924: 1977 to 1988

2-door, 2+2 coupe. Porsche's first attempt at a front-engined sports coupe was far from ideal. Lacklustre 4-cylinder engine and VW/Audi underpinnings resulted in an uninspiring driving experience. Later turbo models offered decent performance but with every enhancement came a price increase which saw it costing more than £20,000 when it ceased production in 1988. Limited edition turbo charged Carrera GT and GTS models provided serious performance. Now cheap to buy and to run, the 924 offers the Porsche buyer on a tight budget a way into owning a piece of Stuttgart . We say save up and buy a 944.

924 - Wheelbase (mm): 2400 - Length/Width (mm): 4213/1676

Significant developments: 4-cylinder engine, 4-speed transaxle gearbox, front MacPherson struts and rear semi-trailing arm suspension, 4 stud 5.5x14" steel wheels and floating calipers. 3-speed auto transmission based on VW/Audi assembly but with ratios specific to the 924.

1977: Getrag 5-speed dog leg gearbox becomes an option. Rubbing strips added. Martini 924 SE model offered.

1978: Entire bodyshell is now hot-dipped zinc coated. Oval tailpipe introduced.

1979: Separate air blowers improve ventilation.

1980: 5-speed Audi derived gearbox introduced. Fuel tank capacity raised from 62 to 66 litres, second fuel pump fitted. Le Mans SE model offered.

1981: Carrera GT introduced. Kurzhals fuel pump introduced. 50 th Jubilee SE model offered.

1982: Carrera GTS introduced. Limited slip differential becomes an option. Torque converter upgraded on auto gearbox. Ventilation system upgraded. 911 3-spoke steering wheel becomes standard.

1983: T urbo's spoiler becomes standard. Front anti-roll bar uprated to 21mm.

1984: 924 gets 944 tilt slide roof mechanism.

1985: Production of 924 ends, production of 924S begins.

1986: September, 924S arrives in UK using same bodyshell. 2.5 litre engine shared with 944 (as gearbox, brakes and suspension) but de-tuned.

1987: Rear axles strengthened.

1988: Last year of production sees 924 share 944 engines. Power steering now fitted as standard. Le Mans SE special edition offered.