Germany vs Germany — 1985 vs 1981
| Scirocco GTI 16V | 924 Carrera GTS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 139 hp | 245 hp |
| Torque | — | 217 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,781 cc | 1,984 cc |
| 0-60 mph | — | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | — | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | — | 13.9 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,471 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,400 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,195 mm | 4,213 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 59 |
| Original MSRP | — | $73,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $30,000 | $1,200,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1985 Volkswagen Scirocco GTI 16V brings better value to the table, and the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS answers with more power, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
In the world of Sports Car cars, few comparisons generate as much discussion as the 1985 Volkswagen Scirocco GTI 16V versus the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS. Both hail from Malaise era and represent the pinnacle of their respective manufacturers' ambitions. The 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 245 hp compared to 139 hp, a 106-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Volkswagen Scirocco uses a Inline-4 displacing 1,781 cc, while the Porsche 924 Carrera GTS relies on a Inline-4 SOHC Turbocharged 8V with 1,984 cc. On the collector market, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS commands a significant premium over the 1985 Volkswagen Scirocco GTI 16V, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1981 Porsche 924 Carrera GTS rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.