Hi folks,
We have a'85 911 coupe and are now thinking of adding a 944 or 944s to the stable. I know nothing about either the 944 or 944S. I do see an '86 944 in my area an also a '89 944s. Are there any particular problems with either of these years? What in general do I need to look for then inspecting these?
Thanks

 

Maintenance records- find out then the timing tensioner/waterpump were changed. Clutch is a good one too.

 

Read this. Buy the best one you can find because even the best 944 is cheaper than a mediocre 911. (generally)

 

I am thinking the 89 is an S2 ??? Huge difference between S2 and NA...and also some significant differences (and similarity ) to just an "S".

Get an S2 if you can! I believe there are several maint. reasons why an S2 is a better car...although I might be biased!

 

If you have a decent eye for the mechanical, you'll do fine, they are both Porsches after all. There is always things to do on cars this old, maintainance the PO's neglected, and stuff that just wears out. Hopefully someone who has taking better care of the car gets the better price, but not always the case, as some PO's throw crap on them and expect you to pay for it. The timing belt service life is 45k, so proof of complete service including new water pump, bearings, seals, new oil cooler o rings, belts, etc., is worth something. Prorate the front of engine service from what it would cost you in time and money as a deduction from blue book, good to fair condition.

 

This is kind of OT, but how do you guys feel about the bigger 2.7L 8 valve motor? ive never been in one before, can you really feel how much stronger those 15 extra horses are under the hood?

But on the other hand, the S2 is a much better 944NA. i'm actually thinking i might move up one of these days and get one. ill do what most of these guys are saying, CHECK THE CAR OVER BEFORE YOU NEGOTIATE THE PRICE. when i bought my current 944, i found out what it was like to deal with all sorts of Maintence that was long over due.

 

A friend of mine has an '89 and he says it's just as slow as any other 944.

As far as power-to-weight ratios are concerned, 15hp is the equivalent of 150lbs. Can you really feel a difference when your skinny friend gets out of the car?

On the other hand, I've read the extra power in the S is noticeable, and the S2 puts a smile on one's face.