was introduced. Initially only available in Europe, it was so vastly different than the 911 from which it was derived that it received its own internal designation, the Type 930. The new car was federalized for the U.S. and debuted in 1976 as the Turbo Carrera. Claims as the fastest production car in America were quick to materialize as performance was truly impressive: 0–60 mph in 4.9 seconds, the quarter-mile in 13.5 seconds, and a top speed of 156 mph.

Power was initially supplied by a 3.0-liter flat six and mated to a wide-ratio four-speed manual transmission. Outside, the car was identified by a signature “whale-tail” spoiler and the massively flared wheel arches. A beefier chassis, Bilstein gas shocks, and an oil cooler were standard. Over the years, the car was refined, and horsepower (and price) increased steadily.

By 1986, the engine had been upsized to 3.3 liters, and Targa and Cabriolet versions became available for 1987. Beginning in October 1988, a five-speed manual transmission with hydraulic clutch was made standard. For the final year, the Turbo featured firmed-up suspension componentry to improve driving response. Rear-suspension torsion bars were increased in diameter, while front and rear anti-roll bars were increased in thickness, and damper settings were made firmer.

The car offered here is one of only 639 Turbo coupes imported to the United States of a total 1,496 produced for the final 1989 model year; it is a late-build car, in a year where production was shortened to just nine months. Amazingly, the Porsche has accrued just 1,161 miles from new. It is a remarkable time capsule of Porsche’s ultimate expression of performance. Painted in ever-appropriate Guards Red, accented by black Fuchs wheels, over a Cashmere Beige and Black partial leather interior, this is the quintessential color scheme revered by Porsche aficionados. Equipped with air conditioning and power windows, as well as the optional sunroof and Blaupunkt Reno AM/FM Stereo/Cassette with amplification, this Porsche is both stylish and fast…and comfortable. It comes complete with a clean CARFAX and a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity.

Ever since its introduction, the Porsche 911 Turbo has been the performance benchmark for the sports car industry. The 1989 models have always been highly sought after, as they are the final year of what many consider to be the finest generation of the Turbo.