Motor Werks Racing unveils the Porsche 924 GTP “Spirit of America” tribute
Porsche 924 GTP (carbuzz.com)
A unique blend of Porsche 944 chassis and Audi TT engine power.
Motor Werks Racing, based in Georgia, has brought a unique and exciting offering to the world of sports car enthusiasts. Their latest creation is the Porsche 924 GTP “Spirit of America” Tribute, which draws inspiration from the classic 924 GTP that once graced the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the 1980s. This distinctive build showcases the blending of a Porsche 944 chassis and the powerhouse of an Audi TT engine.
The “Heritage Tribute Collection” by Motor Werks Racing includes the #16 build, where this 924 GTP Tribute takes center stage. The car pays homage to the Le Mans racer with a striking white base paint adorned with the iconic red and yellow decals, sponsor badges, and the American flag, capturing the spirit of the original.
What sets this tribute apart is the heart beneath the hood. Instead of a traditional Porsche powerplant, it features a 1.8-liter Audi turbocharged 20V engine, sourced from the Audi TT. This powerplant boasts impressive figures, churning out 385 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. To harness this power effectively, Motor Werks Racing has equipped the car with a Porsche 986 gearbox, their custom axles, and specialized cables.
The engine also benefits from high-performance upgrades, including IE forged connecting rods, ARP main and head studs, and High-Performance Race Cams with a billet adjustable cam gear. For efficient cooling during intense track sessions, the car features a three-inch inlet/outlet air-to-air intercooler. Remarkably, the engine can rev up to a claimed 8,500 rpm, delivering an exhilarating driving experience.
Underpinning this tribute is the chassis of a 1986 Porsche 944, which provides a solid foundation for performance and handling. The car comes equipped with a six-point roll cage, removable GTP composite quarter flares, and a GTP rear spoiler with extensions. Thanks to its lightweight construction, the car tips the scales at just 2,025 lbs, making it approximately 300 lbs lighter than a modern-day Mazda MX-5 Miata.
The tribute’s specs include Moton suspension remote reservoir shocks, custom MWR Delrin bushings, box-welded shock towers with billet camber plates, MWR two-piece adjustable control arms, 944 Turbo four-piston brake calipers, and 18-inch wheels fitted with Hoosier R7 tires (255/35 front and 295/30 rear) for exceptional grip and performance.
Motor Werks Racing is offering the Porsche 924 GTP “Spirit of America” Tribute at a price of $78,000, placing it in a similar price range as the Porsche 718 Cayman S, which serves as a spiritual successor to the classic 924 and 944 nameplates. This unique tribute car offers a thrilling blend of Porsche heritage and modern performance, making it a captivating option for sports car enthusiasts.
