Porsche 944 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Porsche 944

Introduced in 1981 as the direct successor to the 924, the Porsche 944 aimed to restore brand purity by featuring an engine developed entirely in-house, addressing criticism of its predecessor’s Volkswagen-sourced powerplant. The 944’s 2.5-litre four-cylinder featured a 50:50 weight-balanced transaxle layout, providing exceptional handling. Zink-coated bodywork helped combat the rust issues seen in earlier models. Over its decade-long run, the 944 evolved in power, comfort, and standard equipment, culminating in the celebrated S2 and Turbo models. By the end of its production in 1991, over 163,000 units had been built, marking a new milestone for Porsche.

Model Lineage and Key Versions

The 944 was created to replace the 924, featuring Porsche’s first in-house four-cylinder since the 356. Early models (1982–1985) featured the naturally aspirated 2.5 L engine, upgraded in subsequent years with power and technical enhancements. The Turbo (internally known as 951) arrived in 1985, elevating performance to new heights. The 944 S offered a 16-valve head, while the S2 (from 1988) ran a 3.0 L engine—the largest four-cylinder in series production at the time. Cabriolet versions of the S2 and Turbo appeared towards the end of the production run. In 1991, the 944 was succeeded by the 968, which built on the 944’s transaxle layout and engineering improvements.

Highlights and Market Presence

Key features include a front-mounted, in-house-developed four-cylinder engine, transaxle architecture for perfect weight distribution, galvanised bodywork, and a practical yet sporty 2+2 configuration. Turbo and S2 models offer outstanding performance rivaling contemporary competitors. Standard equipment was generous for the class, with options including ABS, air conditioning, premium interiors, sports suspension packages, and unique alloy wheels, such as Fuchs or Tele-Dial designs.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collector Models

Numerous variants and limited editions enrich the 944's legacy. Notable examples include the 944 Turbo S (‘Silver Rose’ with 250 HP, limited to 1,635 cars in 1988), the 944 S2 Cabriolet (only about 3,900 units), and the rare 944 Turbo Cabriolet (produced only in 1991, just 528 units). Motorsport specials such as the Turbo Cup for racing, special paintwork options like Rubystone and Silver Rose, and Club Sport or M030-equipped models with enhanced suspensions and brakes cater to enthusiasts. Commemorative editions, like the Celebration Edition marking the 100,000th example, present added appeal for collectors.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Buyers should pay attention to regular cambelt, tensioner, and water pump replacements—these are crucial given the interference engine design. Worn suspension bushings, clutch, and transaxle mounts can result in drivability issues. Electrical faults occasionally affect the pop-up headlights and dashboard instruments. While galvanised body panels drastically reduce rust problems compared to predecessors, neglected cars may still present corrosion in wheel arches or sills. Interior wear, especially on bolsters and dashboards, is age-dependent. Diligent maintenance and evidence of specialist servicing are significant for long-term reliability.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

Base models feature a naturally aspirated 2.5 L engine with around 150–163 HP, achieving 0–100 km/h in about 8.4 seconds and topping out at 220 km/h. The Turbo (220 HP, later 250 HP in the Turbo S) slashes that time to 5.7 seconds, capable of 260 km/h. The S2, with its 211 HP 3.0 L unit, provides smooth power and strong mid-range torque—0–100 km/h in 7.1 seconds, 240 km/h top speed. All models employed rear-wheel drive and a rear-mounted transaxle for near-perfect weight distribution, fostering crisp, predictable handling. Many buyers sought out sportier options like limited-slip differentials (Option M220) or M030 sports suspension for improved track performance. - 944 (2.5 L): All-rounder, balanced performance and efficiency

• 944 Turbo/951: Robust performance, significant power upgrade for track and road
• 944 S2: Largest four-cylinder series production engine at the time, blend of daily usability and pace
• 944 Turbo S: Most powerful, offering true high performance and rarity
• S2 Cabriolet/Turbo Cabriolet: Open-top driving with classic transaxle dynamics

Interior, Comfort and Exterior Design

Anatole Lapine’s design for the 944 drew heavily from the 924, while integrating distinctive, flared wheel arches and a more aggressive stance. Coupé and cabriolet bodies both offer practical hatchback loading. Interior updates through 1985 included dashboards, door panels, and improved ergonomics. Options ranged from full or part-leather upholstery to heated and height-adjustable sports seats, premium sound packages (often by Blaupunkt), air conditioning, and full electrics (windows, mirrors, sunroof). Iconic Tele-Dial, Fuchs, and Cup alloys set the series apart visually. Wide-ranging exterior colours, including special editions and metallic paints, complemented tailored interiors in black, burgundy, grey, and blue. The S2 Cabriolet’s electric roof combined open air driving with all the dynamism of the coupe.

Other Noteworthy Features

The 944’s practical 2+2 layout and surprisingly large boot set it apart from most period sports cars. Factory options included cruise control, alarm system, fog lights, headlamp washers, and advanced trip computers. Later-model safety features included ABS brakes and dual front airbags. Reversible rear bench, folding backrest, and special centre console arrangements offered versatility. A range of original documentation—manuals, service books—still accompanies the best-preserved collector cars.

Summary

The Porsche 944 remains a high point in Porsche’s transaxle era—combining precise weight distribution for standout handling, robust engineering, and versatile usability. With models spanning from reliable daily classic to high-performance Turbo or rare Cabriolet, the 944 appeals to purists and practical enthusiasts alike. Demand and supply figures place the 944 among the most significant classic Porsches, with enduring interest in each variant—a testament to its sustained appeal among automotive enthusiasts.