1979 Porsche 930 Turbo Reaches $171K on Bring a Trailer

A 1979 Porsche 930 Turbo listed on Bring a Trailer has reached $171K. The U.S.-spec model features a 3.3L engine, rare Petrol Blue color, and recent updates.

A 1979 Porsche 930 Turbo has already reached a $171,000 bid on Bring a Trailer, highlighting continued demand for one of the most distinctive early turbocharged 911s.

The car, chassis 9309800714, belongs to the U.S.-specification 1979 model year—the last before the 930 temporarily disappeared from the American market. It is powered by a turbocharged 3.3-liter flat-six paired with a four-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. In factory form, the engine was rated at 261 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque.

The 3.3-liter version marked a key step in the 930’s development. Introduced in 1978, it brought a larger engine and an intercooler, improving performance over the earlier 3.0-liter cars. At the same time, it retained the raw driving character typical of the era, without electronic aids, which helped define the 930 as one of the most demanding and recognizable sports cars of its time.

This particular example stands out visually thanks to its Petrol Blue Metallic finish, a color offered by Porsche in the late 1970s and now considered relatively rare. Combined with the wide Turbo body and signature 16-inch Fuchs wheels, the color significantly enhances both presence and collectability.

Equipment includes a sunroof, rear spoiler, air conditioning, black leather sport seats, and a Porsche Classic Communication Management (PCCM) unit. The PCCM system is designed specifically for classic models, adding modern functionality such as navigation while maintaining a period-correct appearance.

Under current ownership, the car underwent partial disassembly and servicing. Work included a glass-out repaint, brake system updates, replacement of oil system components and vacuum lines, as well as installation of a Billy Boat exhaust system. These changes shift the car slightly away from strict factory originality, but position it as a well-prepared and usable classic while preserving its core specifications.

Market data shows that comparable 1979 Porsche 930 Turbos have recently achieved results exceeding $200,000 at auction. Against that backdrop, the current bid suggests strong interest, with potential for further movement as the auction progresses.

Altogether, this example combines key attributes that define an appealing early 930: a significant model year for the U.S. market, the upgraded 3.3-liter configuration, a rare period color, and recent mechanical attention. The convergence of these factors explains why it stands out even among other 930 Turbos from the same era.