Porsche 924 Carrera GTS

vs

Porsche 935

Germany vs Germany — 1981 vs 1978

Porsche 924 Carrera GTS (1981)
Porsche 935 (1978)
Specifications
924 Carrera GTS935 Turbo
Horsepower245 hp750 hp
Torque217 lb-ft590 lb-ft
Engine Size1,984 cc3,211 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec2.8 sec
Top Speed155 mph221 mph
¼ Mile13.9 sec10.2 sec
Weight2,471 lbs2,260 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,272 mm
Length4,213 mm4,625 mm
Units Produced5913
Original MSRP$73,500
Value (Excellent)$1,200,000$6,000,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity10/1010/10
The Verdict

The 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS counters with better value, 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

Within the Porsche stable, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS and 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Porsche badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 750 hp compared to 245 hp, a 505-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 Porsche 935 relies on a Flat-6 Turbocharged with 3,211 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo edges ahead at 2.8 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. The Porsche 935 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 211 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 13 units built, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 924 Carrera GTS's 59 examples. On the collector market, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo commands a significant premium over the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.