Chapel

my friend is looking to buy a 944
here is what we have found:
http://www.classifieds2000.com/cgi-c...561+Q357795034
http://www.classifieds2000.com/cgi-c...737+Q357795034
http://www.classifieds2000.com/cgi-c...253+Q357795034
http://www.classifieds2000.com/cgi-c...900+Q357795034
http://www.classifieds2000.com/cgi-c...146+Q357795034
http://www.classifieds2000.com/cgi-c...837+Q357795034


now they really vary in price and year
he kinda wants a non-turbo to save money
and the cheaper the better for him
but what kind of pitfalls do the early years have
and where can we find performance parts online?

Michael Stephenson

To find parts go to:
Rennlist Porsche Sponsors

I have not had bad luck with anybody I have used. I know these guys have 944 stuff: Paragon, Pelican, Ian's Eurosports, and Zim's.

I do not think that you are going to find much you can do from a horsepower stand point for an N/A car, except the suspension. You can do tons with a Turbo.

If performance is really important, get a Turbo. They are faster, have better suspensions, and better brakes. If you want to play hard, you will find that good brakes a really, really important.

For the N/A cars, there was a change in the suspension and the interior dash around 85.5. The dash is a matter of personal preference.

Cheaper can cost more in the long run. Have the car checked by a Porsche mechanic to make sure the car has been cared for - I have seen what happens to an unloved 951 and it ain't pretty.

A few of the hot items: Timing belt and rollers (need to be changed every 30K), waterpump, A-Arms (front suspension), shocks & struts, AC, steering rack, clutch, and brakes. Although the Porsche brakes are great, I have driven several (including a 968) that would not stop well in an emergency situation.

Best of luck.

rpm's S2

This is important - do not purchase a car without a thorough inspection by a Porsche mechanic who knows 944s. This $100 expense can save you thousands of dollars. Your local PCA region probably has someone who can recommend a mechanic if you do not know one. PCA regional contacts are available on their web site.

In addition to those mentioned Automobile Atlanta also is a good source for parts and has their entire 944 parts catalog available on CD ROM

Tabor

IMHO: The cheapest to maintain will be an 8-valve NA (non-turbo) that is at least a 1985.5. Porsche put a simpler (more advanced) engine control system in in 1985.5.

The wheel offset changed in 1987, so if you want to be able to put on late wheels, you will need 1987- suspension.

Chapel

hmm
Ill have someone look at it for him
what are the main looking points to check it out?

rpm's S2

Check out this site for the best discussion of purchasing a 944 I have found. Printing out the options list is a good idea as well.
944 FAQ

Mike S.

Chapel, Ralph's link is very important to check out. It takes you to Chapter 5 of a larger document on 924/944/968 FAQ. Make sure you hit the green uparrow at the end of chapter 5 to see what else is available. There's a lot of good nuggets of info in the rest of the chapters for a first time buyer. Good luck.

Mike

Chapel

I sent it to him
hope he takes heed
if I were him, Id get the Turbo
and just up the suspension and be happy.
hell, I drive a Rabbit GTi... Im happy with the speed I get
Ill be happier with the 2.0 bottom end and the carbs when they are but on and tuned correctly... but for now its fine

Dave

That first link (Gullwing Motors) has been advertised for at Least 4 or 5 months, If it hasn't sold yet there MAY be a good reason. A turbo is well worth the extra cost if your friend can swing it, but also figure on much costlier maintanence. (It's a shame when a 944 or 951 is neglected, it's not like there will ever be any more then there are now)Of course, he'll need a turbo to keep up with a 1900 lb. 2.0 VW.