Description
Imagine slipping behind the wheel of a car that embodies Porsche’s pioneering spirit – that’s exactly what Rally Preparation Services is offering with this extraordinarily rare 1979 Porsche 924 Turbo.
When the 924 first appeared in 1976, it signalled a radical departure for Porsche. A front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout unthinkable at the time for the marque paired with a rear-mounted transaxle for near-perfect balance. That 48:52 weight distribution gave it the sort of poise that belied its modest power, and while the early cars were criticised for being a little light on grunt, the bones of greatness were undeniably there.
Then came the Turbo. Introduced in 1978, it added the essential punch a KKK turbocharger pushing output to 170bhp that transformed the 924 from a neatly-handling underdog into a genuinely exciting sports car. The chassis had always been willing; now it had the performance to match.
But this car goes far beyond showroom stats and spec sheets. What we have here is a meticulous, five-year recreation of a Porsche works rally car undertaken without compromise. No corners cut, no shortcuts taken. Just a single-minded pursuit of authenticity and excellence. So faithful is the build, in fact, that when it appeared at a Porsche concours in Switzerland, it fooled Jürgen Barth himself.
Yes, that Jürgen Barth. Le Mans winner, Porsche engineer, and the man who piloted the original 924 Turbo in the 1980 Monte Carlo Rally alongside Roland Kussmaul. So convinced was he that this was his original car, he paused, stared, and then smiled. What followed was a storybook moment: both Barth and Kussmaul not only gave the car their blessing, they stepped back into its bucket seats for a nostalgic return to the Monte Carlo Historique in 2017.
Between 2017 and 2019, this car tackled the Monte Carlo Historique three times with Barth and Kussmaul at the helm, finishing on each occasion and cementing its place in a uniquely personal corner of Porsche history. It’s worth reflecting that this is one of the few Porsches outside of the 911 lineage to achieve such revered status in historic motorsport. It’s a reminder that Porsche, even when venturing outside of tradition, has a knack for building brilliance.
First registered in September 1979, and brought into the UK by Rally Preparation Services in 2018, the car is fully documented with FIVA papers and HTP papers. Since then, it’s also competed in several smaller events across Europe and is eligible for future Monte Carlo Historique’s along with many other events.
There are rare cars. There are fast cars. There are historically significant cars. But very occasionally, a car comes along that combines all three wrapped in a body that’s as beautifully built as it is compelling to drive. This Porsche 924 Turbo isn’t just a window into the past. It’s an invitation to be part of it complete with a selection of spares, including a gearbox and turbo, ensuring its legacy continues on the road or in the hands of a true enthusiast.
The car is currently with Rally Preparation Services sister Company, the RPS storage facility and available for inspection. All viewings and test drives welcomed through direct contact with Rally Preparation Services.
All viewings and test drives welcomed by appointment at Rally Preparation Services.
All enquiries please contact us on using the button below or telephone +44(0)the details below
