In 1986 the 924S was released. Porsche realised with the 944’s prices increasing with new standard features and options, they were losing their place as Porsches entry level market. While the 924 had always been available in other markets, Porsche decided to reintroduce the 924 to the American market with an initial price under 20,000. The 924S had an old spec 944 engine producing 150bhp and drive train but with a normal slim 924 body. It also retained the original 924's minimal, VW derived interior.
In 1987 the 924S Le Mans (or Special Edition) was made available in limited numbers with a 944 spec 163bhp engine, up-rated suspension and cosmetically upgraded interior and exterior. This special 924 had manual windows, no sunroof, and no air conditioning to save weight, although you could order one with air conditioning.
In 1988, the final year of production for the 924S, the power for all models was brought up to 163bhp. This made the 924S faster than the base 944 due to its lighter weight and more aerodynamic body. Due to unfavourable exchange rates in the late eighties, Porsche decided to focus on upmarket models. They dropped the 924S for the 1989 model year, and stopped producing the base 944 later that same year.
