Italy vs Germany — 1982 vs 1981
| 037 Rally Stradale | 924 Carrera GTS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 205 hp | 245 hp |
| Torque | 166 lb-ft | 217 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,995 cc | 1,984 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.2 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 137 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.5 sec | 13.9 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,471 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,440 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 3,920 mm | 4,213 mm |
| Units Produced | 200 | 59 |
| Original MSRP | — | $73,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $700,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1982 Lancia 037 Rally Stradale offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between Italy and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1982 Lancia 037 Rally Stradale versus 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 245 hp compared to 205 hp, a 40-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Lancia 037 uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V Supercharged displacing 1,995 cc, while the Porsche 924 Carrera GTS relies on a Inline-4 SOHC Turbocharged 8V with 1,984 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 6.2 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 59 units built, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS is considerably scarcer than the Lancia 037's 200 examples. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.