1987 Porsche 924 S 2.5 Liter Inline 4 from North America
Summary:
A rare, unique and underestimated piece of driving pleasure
Faults:
The OEM upper radiator hose cracked in Nov. of 2003, not bad for 16 year old rubber!
Engine mounts are shot, and car idles rough at idle. Once you rev it though it smooths out.
Power-steering resevoirr leaked due to loose clamp.
General Comments:
The 924S is the little brother of the 944. Has the same transmission, engine... everything short of the wide body fenders. I hope to hold onto this car for years to come, its pure driving pleasure.
-The Good.
Though its not the fastest car out there, with a 0-60 speed of 7.5 seconds, it more than makes up for its braking peformance and ability to handle even the most twisted roads all at high speeds, with a slight (very slight) hint of understeer.
Though quick, its not overpowered, a great first car. Its very neutral in its handling, a 48/52 weight distribution keeps the car in contact with the road at all times. You need to seriously try, and have poor tires in order to get them to break lose.
Its interior looks like a 80's sports car. Everything is laid out very neatly and organized, no clutter, no fumbling for any switches, no need to take your eyes off the road.
Seats are comfortable even after 4-5 hour drives, although could use a little better lumbar support.
A surprising amount of cargo space available.
Engines are not as complicated as you may think (though look below).
- The Bad.
When doing repairs, you may often find yourself thinking "Who the hell designed this thing?".
Parts from the dealer can be very expensive, best too look for on-line sellers.
The car can have a high 'startup' cost if there are no maitenance records. Timing belt, water pump, balance belt and all rollers should be replaced. This can cost as much as $1500 with labor, figure $500 if you do the work yourself.
Engine is of the interference type. If the timing belt breaks, the pistons will crash into the valves causing $1500+ dollars in repairs. Belts need to be changed at 45K miles, and re-tensioned at intervals of 2500 mile and 15000 miles.
Though it has rear seats, its really a two-seater unless you have children in the back.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 12th January, 2004
2nd Mar 2007, 14:13
I also own A PORSCHE 924s. I never drove anything like it before in my life... it's not a drifting car not at all it's hard to brake lose, unless it's raining then it's very fun to drive once you get it side ways you can keep it going very well.. I love my PORSCHE I wouldn't trade it for the world..problems.. so far the radiator falling back into the belt pulleys causing the radiator hose to come in contact with the alternator rubbing a hole. it was like that when I bought the car. drove home and then notice a leak..that's all...