924Board.org

[wblank99]

I am a novice to the 924 Porsche and this board so please excuse my ignorance. I am hoping someone

can answer some questions. I have read the info on production #'s and engine codes via links from this

board. I have gathered that the 1980 924 had more than one transmission type. I would like to know if the

1980 had any significant differences, pro or con, to the 1977? It appears that the 1980 engine is the same

basic engine as the 1977. I have seen references to two different 5 speed transmissions. Which

transmission is the most durable? Which car is the "easiest" to maintain (such as clutch

replacement---obviously a big job). Did most 1980's have a 5 speed? I know that I need to order some

books, which I will do if I buy a 924. Right now I don't have the time to wait on books because there are 2

924's for sale in the area and I need to make a decision soon.I am not usually this ignorant about a car and

the variations. If it wasn't for 924.org I would bee even more ignorant. I don't even know where to look for

the engine code. I saw a reference to near the battery compartment. Most american car mechanics seem

terrified, or wince at, the 924. Why? Is this not a reliable, well handling car? I don't expect someone to take

the time of giving me a detailed history of the 924. That is the kind of research that I should do. I would

appreciate any advice on books, GOOD manuals, and parts suppliers. Was the 1977 a "better" car than

the 1980? Help please! Any advice or input would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.

[Pat]

Check the Technical, but in my experience the Porsche gearbox is easier to remove or move to change the clutch but is harder to find parts for and wears out quicker than the Audi gearbox. Also the other car for sale in your area is a '77? If so it came from the factory with a four speed unless a previous owner did a swap.For Engines, yes its the same basic block but if you live in the US or Canada the '77 had 95 HP while the '80 pumped out a mind blowing 115 HP ( if you live in europe it was 125 HP all the way to '86? when they killed the Audi engined 924 ). American car mechanis wince at it because its CIS fuel injected and 2L, if kept in relatively good condition it's a reliable 20 yr old car but it will need more attention than simply beause its getting old.
Manuals: you should get should be the Haynes manual (but dont trust it implicatly) Chiltons or the factory manual.

[924RACR]

Yeah, I'd go for the 80, definitely; should have a 5-speed, while the 77 will very likely have the 4-speed, a better cam for more power, and other refinements. Porsche has the distinction of a heritage of continuous refinement under a skin which does not need to change every year. Whereas every year of an American car looks different, and often the earlier models are better than later models, the newest Porsche is almost always the best.

There's also a far better chance the 80 has the 5-lug 4-wheel vented disc brakes, vs. the solid front disc/drum rear the 77 most likely has.

I'm trying to remember what else... power mirrors and windows are more likely... some details to chassis structure... possible rear wiper, and other such options, all speak for getting the '80...

_________________
Vaughan Scott
Webmeister
'79 924 #77 SCCA H Prod racecar
'82 931 Plat. Silver
#25 Hidari Firefly P2 sports prototype

[wblank99]

Thanks everyone for the info and opinions. I've been looking thru the Technical section and found it is a WEALTH of information.

[eturbo924]

Go fot the 80 if they are in comparible conditions. The newer car will have the benefits of all that Porsche learned in the couple years of production between the two. There are always small improvements that the customer does not hear about. Tighter tollerances and assembly techniques. Also as noted the 80 has a better cam and also has better ignition. It should have hall-effect triger and O2 system not points and air pump.

The 80 also has fully galvinized body. I believe the 77 might not. Not sure though. Some one here will correct me I am sure.

Oh I also like the interior a bit more on the 80 plus models. The steering wheel is better and the turn signals plus wiper controls are better... not out of the Rabit like the older ones.

Eri

[larso]

The porsche/getrag trannies are better for the car's handling because there is more mid weight and less rear. They are also easier to get out when you are doing a tranny job, since you have much more space. But they are bad for synchro wear, and the bushings are in a terrible place to get at...and the bushings are guaranteed to wear out over years.

The Audi tranny is a better choice in my opinion after looking over all the downs and ups.

For racing the getrag would be first choice, because of handling and second gear being a priority position on the shift pattern.