Porsche 924 / 924 Turbo / 924 S (1976–1988)

De Porsche 924 was developed by Porsche in the 1970s and was actually intended as a measure of risk diversification. 911 sales were going very well, but the company did not want to rely solely on the success of the 911. After all, a drop in demand could cause problems. So, Porsche conceived the plan to produce a car that would combine Porsche's sporty character with fuel efficiency and be more practical than the 911.

The 924 was developed as an entry-level sports car from Porsche and was originally designed in collaboration with Volkswagen. With its front-mounted four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive, the 924 offered a sporty driving experience combined with affordability and reliability. The 924 became a significant step for Porsche to tap into new markets, particularly in the US, and laid the foundation for the later 944 and 968.

Porsche 924

A bit Volkswagen, a bit Audi

This was internally designated Project EA425, and this model was intended to be a 2+2 Sport coupé using primarily Audi and Volkswagen parts. The intention was to release the EA425 entirely as a Volkswagen, and not as a VoPo (Volkswagen Porsche, like the 914). Additionally, the aim was for this model to have a longer lifespan than the average car model and thus serve as the basis for further developments. Given environmental developments, particularly in the United States, it was decided to use a water-cooled engine. The idea of ​​placing the engine at the front and the gearbox at the rear arose because it would create a nearly perfect 50/50% weight distribution, which naturally resulted in better handling. A mid-engine configuration was not an option because it would require the removal of the rear seats, making it less practical.

The block of the was chosen as the basis for the engine. Audi 100 with a single overhead camshaft and a cylinder capacity of 1984 cc. The 4-speed gearbox was originally a modified Audi gearbox. The suspension and steering system were primarily made from common Volkswagen and Audi parts. The front suspension was of the McPherson type with springs and shock absorbers, and the rear suspension came from the Volkswagen 1302 Superbeetle, consisting of torsion springs.

The Dutchman Harm Lagaay signs the 928

The design of the car was to be entirely in the hands of Porsche and was drawn by, among others, the Dutchman Harm Lagaay! The model was intended to have a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, whereas normally it is only 2 to 3 years. This longer period was necessary to recoup the investment without too many modifications to the model. The result of all this was an attractive design that also had the lowest drag coefficient of its time. Then, when the development phase was finally nearly completed in the mid-seventies and production facilities were under construction, something happened that would drastically change the future of the EA425! The oil crisis of 1973/74 caused car sales to drop drastically, not only for Porsche, but for every other brand, including Volkswagen. Volkswagen decided to withdraw from the project.

Porsche 924 Interior

Porsche subsequently decided to take over the project—the car was by then nearly finished—and add it to their model range. The deal was closed in early 1975, and the Porsche 924 became a reality. Because Porsche purchased the model from VW at the last minute, no major design changes were possible for the Porsche 924. The 924 also received the same seats as the 911 and a completely unique dashboard.

In the autumn of 1975, the first 924s were to roll off the assembly line under contract with Porsche. Naturally, Porsche retained final inspection to guarantee Porsche's high standards. The Porsche 924 became a huge success! Over 5000 were sold in the first year, and around 2500 the following year.

Competitors

The 924 distinguished itself through well-balanced handling, reliability, and affordable sportiness, making it a popular entry-level model for Porsche enthusiasts.

• Alfa Romeo GTV 2.0
• Fiat X1 / 9
• Datsun 280ZX
• Ford Capri 2.0 / 2.8i

The Porsche 924 Turbo was one of the first affordable Porsche models to introduce turbocharging to the masses. In the 80s, the model became popular among young drivers who wanted a true sports car experience without the high costs of a 911.

The Porsche 924 was succeeded by the Porsche 944, which received many improvements in terms of power, interior, styling, and engine performance, while the transaxle concept was retained.