1986 Porsche 944 review from North America

The front right strut is leaking and needs to be replaced.

The rear tires are old and starting to crack, and the brakes wore out rather quickly.

Also the hood release lever snapped, although I can still pop the hood by pulling the cable.

I used to own a 1985 Honda Accord, inherited from my grandparents, and finally decided I needed something with a little more speed, style, and class. I was looking mostly at early 90s Corvettes, however, when I saw the 1986 Porsche 944 online, I had to have it. The previous owner was a member of Porsche Club of America, and took very good care of it. The paint is original, everything in good shape. I will need to put about 1200 dollars into it soon, but I don't mind. The car handles beautifully. I live on the California coast, and taking this baby up and down the Pacific Coast Highway is a dream. There is not a lot of low end power, but once the RPMs get over 3500-4000 it really starts to pull. I am about 6'2" so it is a bit of squeeze getting into the car, but once I am in I have plenty of room. Now most people say this, but I will reiterate it; just because 944s are cheap to purchase, they are still a Porsche when it comes to repairing them. I know I would have to put money into it when I bought it, but was still surprised by how much. $1200 for new front struts, tires, and front brakes. I am not very mechanically inclined, and just getting all the fluids checked, changed, etc. cost me $80.00 at a local tire and brake service shop. However, when it all comes down to it, when I walk out of my house or out of work and see my Guard's Red Porsche waiting for me, and I get to unlock the doors and be the one to get in, and drive off, it is all worth it.