Not long before the term “Porsche Turbo” became an ingrained part of the world’s sports car lexicon, the German manufacturer was working feverishly to ready the potent new 911 derivative for retail customers, including in the United States, its most lucrative market. The 911 Turbo was introduced at the 1974 Paris Auto Show as a 1975 model, and it would be the homologated version of the new 934 race car. The new model was intended to be the fastest and quickest street-legal Porsche ever built. It certainly had great visual appeal, with its exaggerated “whale-tail” spoiler and widely flared front fenders and rear quarters.

In recent years, Porsche’s first-generation Type 930s (1975–1977) have become much sought-after by collectors. Much lighter and more visceral than their modern counterparts, the 911 Turbo was a genuinely exciting automobile. The Turbo’s performance matched its looks; the turbocharged 3.0-litre air-cooled engine delivered its power through a strengthened four-speed manual gearbox, and many were equipped with an optional limited-slip differential. These early 930s could accelerate to 60 mph in six seconds and top 155 mph. The 911 Turbo proved to be a huge success in both the European and North American markets. As a result, turbocharged variants have been a staple of Porsche models, particularly 911s, ever since.

This 1977 Turbo was acquired by the current owner 20 years ago, on 29 March 1996, with only 78,000 original kilometres. Finished in desirable Copper Brown Metallic over a tan leather interior, it was promptly sent to Porsche Zentrum Stuttgart for a comprehensive service in June 1996, for which the invoice is included on file.

An enthusiastic collector of modern Porsches, the consignor has driven the Turbo approximately 5,000 kilometres since acquisition, as it currently shows just 83,289 original kilometres. Routinely maintained by the previous owner as well, the service booklet notes regular maintenance from 1977 to July 2016. Along with the service booklet, the Turbo also includes its original owners’ and radio manual in the correct red vinyl pouch. Its original space-saver spare wheel and tyre is also found in the front boot compartment. This original Type 930 continues to present very nicely throughout, including a well-detailed interior with clean carpeting and leather that show only minor wear from regular use.

The original 911 Turbo is an icon of Porsche ingenuity and design, and it has truly stood the test of time, as it is considered by many to be one of the most important Porsche models ever produced. This all-original example would make a great addition to any Porsche collection, and its next owner will surely find great satisfaction behind the wheel, especially when the turbo spools up.