The Porsche 944, a transaxle sports car produced from 1982 to 1991, remains a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking an affordable and engaging classic. However, not all 944 models are created equal. This guide will help you navigate the various model years, highlighting the best options and the ones you might want to avoid, ensuring you make an informed decision when purchasing your own piece of Porsche history.
Porsche 944 Model Year Overview
| Model Year | Key Features & Improvements | Potential Issues & Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| 1983-1985.1 944 (Early) | Simple interior, cable-actuated clutch, narrow body, 143 hp 2.5L engine. | Early interiors can show wear, prone to DME relay failure, less refined engine. |
| 1985.2-1989 944 (Late) | Revised interior, hydraulic clutch, wider body (from 1987), improved suspension, 150 hp (85.2-86) or 160 hp (87-89) 2.5L engine. | More complex electronics, potential for higher maintenance costs due to age, early models may have some teething issues with updates. |
| 1985-1988 944 Turbo (951) | Turbocharged 2.5L engine (220 hp), stronger transmission, upgraded brakes, stiffer suspension. | Turbocharger maintenance and potential failure, more complex engine management, higher purchase price and running costs. |
| 1989 944 Turbo S | Turbocharged 2.5L engine (250 hp), Club Sport suspension, ABS standard, limited slip differential. | Expensive to maintain, potential for abuse due to performance focus, harder to find in good condition. |
| 1987-1991 944 S | 16-valve 2.5L engine (160 hp), improved performance over base model. | More complex engine than the base 944, potential for valve train issues if not properly maintained. |
| 1989-1991 944 S2 | 3.0L 16-valve engine (208 hp), improved torque and performance. | Potential for cylinder head cracking (relatively rare), more expensive parts than 2.5L models. |
| 1991 944 Turbo Cabriolet | Turbocharged 2.5L engine (250 hp), convertible top, limited production run. | Expensive to maintain, potential for abuse due to performance focus, convertible top maintenance, very rare and expensive. |
| 1988 944 Turbo S Silver Rose | Turbocharged 2.5L engine (250 hp), Silver Rose paint, Burgundy interior, limited edition. | Expensive to maintain, potential for abuse due to performance focus, harder to find in good condition and original condition. |
Detailed Explanations
1983-1985.1 944 (Early): These are the earliest 944 models, easily identifiable by their simpler interior and cable-actuated clutch. The 2.5-liter engine produced 143 horsepower. While these models are the most affordable, they lack some of the refinements found in later versions. Their simplicity can be an advantage for DIY mechanics, but be prepared for potentially worn interiors and the need for regular maintenance.
1985.2-1989 944 (Late): The mid-1985 update (often referred to as 1985.5) brought significant improvements, including a revised interior, hydraulic clutch, and improved suspension. From 1987 onwards, the 944 also received the wider body of the Turbo model. The engine output increased to 150 hp initially and then to 160 hp in 1987. These are generally considered more desirable than the early models due to their increased refinement and improved driving experience.
1985-1988 944 Turbo (951): The 944 Turbo, known internally as the 951, offered a significant performance boost thanks to its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 220 horsepower. It also featured a stronger transmission, upgraded brakes, and a stiffer suspension. These cars are more complex and require more specialized maintenance, but the performance is rewarding. Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history, especially regarding the turbocharger.
1989 944 Turbo S: The 1989 Turbo S represents the pinnacle of 944 Turbo performance. With a 250 horsepower version of the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, Club Sport suspension, standard ABS, and a limited-slip differential, it's a true performance machine. Due to their performance potential, these cars may have been abused, so a thorough inspection is crucial. They are also relatively rare and command a premium price.
1987-1991 944 S: The 944 S featured a 16-valve version of the 2.5-liter engine, boosting output to 160 horsepower. This provided a noticeable improvement in performance over the base 944. While not as powerful as the Turbo, the S offered a good balance of performance and reliability. Pay close attention to the valve train when inspecting these models.
1989-1991 944 S2: The 944 S2 was a significant upgrade, featuring a 3.0-liter 16-valve engine producing 208 horsepower. This larger engine provided improved torque and overall performance, making it a very desirable model. The S2's larger engine and overall refinement make it a very appealing choice for those seeking a well-rounded 944 experience.
1991 944 Turbo Cabriolet: This model combined the performance of the Turbo with the open-air experience of a convertible. It was only produced in 1991, making it a rare and highly sought-after 944 variant. Expect to pay a premium for these cars, and be prepared for the additional maintenance associated with a convertible top.
1988 944 Turbo S Silver Rose: The 1988 944 Turbo S Silver Rose is a limited edition model featuring a unique Silver Rose paint job and Burgundy interior. It shares the same performance specifications as the standard 1988 Turbo S. These cars are highly collectible and command a premium due to their rarity and distinctive appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which 944 model is the most reliable? The later (1985.2-1989) base 944 models are generally considered the most reliable due to their improved design and relatively simple mechanics compared to the Turbo or S models.
What are the common problems with the Porsche 944? Common problems include DME relay failure, cracked dashboards, worn suspension components, and oil leaks, especially on higher mileage examples.
How much does it cost to maintain a Porsche 944? Maintenance costs can vary greatly depending on the model and condition, but expect to spend at least $1,000-$2,000 per year on routine maintenance and repairs. Turbo models will generally be more expensive to maintain.
Is the 944 a good investment? Well-maintained 944s, especially Turbo and S2 models, are appreciating in value, making them potentially good investments, but purchasing one solely as an investment is not advisable.
Which 944 should I avoid? While all 944s can be great cars, be wary of neglected examples with poor maintenance history, especially Turbos with signs of abuse or deferred maintenance.
Conclusion
Choosing the best year for a Porsche 944 depends on your budget, performance preferences, and tolerance for maintenance. The later base models offer a good balance of affordability and reliability, while the Turbo and S2 models provide enhanced performance. Regardless of the model you choose, a thorough inspection and documented service history are crucial to ensuring a rewarding ownership experience.