1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GT

Volkswagen's decision not to proceed with their designed-by-Porsche 914 replacement led to the latter taking on the project themselves. Launched in November 1975, the resulting 924 drew heavily on Volkswagen/Audi components: the 2-litre, four-cylinder, overhead-camshaft engine being a development of the Audi 100's, and the 4-speed transaxle a VW unit. A 5-speed Porsche-designed gearbox and improvements to the suspension were early developments and in 1978 came the first truly high-performance 924 - the Turbo. The latter's extra 45bhp raised the top speed to around 150mph and this figure would be further improved upon by the 924 Carrera GT. A road model with competition potential, the luxuriously equipped Carrera GT was launched at the 1979 Frankfurt Show. Easily distinguishable from lesser 924s by virtue of its bonnet air intake and widened wheel arches, the Carrera GT was built in limited numbers - only 406 were made - 400 cars being the minimum requirement to gain homologation for rallying and 'Group 4' events. The standard version came with 210bhp but this could be boosted to well over 300bhp for racing. Three cars were entered by the works in the 1980 Le Mans 24-Hour Race, finishing sixth, 12th and 13th.

Offered here is a UK-supplied 924 Carrera GT sold by Maltin Car Concessionaires Ltd in February 1981, its first owners having specified the C-16 (UK-spec) GT in Guards Red with a black leatherette and black/red pinstripe interior. Options included headlamp washers, electric door mirrors, rear window wiper, sport steering wheel, sport shocks, electric windows, 911-type forged alloy wheels and air-conditioning.

On offer from a private Collection of landmark Porsches from all eras, our knowledgeable vendor sourced this example from a specialist dealer in 2015 to form part of his garage. Since 2015, it has been correctly dry-stored and maintained impeccably by highly regarded marque specialists, Autofarm. Within the extensive history file are invoices that outline significant investment for works that appear to amount to a mechanical refresh.

The beautifully presented history file includes a copy of the original factory spec, complete ownership history, MOTs dating back to 1985, tax discs, a wealth of invoices for maintenance over the years, the book pack including the original service book, current V5C and various other documents.

This rare and exciting Porsche is presented to auction absolutely up to date, having just been checked over and serviced by Autofarm on 28th June 2024 with a fresh MOT valid until July 2025. This is a great opportunity to take ownership of a rarely seen Porsche that is guaranteed to attract all the right attention at any classic car event.