the unknown 911
History
The Carrera 3.0 is a fairly unknown version of a very widely known car……the Porsche 911.
Don't look for many photos of a Carrera 3.0 in the Porsche database, the brand has little or no archive photos of this model. This translates to today, when even seasoned Porsche enthusiasts know little of this unique and interesting model of 911. It was destined to be a forgotten member of the 911 family, as it began life in the shadow of a predecessor, the venerable Carrera 2.7 (MFI) and ended to make way for the mass produced 911SC.
The Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 appeared at the end of 1975, for the 1976 model year. It replaced the Carrera 2.7, which had been available in 1974 and 1975. (in 1976 there were a few special models made called the Sondermodell – 113, and 20 Police Targs delivered to Belgium). The Carrera 2.7 had an incredible 210 hp engine, borrowed from the already legendary 911 Carrera RS 2.7.
In 1976, Porsche President Ernst Fuhrmann, considered the 911 outdated and technically obsolete. For him, rather than undertaking costly developments to modernize the 911; the future lay with front- engine (aka transaxle) models like the Porsche 924 and 928.
Upon introduction, the Carrera 3.0 arrived with a less powerful engine (200hp) than that of the Carrera 2.7 (210hp). Bored to 2994cm, the 3.0-liter block followed exactly the dimensions of the first Turbo presented in Paris in the autumn of 1974. This block was made of aluminum. Porsche made the decision to use aluminum in their turbo motors because they had found that magnesium, which was used since the 1969 model year, was prone to metal fatigue. With the Carrera 3 liter 930/02 engine being aluminum and naturally aspirated, it is often referred to as the “turbo motor without the turbo”.
A deeper dive in comparing the two Carrera models, one discovers healthy debate regarding performance. Both have their strengths in comparison.
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0 to 100km/h, Both models are virtual identical (6.1 s)
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Top speed goes to the Carrera 2.7 by a narrow 3km/h
Carrera 3.0 - 235km/h
Carrera 2.7 - 238km/h
However, what the Carrera 3.0 proves is that performance is not about displaying horsepower, it’s about the ability to exploit it. The Carrera 3.0 stood alone in its torque optimization. Although power had been dropped by 10hp versus the Carrera 2.7, the torque remained identical. Except that it was now obtained at 4200 rpm instead of 5100 rpm. This lower torque characteristic is immediately noticeable to a driver who has experience with other G body models such as the Carrera 2.7, 911SC, and Carrera 3.2. It is also noticeable in testing.
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In a rolling acceleration test, which was conducted by putting the car in 5th gear and accelerating from 40 to 160km/h (25-100mph), the Carrera 3.0 is 3 seconds faster, despite the car being 45kg heavier than the Carrera 2.7 due to improved soundproofing.
With the tires and weight being similar, these figures speak volumes about the Carrera 3.0's potential despite the reduced power.
Model Year Distinctions– changes from 1976 to 1977 models
After the Carrera 3.0 had been in the market for only a year, a few changes/improvements were introduced for the following model year (1977).
Brake Booster - Technically speaking, the most noticeable change was the use of a brake booster, which significantly increased braking performance.
Omega Spring - The Omega spring is a helper spring used in the clutch release mechanism. It is shaped like the Greek letter "Ω" (omega) and plays a crucial role in reducing the effort needed to operate the clutch pedal.
Interior –
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The dashboard received two adjustable ventilation grilles in the center
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For the first time a system of automatic temperature control was used, which was installed between the front seats where the mechanical control was situated before.
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The doors received the novel twist- lock mechanism, which would make it much more difficult for thieves to open the doors. A real improvement over the previously-used pull-out mechanisms.
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Almost unnoticed, something also changed in the rear seats: the direction of the dart changed from vertical to horizontal. Presumably, this was forgotten during changeover from the F to the G model, when the direction had similarly changed in the front seats.
With 2,546 coupes and 1,105 Targas sold, the 911 Carrera 3.0 had fulfilled its purpose to fill the gap after the Carrera 2.7 and it would be replaced in 1978 by the much more widely produced 911SC (approximately 59,000), which would lose even more power since it would drop to 180 hp. This was the beginning of a financial valley for Porsche which concentrated on the 924 and the 928, and profits did not follow, and customers who loved the 911 were left wanting more.
Porsche's image gradually deteriorated, and with old cars no longer in fashion, the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 gradually fell into oblivion.
How many Carrera 3.0s are still around?
The answer to this question is a tough one, and can only be answered with some speculation. The Carrera 3.0 was known as a driver's car, some even call it the GT3 of it's time. The car was raced at the track often. The coveted engine was often removed from the car for use in purpose-built race cars, leaving the rolling chassis missing a key piece that makes the Carrera 3.0 special and different. In fact, of the cars listed on the Carrera 3.0 Registry, 25% of them lack the original 930/02 motor.
