Value of a Porsche 944?

Question

I'm thinking about buying a Porsche 944. It's a 1987, no turbo 2.5L engine, seems like it has a few defects, but the only thing that seems major is the power steering system is shot. I already have quotes on what it will cost to get it into working shape, but I'm looking for an answer from a Porsche enthusiast. I am wondering if this car is going to be cool looking, but is that all I'm going to be able to do with it, because it will be in the shop all of the time? How easy is it to get parts for this car? How easy is it to work on, how expensive is it to have worked on. Any info is helpful. I already looked at Kelly Blue Book, and NADA values for the car, but what is a good deal for the car in your opinion? Thanks.

Answer 1

First off, despite what many people seem to say, there are no VW parts used on the 944. The 944 was an evolution of sorts from the 924, which used many Audi parts - most notably the engine. The 944 was introduced a few years on with changed body work, and a new Porsche engine that was literally one half of the V8 used in the 928.

The 944 is an exceptionally well balanced car. It handles well, brakes well, and each version that came out tended to get a little faster. However none of the nomrally asperated versions are exactly "fast." They can make good track cars and move very well, but they must be skillfully driven to preserve the momentum and leverage the car's other strengths.

The car is more modern than a similar year 911, and I think they look good, but how good they look is ultimately a personal opinion and what matters is how good you think it looks.

Car value and pricing on a late '80s 944 can be pretty wide depending on the specific car, it's conditions, and any options or upgrades it may have had. As a baseline, perhaps $2500-3500 could be considered for average. More for low milage, excellent condition... less as issues start to add up. It's worth paying more for a car with the options you want and in good condition than trying to find a lesser example for less money as even though these are now priced quite low, repairs can be expensive.

These cars originally sold for $30k+, and parts costs tend to reflect that. Likewise, a skilled Porsche mechanic can be expensive. The car is relatively easy to work on, though even if you are well skilled, there are still probably some issues you will want to turn over to a professional. Parts are readily available and there are great support systems in the enthusiast community (be it on-line sources like Pelican Parts BBS and Rennlist, or more traditional like local chapters of PCA).

Answer 2

The 1987 Porsche 944 comes with a key that is a Volkswagon key. It is an over priced volkswagon.
I love them, however. It's going to have a four cylinder engine that is almost like a similar engine from a GTI.
Apart from the looks and the layout, you'd get more joy from a GTI from the same period of time. I don't know what area of the country you are in but the general Louisville/Indianapolis area has a glut of wrecked and parts cars for your interest. It seems these cars were interesting there in the same time period.

Answer 3

paul is spot on about the 944.

Just a note though: The 944s are inexpensive to buy, and if you keep it off the track, pretty reliable for a 20 year old car, BUT, it is still a P car, so repairs and parts will not be cheap.

and theyre seriously impressive cars on a race track with a good driver, considering the power output.


But if it were me, i would spend the bit more upfront and get the turbo model. Much more enjoyable day to day.