1981 Porsche 924 Turbo

Just 39,000 miles and 4 former keepers. Rare car, only 60 924 Turbos remain in the UK

Remarkably genuine condition and accompanied by a large history file

Recently recommissioned by Porsche-approved 'Road & Race Restorations Ltd.' Just serviced by Porsche Bolton

Tipped by enthusiasts to be 'the next big thing'. Really strong movement in the market

Porsche was commissioned by Volkswagen to develop the 924 project – originally conceived as a replacement for the VW-Porsche 914 – but bought the rights to the car back when VW changed tack. Build quality was to the usual superb Porsche standards, and from 1976 the 924 was an instant sales success. In production terms, the 924 was the first Porsche model powered by a water-cooled, front-mounted engine. This arrangement, coupled with rear wheel drive was normal for most other manufacturers, but it was unusual for Porsche having previously only used mid or rear-mounted engines all of which had been air-cooled.

With Porsche at the forefront of turbo technology, and the 924 chassis ripe for exploitation with more power, the 924 Turbo"s development was inevitable. Thanks to a 45bhp power boost that raised top speed by nearly 20 mph, a five-speed gearbox and uprated suspension, the car was very well received and more than 12,000 were sold over a five year period.

Introduced in 1978, the 924 Turbo featured a distinctive row of four extra air-intakes in the nose panel and a NACA duct in the bonnet. Other unique features included aluminium 15-inch spoke-style alloy wheels, four-wheel disc brakes, 5 stud hubs and a discreet but effective rear lip spoiler. In 1979, in response to problems with components failing due to a turbocharger cooled only by engine oil and owners being less than sympathetic, Porsche released a revised 924 Turbo (Series 2). By using a smaller turbocharger running at increased boost, slightly higher compression of 8:1 and an improved fuel injection system with DITC ignition triggered by the flywheel, reliability improved and power rose to 177bhp.

Today, the 924 Turbo is a rare car, with Phillip Watson of the 924 Owners" Club stating “We reckon that there are only about 60 left in the UK.” Their appeal is widening, especially in mainland Europe, says fellow club member Steven Cooper and prices are on the march. Steven also points out that Porsche Centre Bolton chose a 924 Turbo to demonstrate its Porsche-approved restoration skills. Phillip claims that an independent classic Porsche dealer is quietly buying all models of 924 because he sees them as the "next big thing". Another 924 Turbo fan is high-profile Porsche enthusiast Magnus Walker of the USA, who has treated himself to a 924 Turbo.

The car presented here is a 1981 924 Turbo (Series 2) in Onyx Metallic Green, which has covered just 39,000 miles with only four former keepers, the first two of which kept the car for a combined 20 year period. Due to these factors, it appears in a very genuine and well-preserved condition. It is believed to still retain its original paintwork and interior, along with original and untouched 15" forged wheels with period correct Michelin XWX tyres.

The car is accompanied by an original Porsche service schedule booklet which is stamped as part of a full book-pack, plus a key pouch with three original fob keys and two spare keys, tool roll and warning triangle. There is also a large and comprehensive history file, containing extensive copy invoices for servicing and maintenance. These elements all help to support the very authentic impression the car portrays.

This special car has just recently benefitted from a comprehensive 12-month mechanical recommissioning programme carried out by Porsche-approved 'Road & Race Restorations Ltd.' This same acclaimed company was used by Porsche Bolton to restore their 924 Turbo and 924 GT, both of which commanded much praise and hefty sale price tags. The sympathetic work carried out was in keeping with the car"s originality which, along with a major service at Porsche Bolton, just made a great example better.

This is truly a fine example of what is considered a Porsche model ripe for more market attention and may represent a very rare opportunity to acquire such a low mileage and genuine example.