Porsche
Porsche's transaxle sports car (1982-1991). Affordable Porsche of its era. The 944 Turbo and Turbo S are particularly respected.
The Porsche 944 is a transaxle sports car produced from 1982 to 1991. The 944 was Porsche affordable sports car of the era, providing Porsche driving experience at significantly lower price than the 911. The transaxle layout (engine front, transmission rear) provided 50/50 weight distribution and balanced chassis dynamics. The 944 came in numerous variants: standard 944, 944 S (with newer engine), 944 Turbo (with turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder making 220-250 horsepower), 944 Turbo S (the focused performance variant), and 944 S2 (3.0-liter naturally aspirated). The 944 Turbo and Turbo S are the most desirable variants. Modern 944 prices have appreciated as the cars become recognized future classics. Project 944 cars are still relatively affordable; clean low-mile examples are commanding moderate premiums. The platform has built a small but devoted enthusiast community. On WhipJury, 944 submissions appear occasionally, particularly Turbo and Turbo S variants. Modified examples (with engine work, suspension upgrades) appear regularly.
Standard 944 (1982-1989). 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder.
944 Turbo (1985-1989). 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, 220-250 horsepower.
944 Turbo S (1988). Focused performance variant.
944 S2 (1989-1991). 3.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder.