Before diving in, I want to say how privileged I felt getting behind the wheel of two supercars of their respective eras and how thoroughly enjoyable, and different, both were. Still, even though the 930 Turbo has benefited from some serious modifications, and the playing field isn’t perfectly level, the outcome might just surprise you.

My accomplice in this video is our very own Beth—who, as the friendly voice at the end of the sales phone, has driven a vast range of Porsches. Her youthful perspective offers a refreshing and authentic take.

—

The 930 Turbo (1987)

Let’s start with the classic 930. While available figures on total production for 1987 vary, Porsche initially planned a 500-unit run—but that nearly doubled to 1,000 as demand surged, spotlighting the model’s instant cult status.

As for pricing, the Turbo carried a hefty premium: when new in the U.S., it cost about $25,880, versus $13,845 for a naturally aspirated 911—making it roughly 80% more expensive.

That steep price was matched by performance. The 930 in that era earned its “Widow‑maker” nickname for a reason. We’ll use your stated spec: 1,150 kg with around 400 bhp.

—

The 997 Turbo (2007)

Fast forward to the modern era—the 997‑generation Turbo. In 2007, it boasted a 3.6 L twin‑turbo flat‑6, rated at 480 PS (≈473 bhp) and 620 Nm of torque, with potential for 680 Nm via overboost.

Performance numbers are jaw‑dropping:

– 0–100 km/h (0‑62 mph) in about 3.9 s with manual, or 3.7 s with Tiptronic S.
– Motor Trend clocked 0–60 mph in just 3.2 seconds in testing.
– It tops out at approximately 310 km/h (~193 mph).

Curious? The curb weight is around 1,585 kg (3,495 lb).

—

Power‑to‑Weight Comparison

Let’s break down the power‑to‑weight ratios:

– 930 Turbo:
   – Power: 400 bhp
   – Weight: 1,150 kg
   → ≈ 0.348 bhp/kg or ≈ 348 bhp per tonne.

– 997 Turbo:
   – Power: 473 bhp
   – Weight: 1,585 kg
   → ≈ 0.299 bhp/kg or ≈ 299 bhp per tonne.

Even though the 997 Turbo is obviously faster and more advanced overall, the lighter 930 Turbo—especially in modified form—can hold its own in pure power‑to‑weight terms. That’s part of what makes the classic so intoxicating.

—

My Dream Garage Verdict

The 930 Turbo is the kind of Porsche I’d genuinely want in my dream garage—not for perfection, but for raw, analog fun. Its twitchy, old‑school character is precisely why it’s so beloved.

Yet, contrast that with the 997 Turbo: it sits there quietly, waiting to unleash sublime thrust through technical excellence. Different beams of the same Porsche soul—one visceral, one refined.

So, if your garage could only host one: choose the 930 for analog eccentricity and watery smiles, or the 997 for effortless, modern supercar dominance. I’m lucky to have driven them both, and that contrast is the magic.