The Tao of Steve’s Turbo Carrera

Stories abound that McQueen did everything he could to use the car as it was intended, and in that way, I imagine he had great fun with it

by Jim Schrager

In 1976, Porsche unveiled what was to be the first production 911 Turbo, known internally as a 930 and externally as the Turbo Carrera. Their success in recent racing had been achieved with turbocharged engines, and for the first time, Porsche applied this racing technology to a production road car.

When introduced, the Turbo Carrera garnered much attention, not only for its thrilling performance but also for its avant-garde styling, which included wide fender flares and a distinctive rear spoiler.

This example of a 1976 Turbo Carrera is unusual, being one of only 530 originally imported to the U.S. that year. However, this one has the more important distinction of being specially ordered and originally owned by film star Steve McQueen. By that time, the King of Cool had already owned, driven, and raced several Porsches, including a 356 Speedster, a 917, and several 911s. His affinity for the German marque was well known. McQueen ordered his...