Germany vs Germany — 1980 vs 1981
| Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) | 924 Carrera GTS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 220 hp | 245 hp |
| Torque | 228 lb-ft | 217 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,226 cc | 1,984 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.9 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 143 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.3 sec | 13.9 sec |
| Weight | 2,976 lbs | 2,471 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,524 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,404 mm | 4,213 mm |
| Units Produced | 11,452 | 59 |
| Original MSRP | $35,950 | $73,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $150,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) 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.
The 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo) and 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS stand as two of the most notable Sports Car cars from Malaise era. Both emerged during a period of intense competition, and choosing between them remains a passionate debate among collectors. The 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 245 hp compared to 220 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Audi Quattro uses a Inline-5 Turbo 20V (RR) displacing 2,226 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 5.9 seconds. The Porsche 924 Carrera GTS carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 505 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 59 units built, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS is considerably scarcer than the Audi Quattro's 11,452 examples. On the collector market, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS commands a significant premium over the 1980 Audi Quattro Ur-Quattro (20V Turbo), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.