Lot 343: 1982 Porsche 911 Turbo Coupé

Much of the Porsche 911’s development had resulted from the factory’s racing programme, and it was the then Group 4 homologation rules, which required 400 road cars to be built, which spurred the development of ‘Project 930’ - the legendary 911 Turbo. In production from April 1975, the Turbo married a KKK turbocharger to the 3.0-litre RSR engine, in road trim a combination that delivered 260bhp for a top speed of 155mph. But the Turbo wasn’t just about top speed, it was also the best-equipped 911 and amazingly flexible - hence only four speeds in the gearbox - being capable of racing from a standstill to 100mph in 14 seconds.
The Turbo’s characteristic flared wheelarches and ‘tea tray’ rear spoiler had already been seen on the Carrera model, while the interior was the most luxurious yet seen in a 911, featuring leather upholstery, air conditioning and electric windows. The Turbo’s engine was enlarged to 3.3 litres for 1978, gaining an inter-cooler in the process; power increased to 300bhp and the top speed of what was the fastest-accelerating road car of its day went up to 160mph. More refined than hitherto yet retaining its high performance edge, the Turbo sold in the thousands, becoming the definitive sports car of its age.
This original and unrestored right-hand drive 911 Turbo has enjoyed only three owners: the first until 1985, the second until May 2001 and the current since then. The vendor advises us that the car has been looked after by a local 911 specialist and has proven very reliable, with no major works needed. Finished in red with matching leather upholstery, ‘MEC 777X’ comes with substantial service history - including the original service booklet and all expired MoTs - road fund licence to October 2008, Swansea V5 registration document and current MoT.