It is difficult to put a number on the original Carrera 3.0s still in existence with so many being "lost" over time due to cannibalization of the engine, lack of proper care and maintenance, and normal accident attrition and/or neglect. You can combine that with the fact that only enlightened enthusiasts have proven to take an interest in them. All this, along with the low production numbers, the true number is unknown. Finding an original Carrera 3.0 that is unmodified, with matching engine/transmission, that is period correct or options/colors that match an accompanying COA (Certificate of Authenticity), is rare indeed. Furthermore, finding a low mile, all original (paint, interior, engine, transmission, options, etc.) "garage queen" Carrera 3.0 definitely approaches "unicorn" status.
In looking at the production numbers alone, it’s easy to see why finding nice examples of the 911 models that followed the Carrera 3.0s, is a much easier task.
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911SC - 59,000 units
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Carrera 3.2 - 76,500 units
Current/Future Value?
This is another question that must be answered with some speculation. What is known, is not unlike many other classic Porsche 911s, value is driven by a number of factors. Rarity, condition, originality, and demand are probably the most prevalent. Also, it has been proven by sales that Porsche cars that are period correct with original equipment are the best at holding their value. You’ll notice that mileage/odometer readings are not on the list as a value indicator. This is because there is really no concrete way to determine actual miles unless you have service documentation from day 1, where mileage was documented at each service and tied all together over time. Therefore, it is a fair assumption that all of these cars are TMU (total mileage unknown)
Here are the factors that matter---
Rarity – The Carrera 3.0 has this covered as stated with its low production numbers. (scroll down to see a complete chart)
Condition – What kind of condition is the car in?
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Paint condition - Is the paint original? If not, was the repaint documented with receipts and pictures?
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Rust – is there superficial rust on the undercarriage or is it structural? These cars were galvanized, but if left neglected, rust can be a problem
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Interior – Is it original? If it has been replaced is it factory and/or period correct?
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Mechanical - Does it mechanically function properly? engine, transmission, suspension. Are there service receipts? Do all the systems and equipment function properly, etc.
Originality – matching engine, matching transmission, paint, interior, options.
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Is a COA available?
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Do all the specs of the car match the COA?
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What out of spec mods have been done?
Demand – There are several forces at work that have historically held the demand for the Carrera 3.0 in check. But two things stand out.
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It is most often associated with the mass produced 911SC.
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It looks like a 911SC – This is true as body dimensions are almost, if not exactly the same.
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Both the 911SC and the Carrera 3.0 motors have the same 3.0L displacement. The common practice is to dismiss these two motors as identical, when in fact they are not. They are different, both in design and performance. Nonetheless because of the displacement equality, assumptions are made.
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The Carrera name - within the Porsche brand, has been diluted into commonplace.
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The Carrera 3.0 was the last car Porsche made where the "Carrera" name meant it was a special model 911 for that period.
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After the Carrera 3.0, “Carrera" has become part of the common nomenclature of the 911, and in the more modern era during the 90s, all base model 911s were given the “Carrera” badge which holds to this day. See "Bonus Material" below for more info on the "Carrera" label.
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In Summary
Still very much unknown, often mislabeled, and misunderstood, the 911 Carrera 3.0 remains a car for connoisseurs. It finds itself between the two preceding Carreras (2.7 MFI and 2.7 RS)….. and the mass produced and less expensive 911SC. The Carrera 3.0 lies somewhere between these two eras, where only enlightened enthusiasts seem to reside. It seems to warrant the label given by an anonymous Porsche enthusiast -
der unbekannte 911
the unknown 911
Bonus Material - Carrera, is it a diluted label?
The word "Carrera" has an intriguing history tied to Porsche, rooted in both language and motorsport legacy. It originates from the Spanish word "Carrera," meaning "race" or "course," which itself derives from the Latin "carraria," referring to a roadway for vehicles. Porsche adopted this term to evoke speed, competition, and prestige, aligning with its brand identity.
The connection to Porsche began in 1953, inspired by the Carrera Panamericana, a legendary and grueling open-road race held in Mexico from 1950 to 1954. Known as one of the most dangerous races in the world, it covered over 3,000 kilometers across public roads, attracting top drivers and manufacturers. Porsche competed in the 1953 event with its 356 model, equipped with a 1.5-liter engine, and achieved a respectable class result. To honor this participation and capitalize on the race’s fame, Porsche introduced the "Carrera" badge later that year on its high-performance 356 models, specifically those fitted with the four-cam racing engine designed by Ernst Fuhrmann. The Porsche 356A 1500 GS Carrera debuted in 1955, marking the first official use of the name in its lineup.
