1986 Porsche 944 Turbo review from North America
"Rev to 3500rpm, catch a gear and BANG!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Clutch and stud sensors failed.
AC compressor ceased.
Exhaust corroded.
Headlight motor died.
Spark plug wires cracked/arced.
Heater valve failed.
Side view mirror glass fell off.
Various turbo/interc-ooler hoses failed.
O2 sensor failed.
Fuel pressure regulator failed.
Shocks lost damping ability.
Hatch glass separated from frame.
Glove box plastic stops broke.
Sunroof mounting plastic parts broke.
Dash cracked.
Heater clip broke.
Center console plastic hinge tore.
Cloth on seats pretty much disintegrated.
Given the age of the car, most of the above can be expected as 'normal' wear and tear for a 944 turbo.
I've fixed all but the glove box, hatch, heater clip to date and am currently ordering parts for the sunroof.
My exhaust has a rattle, so at some point, I'll need to get it in the air and find out where it vibrates.
Also, the hatch repair is a monster job, but I'll get started when my daily driver is out of the shop!
General comments?
TONS of fun!
Improvements that have transformed the car are as follows:
1. New exhaust, boost enhancer, chips (added 60-70 horsepower, much different car) ($400)
2. 250 lb springs ($150) to replace stock 160 lb springs and Koni sport yellow adjustable shocks and new bushings all around.
The first one is "Wow! WHAT a difference!" but, the second one is "Holy s***!"
Given the 2 mods above, I have no desire to get another sports car. Perhaps a larger turbo and MAF are in the future (Another 100 horsepower or so, but is around $4K before installation)
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| 1986 - 944 Normally Aspirated 2.7 liter Definitely the best buy for a fun, fast beautiful car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1986 |
| Year of manufacture | 1985 |
| First year of ownership | 1992 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.5L inline 4 cylinder turbo Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 1 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 3 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 62000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 134000 miles |
| Previous car | Datsun King Cab |
| Date of Entry | 19th January, 2009 |