The 944 and 924 models from Stuttgart were meant to signal a shift away from the weary but tried-and-tested 911 shape but almost half a century down the line it seems to have become one of the less desirable cars from the German automaker. This means they can be picked up for cheap and modified to specific tastes which is why the Vagabund’s Porsche 944 Safari conversion exists. 

The Austrian company provides services for prospective thrill seekers that convert the models into a Vagabund Porsche 944 Safari which makes them rally-ready. All work is carried out in their Graz workshop located in Austria which means customers need to ship their donor car all the way to the central European nation before any of the conversion can go ahead. 

The full package includes a 40mm suspension raise with new spring plates and rear shocks while 205/70/R15 Maxxis Trepador or Bridgestone Dueler A/T tires wrap original wheels which Vagabund powder coats in black or gold while rubber mud flaps complete the off-road capable aesthetic. A full-sized spare wheel also accompanies the build which can mount on the roof rack.

Since the build doesn’t simply raise the suspension and replace road tyres with knobbly ones, Vagabund also fits a bank of front lights using four HELLA Rallye 1000 or Comet 500 lamps making the model look as period correct as a rally car from the 80’s could ever be. UV-resistant stickers subtly line the extremities of the car in addition to the roof frame and lights. 

Not much has changed on the inside other than a short shifter and a Vegabund horn button mounted on the steering wheel.

Other selectable items offered in this Safari build include a hydraulic handbrake, studded tyres for snowy terrain, an aluminium skid plate to protect the mechanical bits, a limited slip differential, stainless steel exhaust system and a coilover suspension upgrade. 

Vagabund offers the Safari conversion for the Porsche 944 and 924 from the 1975 to 1991 model years and the price for all of the upgrades is €9,900 or approximately R170 000 depending on the exchange rate. Who needs to fork out a fortune for a Porsche 911 Safari or a mundane modern SUV afterall ? 

CAPE TOWN OFFICE 36 Old Mill Road, Ndabeni, Maitland, 7405 Western Cape Telephone: (021) 530 3300 Fax: (021) 530 3333

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