The Carrera name gained further prominence with the Porsche 550 Spyder, which triumphed in the 1954 Carrera Panamericana, winning its class and solidifying the term’s association with Porsche’s racing pedigree. Into the 1970s, "Carrera" evolved into a hallmark of Porsche’s performance models, most famously with the 911 series. The Porsche 911 Carrera debuted in 1973 as the 911 Carrera RS 2.7, a homologation special for racing.This was followed by the performance models the MFI Carrera 1974-75 , and the Carrera 3.0 in 1976-1977.
Beyond its literal meaning, "Carrera" became a symbol of Porsche’s engineering prowess and motorsport heritage, blending German precision with the romantic flair of a Spanish term.
The Carrera 3.0 was the last model where the “Carrera” moniker meant it was an upgraded model. During the true 911 “Carrera years” (1973-1977), Porsche also made alternative models. For example:
1973 – 911T, 911E, 911S
1974-77 – 911, 911S
Beginning in 1978, there was no separation of "911" and "Carrera". "Carrera" was used for it's main 911 line, as well as some higher performance models like the RS . The ultra high performance models no longer bare the Carrera name. (GT2/3 cars, 911 Turbo, etc) Starting in 1995 and continuing to this day, "Carrera" refers to the base model 911, diluting even more, the special meaning Porsche bestowed on the Carrera models of the 1970s.
1978-1983 911SC (or Super Carrera)
1984-1989 Carrera 3.2
1989-1994 Carrera 2, Carrera 4
1995-1998 Carrera 2, Carrera 4
1999- Present Carrera = base model
Production
Carrera 3.0 Production Numbers
1976-1977 Model Years only
For comparison:
Carrera 2.7 RS (1973) – 1,580
Carrera 2.7 MFI (1974-76) - 2,264
911 3.0 Turbo (1975-77) – 2,819
911SC (1978-83) – 59,xxx
Carrera 3.2 (1984-89) – 76,xxx
Technical Specifications
Model year: 1976-1977
Model: Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 Coupe / Targa
Engine type: 930.02
Engine type: 6-cylinder boxer engine (air-cooled)
Displacement: 2,994cc
Bore x stroke (mm): 95 x 70.4
Engine power: (KW / PS) 147/200 at speed (rpm) 6,000
Torque (Nm): 255 at speed rpm 4,200
Densification ratio: 8.5: 1
Valve control: OHC (overhead camshaft) 2 valves per cylinder
Fuel system: Bosch K-Jetronic
Ignition: Simple
Transmission: 4-speed man., 5-speed man., 3-speed Sportomatic
Wheels: front / rear 6 J x 15/7 J x 15 (optional in 16in)
Tires: front / rear 185/70 / 215/60
Brakes: front / rear ventilated discs / ventilated discs
Track width: front / rear – 1,369mm(53.9in/1,380mm(54.33in)
Wheelbase: 2,272mm -89.45in
Dimensions L x W x H: 4,291mm(169in) x 1,652mm(65in) x 1320mm(60in)
Curb weight: 1,120 kg (2,469 lbs)
Acceleration: 0 – 100 kmh (0-62mph) 6.3 s
Maximum speed: 230 kmh (143mph)
Quick Facts
Engine: 3.0 Liter
Engine type: 930/02
Horsepower: 200
Weight: 2,410 lbs (less with no sunroof and Air Cond)
Total Production – 3,691
⁃ Never officially imported into the United States. The US version, designated the 911S, was a variation of the 2.7 Liter (Magnesium) model with 165hp.
- Unusual for having a 5-blade cooling fan – although it is a popular modification to replace this with the newer 11 blade version
- Uses same aluminum crank case as the 911 Turbo (turbo motor without the turbo). This shared unit, codenamed 930/02, was derived from an engine developed for the extremely rare 3.0 RS in 1973. It had higher compression ratios than the standard 3.0-liter Porsche motors
- In contemporary road tests the Carrera 3.0 often posted quicker 0-60mph times than the 911 Turbo
- Renowned for its free-revving engine. Its features a light aluminum crankcase (also used in the 935), a crankshaft inherited from the Carrera RS and a 6- bolt flywheel (lightweight)
- LIGHTER THAN IT’S SUCCESSORS - Carrera 3.0 weighs in at 2,410 lbs
6% lighter than the SC (2,560 lbs)
10% lighter than the 3.2 (at 2,670 lbs)
- Weighs less than the later (1987-1989) stripped down Carrera 3.2 Club Sport which weighed in at 2,580 lbs.
Disclaimer:
The information on carrera30.net is the result of years of dedicated research from countless sources—think old magazine articles, enthusiast reviews, and chats with lifelong Porsche employees, racers, and aficionados. We’ve done our homework, and most of what you’ll find here is accurate to the best of our knowledge. That said, you might come across an opinion or two (it’s an enthusiast site, not a rulebook!).
This site is built by fans, not an official authority. We make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, or applicability of the content. If you have questions about the Carrera 3.0, please reach out to us here
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