Lot 221: 1977 Porsche 924 Martini

When in November 1975 Porsche launched the 924, it marked a radical departure for the company; not only did it have a front engine, it was also water rather than air-cooled. The 1,984cc four cylinders, single camshaft engine, producing 125bhp at 5,800rpm and 1221b.ft at 3,500rpm via Bosch injection, was mated to a four-speed transaxle. Beneath the 2+2 coupé body, the steel monocoque sported independent suspension, allowing excellent roadholding. In 1990 this car was purchased from a client of the renowned rally driver Roger Clark, who had a Porsche dealership in Narborough, Leicestershire, by one of his Porsche mechanics, Mr Glen White, who undertook to restore the car back to originality. Glen finished the body shell and then put the car into storage with a large supply of original Porsche parts as he was immigrating to America. The current vendor purchased the car in the year 2000 and completed the restoration in 2003. It has been modified with a 5 speed, 944 box which makes for a much improved drive. The engine is original along with all the upholstery. All transmission bearings have been renewed along with the transmission shaft which connects to the transaxle. The car has been used sparingly since restoration with a recorded milage of 33,115. The Porsche 924 Martini was one of only 100 cars imported into this country to promote the launch of the front engined 924 Porsches and is a significant within the history of Porsche. The Porsche 924 Martini also supports a Porsche Le-Mans victories plaque displayed on the console.