Porsche 924 Carrera GTS

vs

Ferrari 328

Germany vs Italy — 1981 vs 1985

Porsche 924 Carrera GTS (1981)
Ferrari 328 (1985)
Specifications
924 Carrera GTS328 GTB/GTS
Horsepower245 hp270 hp
Torque217 lb-ft224 lb-ft
Engine Size1,984 cc3,186 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec5.5 sec
Top Speed155 mph163 mph
¼ Mile13.9 sec13.8 sec
Weight2,471 lbs2,784 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,350 mm
Length4,213 mm4,255 mm
Units Produced597,412
Original MSRP$73,500$58,500
Value (Excellent)$1,200,000$200,000
Collectibility10/107/10
Rarity10/104/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS brings lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility to the table, and the 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB/GTS answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

The rivalry between Germany and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS versus 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB/GTS is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB/GTS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 270 hp compared to 245 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 924 Carrera GTS uses a Inline-4 SOHC Turbocharged 8V displacing 1,984 cc, while the Ferrari 328 relies on a V8 DOHC 32V with 3,186 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB/GTS edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. The Porsche 924 Carrera GTS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 313 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 59 units built, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS is considerably scarcer than the Ferrari 328's 7,412 examples. On the collector market, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS commands a significant premium over the 1985 Ferrari 328 GTB/GTS, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.