Forty Years, Same Owner: 1978 Porsche 924 Still Rocks Hard
Some tasteful upgrades and a long history with one loving family makes this early 924 more desirable than most.
For years, the Porsche 924 – especially the earliest models – were maligned by so-called Porsche purists. The previous owner of this car may have gotten the last laugh, however.
Not that long ago, it was easy to buy an early, four-speed Porsche 924 like this one for $3,500 or less, regardless of condition. That car seen here remained with its previous owner for over forty years. Last week, it sold on Bring A Trailer for just over $7,000.
The combination of a four-speed transaxle, rear drum brakes, and a 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine making barely over 100 horsepower did little to endear the earliest 924s to enthusiasts until recently. As the saying goes, “a rising tide raises all ships.”
Worth a Second Look
Despite its perceived shortcomings, these early 924s were a technological leap forward from the 914s they replaced. Like the 924, the 914 also shared many components from the VW/Audi parts bin, but, for whatever reason, history has remembered that car better.
This Dolomite Grey example presents very well, and it has a few tasteful upgrades. The vented nose panel and hood were sourced from a 924 Turbo (931). Meanwhile, the rear spoiler and taillights came from a 944. The ATS telephone dial wheels, while not original, look right at home here.
The interior looks just as good as the exterior, with just the slightest bit of discoloration on the driver’s seat cloth. A dash cover could be either hiding or protecting the easily-cracked original dash, but either way, it presents well. We’d consider this car to be very well-bought, even at this price.
With air-cooled 911 prices continuing to reach dizzying heights, it’s good to see the “forgotten Porsches” of this era finally receive the attention they deserve. Don’t let anyone tell you that these cars are merely stepping stones to a “real” Porsche. The truth is, the front-engine, water-cooled Porsches offer a unique and captivating driving experience all their own.
If you have a chance, you should drive one. You very well may be surprised by how much you enjoy it. You will, more than likely, find a new appreciation for Porsches with the engine at the “wrong” end.
Photos: Bring A Trailer
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