YOU MIGHT ALSO CONSIDER...

Classics Monthly editor Simon Goldsworthy and Lancaster Insurance’s Car Clubs Manager Dave Youngs are allowed just one car each that they would recommend as a Porsche 924 rival

Simon Goldsworthy – VW Scirocco

The first- generation Volkswagen Scirocco is the purest of the bunch, but I’m suggesting the second generation today. Produced from 1981-1992, it was built for VW by Karmann on Golf running gear. Engine options ranged from 1497cc to 1781cc, so not as many ccs as the Porsche and inevitably performance is not going to be in the same league as a 924S or 924 Turbo, but find a 1.8 GTI and you are still looking at 112bhp and a 120mph top speed. It is front-wheel drive of course and that will be unacceptable to some prospective Porsche owners, but the Scirocco is still a sweet- handling car with a slippery profile and a capacious load bay.

Dave Youngs – Mazda RX7

I’m a big fan of the 924 and have owned two of them, but if you are looking for an alternative (and RWD Simon!) then how about the Mazda RX7? The twin-rotor Wankel engine under its bonnet is smooth, powerful and technically fascinating. Mazda made the rotary design reliable too, though it can get a little thirsty. The first- generation cars are lovely and delicate, but the second generation from 1985-1992 was heavily influenced by the Porsche 924 and has a similar appeal, being more of a sports tourer than an out-andout sports car. There was a turbo option though, and even a convertible version from 1988-1991.