France vs Germany — 1980 vs 1981
| Murena 2.2 | 924 Carrera GTS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 118 hp | 245 hp |
| Torque | 129 lb-ft | 217 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,156 cc | 1,984 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.5 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.0 sec | 13.9 sec |
| Weight | 2,425 lbs | 2,471 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,470 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,320 mm | 4,213 mm |
| Units Produced | 10,680 | 59 |
| Original MSRP | — | $73,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 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 Matra Murena 2.2 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.
When France engineering meets Germany craftsmanship, the result is one of the most compelling matchups in the classic car world. The 1980 Matra Murena 2.2 and 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS embody their respective national automotive traditions while competing in the same arena. The 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 245 hp compared to 118 hp, a 127-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Matra Murena uses a Inline-4 OHV displacing 2,156 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 9.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 59 units built, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS is considerably scarcer than the Matra Murena's 10,680 examples. On the collector market, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS commands a significant premium over the 1980 Matra Murena 2.2, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.