The 1980s was a decade filled with terrible cars, the gas crisis, and unimaginative automotive design. However, it was during this dark period that the Porsche 930 Slantnose emerged, bringing the wonder of pop-up headlights to the automotive world. The Porsche 930 Slantnose, also known as flachbau, was part of the Porsche 911 lineup, specifically the 930 generation.

While most cars from the 1980s were lackluster, the Porsche 930 Slantnose stood out with its excellence in engineering, styling, and precision. The three generations of the Slantnose were built across the 1980s, with only 948 of these cars ever made. This exclusivity has made the Porsche 930 Slantnose a highly sought-after classic, with some models fetching prices of over $360,000 at auction.

Before The Reveal, Prototype Porsche 930 Slantnose Models Were Built

Prior to the official production of the Porsche 930 Slantnose, several prototype models were built. One of these early cars was created in 1980 for a special Porsche customer, Gerhard Siegfried Amann. This prototype featured a hammerhead-style front bumper, which was later replaced when the Special Wishes Program was launched in 1985.

What Special Wishes Upgrades Were Added?

Under the Special Wishes program, the prototype Porsche 930 Slantnose received a new black paint scheme, an engine upgrade to 330 horsepower for enhanced performance, and a DP Motorsport 935-style front valance. To commemorate its status, a brass plaque with the Porsche crest and a unique code identifying Mr. Amann was added to the car’s glovebox lid.

Specifications

This prototype Porsche 930 Slantnose received special recognition, and its exclusivity was marked with a plaque and a unique code.

The First Generation Produced the Smallest Number Of Porsche 930 Slantnose Cars

The first generation of the Porsche 930 Slantnose featured a smoother, flat-faced look with small bumpers where the headlights were located. Only 58 models of this generation were produced, all in the Restoration and Repair Department of Werks 1. This limited production was likely due to Porsche’s uncertainty about the popularity of the program during the early stage.

How did Sonderwunsch Impact This First Porsche 930 Slantnose?

The Sonderwunsch program, meaning Special Wishes in German, allowed customers to add special items to their sports cars. In the first generation of the Porsche 930 Slantnose, special sill or rocker covers were offered. However, due to its limited production, Porsche did not heavily invest in this program during this time.

Pop-Up Headlights Appeared In Second-Generation Porsche 930 Slantnose Models

In the second-generation Porsche 930 Slantnose, pop-up headlights were introduced. These models were still part of the Sonderwunsch Program and were available only as special order versions of the car. With a production of only 204 cars, this generation featured a more elegant front air dam, centrally-mounted oil cooler, and optional air-intake vents on the hood.

What Upgrades Were Part Of This Generation?

Most second-generation models of the Porsche 930 Slantnose had boxed sill covers, rear air-intake vents, and a custom interior. The 330-horsepower powertrain was also offered during this generation. While these cars were still produced at the Restoration and Repair Department, they were part of the longer-running second generation.

The Final Generation Featured The Greatest Numbers

The final generation of the Porsche 930 Slantnose lasted only two years but had the highest production numbers. Out of the 686 models produced, 630 were shipped to the United States, making it the most prevalent generation. All cars were assembled at the main production line in Zuffenhausen and finished at the Restoration and Repair Department in Werks 1.

Two Versions Of The Final Slantnose Went To Different Markets

The Porsche 930 Slantnose models delivered to the United States were the M505 versions, featuring a standard 3.3-liter turbocharged engine with a catalytic converter. These models had their oil coolers mounted in the right rear wheel arch behind the air-intake vents. On the other hand, the M506 models sent to the U.K. had a centrally positioned oil cooler, which was not permitted in the United States.

Slantnose Porsche Sports Cars Rake In The Dough

Adding the Porsche 930 Slantnose package to a car through the Special Wishes program significantly increased the vehicle’s price. The package could cost as much as half the original car price, making it quite expensive, especially considering the engine upgrade in the second generation. The exclusivity and rarity of the Porsche 930 Slantnose have made it highly valuable over the years.

How Much Does A Porsche 930 Slantnose Cost Today?

The value of a Porsche 930 Slantnose depends on factors such as condition, rarity, and desirability. Third-generation models, which were shipped to the United States in larger numbers, are now valued at over $200,000, with some models reaching prices of up to $360,000 at auction.

Despite the generally poor reputation of cars from the 1980s, the Porsche 930 Slantnose stands out as a rare gem. Its unique design, featuring pop-up headlights and stunning styling, combined with its limited production, make it a highly coveted collector’s item.