1975 Porsche 911 (930) Turbo
Kyosho - 05524W (diecast)
Published 06/05/17
Porsche began experimenting with turbocharging on their race cars during the late 1960s, and in 1972 began development of a turbocharged version of the 911. In the beginning the idea behind turbocharging in passenger cars was only for homologation purposes. First unveiled in 1974, the 930 Turbo was basically a 911 with a turbocharged engine derived from the mighty 917/30, but because of the extra power output, brakes, suspension and gearbox had to be beefed up. To create more downforce at the rear a rear spoiler was installed and wider tires (with flared wheel arches) were added to increase grip and stability.
The heart of the beast was an air-cooled 6 cylinders boxer . It displaced 2994 cm³ and had SOHC, with a single KKK turbocharger. The driver had 260 hp at his disposal. That allowed a 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds and a top speed just a little shy of 250 km/h.
The 930 was very fast but due to its short wheelbase and rear engine layout it was prone to oversteer. And to make things even more interesting there was also the famous turbo lag. If it occurred in the middle of a corner, that could spell disaster. Because of that and the fact that most owners were mostly inexperienced boy racers, it earned the nickname of “Widow Maker”.
But in 1:43 form, the 930 Turbo is a little gem. Kyosho made a VERY nice model, and with bonus opening features. However, being blunt, the best part of these features is that the shut lines are very tight. With such a small engine, and with those huge dog leg hinges (specially up front) such a nice model like this is better off with everything closed. Still, I l-o-v-e-d it 🥰.