5.4 How do I tell if the 924 I'm looking at is a 924 or a 924S?
If the car rolled out in ‘82 or before (in Europe, that would be ‘85 or before), it is certainly a 924. If it is a ‘86 or ‘87 car, it is certainly a 924S. The 10th digit of the VIN would tell of the year.
If it is a 924 you are considering, remember that the 924 and the 924S are very different cars underneath the skin. The 924 has a 2.0 liter engine, and is relatively inexpensive to maintain. On the other hand, the 924S came with the same 2.5 liter engine and drivetrain as the early 944, and consequently shares the same maintenance issues as an early 944 (or worries, if it is an ill-maintained specimen).
It may not be easy to tell a 924 from a 924S by a visual check, particularly since owners who are "creative" in changing the badges and decals on their cars are not unheard of.