1976 Porsche 934
1976 Porsche 934
Brand
Porsche
Year
1976
Country
Germany
Generation
Porsche 911 I (G-Modell)
1976 Porsche 934
Brand
Porsche
Year
1976
Country
Germany
Generation
Porsche 911 I (G-Modell)
About this car
Discover the history
The 1976 Porsche 934 stands as one of Porsche’s most revered racing machines, specifically developed to comply with Group 4 racing regulations. It was the predecessor to the more famous 935 but carved its own legacy in international racing events. Designed as a turbocharged version of the 911 Carrera RSR, the 934 retained much of its production-car roots while adding race-focused elements that allowed it to dominate its class.
Under the hood, the 934 utilized a turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine, derived from the production 911 Turbo, also known as the 930. This engine produced an impressive 485 horsepower, paired with a four-speed manual transaxle. The KKK turbocharger, coupled with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection, was the cornerstone of its power delivery. This setup allowed the 934 to reach top speeds upwards of 190 mph, a remarkable feat for the time. Its handling was enhanced by the use of independent MacPherson strut front suspension, trailing arm rear suspension, and adjustable coil-over shocks, which helped keep the car agile in various racing conditions. The braking system was also a focal point, with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels ensuring the 934 could handle the demands of endurance racing.
Aesthetically, the 934 retained much of the iconic 911 silhouette but was modified with larger fender flares to accommodate wider racing tires, a prominent rear wing for improved downforce, and a front spoiler to enhance aerodynamics. Inside, the car was stripped of most non-essential elements, adhering to the regulations and focusing on weight reduction and safety, which included a roll cage and fire suppression systems.
In terms of racing pedigree, the Porsche 934 was a formidable competitor in the Group 4 category. Only 31 examples were built between 1976 and 1977, making it a rare and highly sought-after car. It achieved significant success in various racing series, particularly in endurance events. In 1976, the car competed in the German National Championship with Porsche-Kremer Racing, securing a fourth-place finish in the European Grand Touring category. The 934’s success didn’t end there; it went on to claim a class victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1977, finishing seventh overall. Its racing career extended to other prestigious events, such as the 6 Hours of Silverstone in 1978, where it also secured a class win. Other victories include notable performances at tracks like Monza, Dijon, and Spa, contributing to its legendary status.
The 934 remained competitive even as newer models like the 935 emerged, thanks to continuous updates and modifications. Many teams adapted their cars to keep pace with evolving competition, leading to extended careers for several 934s well into the late 1970s. The car’s blend of road-car origins and advanced race engineering allowed it to bridge the gap between production-based racing machines and the more extreme prototypes that followed.
Today, the Porsche 934 is highly regarded not only for its success on the track but also for its role in Porsche’s racing evolution. Restored examples of the car can fetch over a million dollars at auction, and they continue to participate in historic racing events, maintaining their place in motorsport history. These factors have made the 934 a cherished part of Porsche’s racing legacy, holding its own against the more celebrated 935 in the annals of endurance racing.
