1981 Porsche 924 Turbo Safari

Location: Ashland, Oregon

Why It's Curated: This 1981 Porsche 924 Turbo is for sale in Ashland, Or. This Safari-trimmed 924 Turbo represents one of the most intriguing chapters in Porsche's off-road experimentation. The Safari package transformed the sports car into a capable adventure machine, and this example benefits from a comprehensive 2019 engine rebuild of its turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder. The BF Goodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 tires in LT215/75R15 size maintain the vehicle's dual-purpose character, while the recent short-throw shift kit enhances the driving experience. With fresh paint applied in 1995 and only minor cosmetic imperfections, this rare variant showcases Porsche's willingness to push boundaries. The combination of Safari rarity, recent mechanical attention, and rust-free Oregon provenance makes this an exceptional find for collectors seeking something truly different from Stuttgart's catalog.

Check out the pictures in the gallery & use the contact form to get in touch with us and the seller to ask questions and/or make an offer for this vehicle.

Model History: The Porsche 924 Turbo emerged in 1979 as Stuttgart's answer to the growing demand for forced-induction performance, transforming the naturally aspirated 924's modest output into genuine sports car territory. Built on Porsche's front-engine, rear-drive platform shared with Audi, the 924 Turbo featured a KKK turbocharger feeding the 2.0-liter inline-four, boosting power from 125 to 170 horsepower. The Safari variant represented Porsche's brief but fascinating foray into adventure-ready sports cars, featuring raised suspension, protective body cladding, and rally-inspired aesthetics that anticipated the modern crossover trend by decades. This factory-sanctioned transformation demonstrated Porsche's engineering versatility during a period when the company was exploring new market segments beyond traditional sports cars. The 924 Turbo's significance extends beyond its power figures to its role as a technological stepping stone toward the legendary 944 Turbo. Its sophisticated turbocharging system, complete with intercooler and wastegate, provided crucial development experience that would inform future Porsche forced-induction engines. Against contemporaries like the Datsun 280ZX Turbo and various European hot hatches, the 924 Turbo offered distinctly Porsche handling dynamics with practical daily usability. The Safari's elevated stance and rugged appointments created a unique niche that predated Porsche's modern Macan and Cayenne philosophy by three decades. Today, these Safari variants represent some of the rarest 924 derivatives, with their combination of turbo performance and off-road capability making them highly sought after by collectors who appreciate Porsche's willingness to experiment during this transitional era.

Vehicle Details:
Year: 1981
Make: Porsche
Model: 924 Turbo
Trim: Safari
Drive: Rear Wheel Drive
Miles: 57000
Mileage Verification: True Miles Unknown
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Transmission: Manual (3 pedals)
Number of Forward Gears: 5
Engine: 2019 fully rebuilt 2.0L inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine
Exterior Color: Red
Interior Color: Tan and brown partial leather interior
State of Registration: Oregon
Vehicle Location: ASHLAND, OR
VIN: Available Upon Request
Title: Clean

Details:

Drivetrain, Suspension, Tires & Brakes: 
Locking Differentials: 
Wheel Size and Offset: BF Goodrich All Terrain T/A KO2 tires
Tire Brand, Model, and Size: LT215/75R15

Exterior & Interior:
New Paint 1995

Working Heat: Yes 
Working Air Conditioning: Yes

Recent Maintenance:
Oil change 2024. New short throw shift kit.

Mechanical, Rust, Cosmetic Known Flaws:
minor scratches only, no rust