The Porsche 930 Turbo is an icon, and this 1989 example—available now at Bonhams Cars—represents the final production year of this legendary model. Dressed in the unmistakable Guards Red, this Turbo isn’t just a looker; it’s equipped with the sought-after G50 five-speed gearbox, a game-changer for drivability and performance.
Why the 1989 930 Turbo is So Special
By 1989, Porsche had perfected the 930 Turbo formula. This model pairs the bulletproof 3.3L flat-six engine with the robust and more refined G50 transmission, making it the ultimate iteration of the 930. The improved gearing allows for better acceleration, smoother shifts, and an overall more engaging driving experience.
Factory features include heated and power-adjustable front seats, electric windows, climate control, and a sunroof. A Blaupunkt stereo is also installed, keeping things era-correct while delivering crisp sound for those spirited drives.
Performance That Still Thrills
With a quick startup, effortless power delivery, and a surge of turbocharged excitement, this Porsche is nothing short of exhilarating. The K27 turbocharger upgrade ensures a thrilling ride, while the Borla exhaust produces a symphony of snarls, pops, and roars that keep your pulse racing.
This example feels exceptionally well-sorted, with tight handling and a solid, confidence-inspiring ride. Whether you’re cruising the highway or attacking a backroad, it remains planted and responsive, just as a properly maintained 930 Turbo should.
Immaculate Condition & Expertly Maintained
With only 70,000 miles on the odometer, this Porsche has been meticulously cared for by some of the most renowned names in the air-cooled 911 world. One of its previous owners was Frank Cassidy, a well-respected Porsche enthusiast and collector. Its comprehensive service history includes work by experts such as AutoFarm, JZM Porsche, RPM Technik, RSR Developments, and Paragon Porsche.
Major upgrades performed by Paragon Porsche include:
- Full engine rebuild
- Period-correct Andial intercooler
- Borla performance exhaust
- Larger K27 turbocharger
- Uprated camshafts
- Bilstein performance shock absorbers
- New clutch
- New anti-roll bars, strut brace, and torsion bar plates
The car has also received a full, windows-out respray, ensuring the Guards Red paintwork looks as fresh as it did when it left the factory.
Exterior: Timeless Porsche Styling
This 930 Turbo captures the essence of the 1980s poster car era, its Guards Red paint gleaming under the light. The black powder-coated Fuchs wheels, refinished by AutoFarm in 2019, contrast beautifully against the bodywork and are wrapped in Pirelli P-Zero Rosso (rear) and Yokohama Advan A052 (front) tires.
The panel gaps are tight, doors close with that signature Porsche ‘thunk,’ and all exterior trims remain in excellent condition. The rear spoiler stands firm, and the exterior plastics and rubber components remain deep black, free of any fading or cracks. A few minor stone chips on the front bumper and valance add character but do not detract from the car’s overall outstanding presentation.
Interior: Classic, Driver-Focused Porsche Feel
Inside, the cabin is a masterpiece of simplicity and function. The front leather seats remain well-preserved, offering superb comfort and support. While the red piping on the bolster edges shows minimal wear, the rest of the interior is in remarkable shape, considering the car’s age and mileage.
The dashboard, steering wheel, and switchgear are all in excellent order, as are the headliner, carpets, and floor mats. The driver’s door storage bin is secure, though the passenger-side storage compartment could benefit from reinforcement. The trunk area (frunk) is well-kept, housing a space-saver spare wheel, though the strut could use a re-gas to hold the hood open properly.
Under the Hood & Undercarriage
As expected with a 911 Turbo, the engine bay is neatly tucked away, but what is visible appears clean, dry, and well-maintained. Underneath, the chassis and suspension components look structurally sound, with no alarming signs of corrosion or neglect.
Comprehensive History & Documentation
This 1989 Porsche 930 Turbo comes with an impressive service history, featuring invoices and records from Porsche specialists who have meticulously maintained and upgraded the car. It includes:
- A fully stamped service book
- Thick records of receipts and invoices
- A clean HPI report
- Full sets of keys
- Original guides and manuals
- A valid MoT until October 14, 2025, with no advisories
Own a Piece of Porsche History
This 930 Turbo is not just another classic Porsche; it’s one of the most desirable final-year examples, combining an iconic color, performance upgrades, expert maintenance, and a stellar history. Now, it’s available for auction at Bonhams Cars, offering a rare opportunity to own a truly special piece of automotive history.
If you’ve been searching for an exceptional, well-sorted, and thrilling 930 Turbo, this is it.