#06: Revitalizing the Porsche 930's Legacy

A Renewed Focus on Design

Our collaboration with Reis & Reis on the interior rejuvenated our spirits, prompting us to revisit the exterior design of our project. We initially admired Matteo's rendition for its elegance, but over time, its charm faded into a sense of ordinariness. It lacked that distinctive edge.

Reanalyzing the 930: Capturing the Essence

We delved deeper into the Porsche 930's design, identifying key elements that were missing in our current version. While we had incorporated features like the front hood's opening extending to the bumper and its straight line, upright headlights, and pronounced bumpers, we realized we missed some quintessential aspects.

Notably absent were the rubberized center and side bumper accents, the distinctive "smile" between the bumper and hood, and the fog lights. The rear design, though including wider fenders and squarish bumpers, also missed the rubberized bumper accents. Most crucially, it lacked the iconic oversized spoiler that is the 930's hallmark.

The Key to Authenticity: The Iconic Spoiler

We zeroed in on the spoiler, a crucial element of the 930's identity. The Porsche 930 boasts two iconic spoiler designs: the Whale Tail and the Tea Tray. Here's a closer look at each:

Whale Tail Spoiler

• Design: This spoiler's large, whale tail-like shape is known for its smooth, flowing lines.

• Function: It enhances rear downforce, boosting traction and stability at high speeds.

• Historical Context: A signature of 1970s and 1980s Porsche sports cars, it first appeared in early 930 models.

Tea Tray Spoiler

• Design: Named for its resemblance to a tea tray, it features a flat, rectangular shape with raised, boxed edges.

• Function: Similar in purpose to the Whale Tail, it offers a more aggressive approach to aerodynamic efficiency.

• Historical Context: This spoiler was integrated into later 930 models, especially those with intercooled engines, reflecting advancements in aerodynamics.

Both spoilers, while serving the same aerodynamic purpose, exhibit distinct design philosophies and aerodynamic principles. The Whale Tail is all about smooth airflow, whereas the Tea Tray aggressively manages air with its angular, boxed design.

The Path Forward: Redefining the Exterior

Recognizing the need for a design that truly embodies the spirit of the Porsche 930, we turned to Reis & Reis. Our goal: to craft an exterior that not only pays homage to the 930's legacy but also stands out with its unique character. This pursuit marks a new chapter in our project, one that blends reverence for the past with the innovation of the present.