I currently own a 1985 911 with an NA 3.2l motor and a 1995 Acura Integra also with an NA motor. I am strongly considering dumping the Integra and picking up a 944 Turbo as a daily driver. My question is what type of reliability issues will I run into with a turbo motor and can anyone weigh in with general comments about the 944 Turbo both pros and cons of owning these cars. I have a good local shop who works on my 911 who will do a pre-purchase inspection on any car I consider. Thanks.

 

Really, you just need to keep up on the balance shaft mainanance.

 

Nate,

If you get a good car with lower mileage, or one that has been maintained and has had major repairs/maintenance already completed (clutch, timing belt), you should be able to use the 951 (944 turbo) as a daily driver. I purchased mine 4 years ago with 48K miles for 9300. I've put 75k miles with the following repairs:

ball joints $300
2 timing belts $1200 ea - much cheaper if you do it yourself
front rotors 140
front pads 60
motor mounts 300?

And finally the clutch just let out. That hurt, at $2500.

As for pros/cons:
Pros:
Great fun to drive (even in traffic)
Very functional - the hatch holds a LOT of stuff (I've had 2 bikes, extra wheels, and a bunch of gear in there, and I've used the car to move a couple of times!)
Car is easily upgradeable

Cons:
Um, I'm not a good source for these. Let's see...

Not really a four seater
No cupholders (although the nooks by the side of the seat work pretty good)
Easy to go ridiculously fast very quickly

Good luck on your decision/search.