1976 Porsche 911 Turbo Carrera

By the early 1970s, the 911 had established itself as much more than just a performance or grand-touring car, it had solidified its reputation as a formidable competition car. Engineers consistently worked to further its capabilities, and it wasn’t long before they sought to employ turbocharging as an efficient solution to developing more horsepower and gain an edge in competition. FIA homologation regulations required that Porsche build street-legal versions of the cars that they intended to race, and in turn provided a direct link to their competition-winning technology and their production models. Turbocharging finally made its way into the production 911 in 1975 in the form of the 911 Turbo and as the Turbo Carrera in 1976 for North America. Automotive journalists at the time were stunned by its performance, exclaiming that it was “mania on wheels” in response to the sudden onset of power from the large KKK turbocharger and its inclination to oversteer.

The 930 Turbo Carrera models were instantly distinguishable from their other 911 counterparts with their more aggressive bodywork, featuring wide fender flares that made way for widened Fuchs alloy wheels, a distinctive rubber front spoiler, and the distinctive rear “whale tail” spoiler. The engine was based on the original Carrera RS engine, its displacement increased to three-liters before the addition of the large single turbocharger. The combination produced 245 horsepower and 253 foot-pounds of torque at 11.5 pounds of boost, even with the mandatory U.S. emissions equipment.

This late-1976 production Turbo Carrera is believed to be one of only three examples to be delivered in special-ordered Platinum Metallic/ W1 paintwork with black anodized window trim, and of those three examples, it is the only one that features a “match-to-sample” interior. Its first owner, Donald Best, specified a rich-medium brown leather interior with brown carpeting. In addition to the unique color scheme, it was ordered with an electric sunroof, electric windows, air-conditioning, tinted glass, Blaupunkt AM/FM/Cassette stereo, a rear wiper, headlamp washing system, fog lamps, and Pirelli tires. It was delivered to Ely-Porsche-Audi of Hayward, CA on July 14th, 1976, and was owned by Mr. Best until 1978. Its second owner, David Nervell, was an active member of the Porsche Club of America. He displayed the Turbo Carrera at the Zone 7 Concours hosted by PCA’s Monterey Bay Region at Carmel Valley Park, where it was awarded the win in its class with a near-perfect score of 248 out of 250 possible points. It remained in Mr. Nervell’s care and was meticulously maintained throughout his ownership until 2014.

This Turbo Carrera shows just 20,145 miles on the odometer and presents in exceptional condition both inside and out. Its interior is entirely original, and the special ordered leather throughout the interior is in impeccable condition with no signs of wear or discoloration. The Platinum metallic paintwork has been meticulously cared for, and its deep gloss is evidence of its owners’ care over the decades. The original factory-issued manuals and books were retained with the car, along with its tools roll, jack, air compressor, and collapsible spare tire. Maintenance invoices dating back to 1978 are included with the car, and most recently we performed a comprehensive engine-out service and thorough inspection.

From its release in 1975 the 911 Turbo has been regarded as an icon, and to this day still stand as one of the greatest sports cars of all time. The early Porsche Turbo Carrera offers a unique and exhilarating experience when behind the wheel, and this highly original example in a stunning color combination is certainly one of the best.