1987 Porsche 924S: Rally Beast
Ah, the 1987 Porsche 924S, reimagined into a rugged rally monster – a fascinating transformation. This gutsy survivor has been through the punishing terrains of the Baja XL and Coastal Range Rewind rallies, still kicking after all those miles. Something about this car speaks volumes about resilience, doesn't it?
The 2.5-liter inline-four, shared with its contemporary, the 944, might have been factory-rated at a modest 150 horsepower, but I believe it's not always about raw power, but how you wield it. And wield it, this car did, with its rear-mounted five-speed manual transaxle and limited-slip differential. One could see the careful attention to detail given to keep this beast running – timing belt, clutch kit, drive belt, and even engine mounts replaced in 2018, and more recently, an oil change and the radiator and coolant hoses replaced in 2023.
The outward transformation is as compelling as its mechanical overhaul. The once elegant Guards Red has been swathed in a rough-and-ready exterior of vinyl livery graphics. Its look is completed by a rugged Yakima roof rack, fuel jugs, a Warn winch, skid plates, and Hella 500 rally LED lights. Quite the makeover from a city cruiser to a desert bruiser. It's evident that this car is ready for any apocalypse.
I can't overlook the interior which tells another story, blending the past with the present. The vintage black leatherette seats paired with a modern short-shift kit and a MOMO Monte Carlo steering wheel. The Porsche Classic radio navigation unit with Bluetooth, alongside a CB radio, give it an old-school charm with a tech twist.
However, the reality of this hard-lived life can be seen in the cracks on the dash, and the partially repainted exterior with cracked paint on the left quarter panel and right fender. The 98k miles on the odometer could be misleading, with an odometer rollback indicated in the car's history. The mystery of the untold miles it has traversed adds to its allure.
With a winning bid of USD $26,500, one could say it's a steal for such a unique ride. It's not just about owning a car; it's about owning a piece of history, a testament to durability and resilience. The sense of adventure that this 924S embodies is priceless.
Like a person, every car has its own story. This 1987 Porsche 924S, altered from a posh city car into a ruthless rally champion, speaks volumes about adaptation and survival. It's a metaphor for life – not just about the miles traversed, but the experiences gained.
Certainly, every product has its benefits and drawbacks. Let's examine the pros and cons of this 1987 Porsche 924S 5-Speed Baja Rally Car:
Pros:
- Unique and Robust: This car is a one-of-a-kind modified rally vehicle, designed to withstand the demanding environment of the Baja XL and Coastal Range Rewind rallies. Its durability has been tested in real-world, high-stress conditions.
- Comprehensive Modifications: The modifications have been extensive and well thought out, from the exterior protective gear like the skid plates, nudge bar, and winch, to performance-enhancing modifications like the short shift kit, limited-slip differential, and raised suspension.
- Maintained: Significant maintenance work and replacements have been carried out, including a new exhaust system, radiator, and fuel lines. This shows careful ownership and a commitment to preserving the car's performance.
- Character: This car oozes personality. It stands out from the crowd with its unique visual and performance modifications. This could make it highly desirable to enthusiasts looking for something different.
Cons:
- Potential Odometer Inaccuracy: The Carfax report mentions a potential odometer rollback in 2005. This throws the actual mileage of the car into question, which can affect the perceived value and reliability.
- Cosmetic Damage: The car has some cosmetic wear and tear, including cracked paint on the left quarter panel and right fender, as well as cracks on the dashboard. These might be minor, but they can reduce the car's aesthetic appeal to some.
- Comfort: Being a rally-modified car, it might not offer the same level of comfort and refinement as a stock Porsche 924S. The raised suspension, nudge bar, and other modifications may make for a rougher ride and higher noise levels.
- Resale Value: The extensive modifications, while appealing to some, could deter potential buyers who prefer a stock 924S, impacting its future resale value.
- Maintenance Costs: Given the older age and extensive modifications, maintenance costs could be higher than a standard vehicle, especially for specialized components or if it requires expertise in both Porsche vehicles and rally modifications.
