The 1989 Porsche 911 Carrera Turbo-Look (also known as the M491 option) is an iconic model that combines the aggressive styling of the 930 Turbo with the more manageable performance of the 911 Carrera 3.2. For U.S. buyers in the mid-1980s, this was the closest they could get to a true 911 Turbo, as the actual Turbo was not available in the U.S. due to strict emission regulations. As a result, the Turbo-Look (or "Turbo-WTL") package quickly became a sought-after option. This car also has the M470 option which is the Spoiler Delete option; it is 1 of just 22 M470 examples for 1989.
Key features of the 1989 Carrera Turbo-Look:
Turbo-Wide Fenders & Styling: The M491 option provided the wider fenders of the 930 Turbo, giving the car a muscular stance and much more aggressive road presence. The wide body and the signature "tea tray" rear wing (a hallmark of the Turbo models) are the most recognizable features.
Turbo Suspension & Brakes: This was more than just a cosmetic upgrade. The M491 package also included the Turbo's stiffer suspension, ensuring improved handling dynamics. Additionally, the Turbo brakes (larger and more powerful) were added, improving stopping power and providing superior performance, particularly on the track or in more aggressive driving scenarios.
Turbo Wheels: The wider wheels of the 930 Turbo were also included, contributing to the car's more planted and stable driving characteristics.
Emissions Regulations and U.S. Market: The U.S. market was deprived of the 930 Turbo, but the Carrera Turbo-Look was an excellent alternative, offering many of the same visual and performance-enhancing features without the Turbo's higher emissions. This made the Turbo-Look an instant hit, particularly with buyers who wanted the look and feel of the Turbo without the hassle of a restricted model.
Availability: Originally offered in 1984 for the coupe, the Turbo-Look package became available for the Targa and Cabriolet body styles starting in 1985. The 1989 model year, the last for the G-series, represents the final iteration of this highly desirable option, making it an even more appealing collector's item.
Production and Rarity: Production of the Turbo-Look in the U.S. was relatively limited, with only a small percentage of the overall 911 production offering the M491 package. This M470 (Spoiler Delete option) car is 1 of just 22 examples for 1989.This makes these cars highly collectible, especially with low mileage and a well-documented service history like this one with just 33,000 original miles.
Last Year of the G-Body: The 1989 911 Carrera Turbo-Look is one of the last of the G-body cars before the 964 was introduced in 1990. This makes it a significant model in Porsche's history, representing the end of an era for the classic 911 silhouette.
