I'm considering a 1983 model 944. I haven't seen it, and will not have an opportunity for another few weeks when I get back, but to give me a headstart, what kind of mechanical issues should I be looking for ?

The advert says 90K miles and a new timing belt, but otherwise not much.

I've been a 911 guy since 1997, and as a member of PCA I am certainly familiar with the 944, although I have to say most of my buddies had modified 951's.

Any help or advice is appreciated..of yes of course an idea of what a good runner is worth would be helpful.

cheers

 

Water pump, clutch replacement? See how it takes curves, if you can drive it! Look at the engine bay if you can, see if it's clean, or if it looks neglected. Same with the interior. You don't want something that someone abused, because it gets expensive much quicker. Have someone who often works on 944s do the PPI!

 

Also check motor mounts and whether the A/C is fully functional.

 

I actually prefer the early 944s - has that more classic sports car look interior (and avoids a lot of the late 80's theme interiors). Plus they are the lightest 944s made outside of the few cup cars made.

 

Check to make sure the clutch master cylinder isn't ripping a hole in the firewall. This happens from time to time, I had a friend with this problem on his 83 944, happened around 130k for him. Just recently there was a posting on this topic as well.

 

My '83 had the exact same problem. There are 3 potential fixes for this using different methods of brackets to actually welding the firewall. That is a fatigue area and is more common than thought.

 

Clark's Garage A great primer for all things 944. Check out their FAQ, and Purchasing Sections.

They are fun cars, just note, they are momentum cars, and not very quick, especially compared to your previous Porsche's.

 

I like them as well. Unfortunately, they also have several weak points that were corrected as the series progressed, e.g. dash material prone to cracking, crummy VW wheel bearings, lousy water pump (can be updated, though), etc.

The MY 1983 is relatively rare in the U.S. as considerably less cars were imported than in 1984. Hope it's a nice one!