Porsche 924 Carrera GTS

vs

Aston Martin V8 Vantage

Germany vs United Kingdom — 1981 vs 1977

Porsche 924 Carrera GTS (1981)
Aston Martin V8 Vantage (1977)
Specifications
924 Carrera GTSV8 Vantage V8 Vantage
Horsepower245 hp375 hp
Torque217 lb-ft406 lb-ft
Engine Size1,984 cc5,340 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec5.3 sec
Top Speed155 mph170 mph
¼ Mile13.9 sec13.8 sec
Weight2,471 lbs3,990 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,616 mm
Length4,213 mm4,585 mm
Units Produced59534
Original MSRP$73,500$42,000
Value (Excellent)$1,200,000$550,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity10/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1977 Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Vantage emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS counters with lighter weight, greater rarity, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

When Germany engineering meets United Kingdom craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS and 1977 Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Vantage embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1977 Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Vantage holds a clear advantage in raw power with 375 hp compared to 245 hp, a 130-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 Aston Martin V8 Vantage relies on a 5.3L V8 with 5,340 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1977 Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Vantage edges ahead at 5.3 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. The Porsche 924 Carrera GTS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1519 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 59 units built, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS is considerably scarcer than the Aston Martin V8 Vantage's 534 examples. On the collector market, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS commands a significant premium over the 1977 Aston Martin V8 Vantage V8 Vantage, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.