Faults:
About 200 miles after I purchased the car, the rubber center clutch blew and had to be replaced. The total cost was $1500, $700 parts and $800 labor. This made the deal I got on the car not seem so good.
When my car gets wet underneath, the anti-theft device gets enabled. I know how to start it even if the starter kill is on, but sometimes the alarm sounds. I plan to remove the anti-theft control module since I don't use it anyways.
My antifreeze is making its way into my oil. My first suspect is the oil cooler seals, since this is a well known problem on the 944. I plan to have it serviced within the next week, but in the mean time, I can't drive my car for fear of blowing the bearings, which are probably already shot. Price should be about $250.
General Comments:
This car is an excellent car. It handles very well and is extremely fun to drive. Most of the problems I'm having are probably related to the fact that it was in an accident at one point, even though, according to my mechanic, the repairs were properly done.
The running cost is a bit depressing, but when you purchase a foreign sports car, you can expect to pay for it. However the fuel efficency is wonderful, since it's a 4 cylinder; a big plus with the current gas prices.
I would definitely suggest this car to anyone with a little money and a taste for performance. These cars can be had reasonably cheap.
23rd Jan 2003, 14:28
Most reviews of the Porsche 944 by second hand owners neglect the three cardinal rules for any 944: 1.) replace the timing belt, 2.) replace the seals in the oil cooler, and 3.) upgrade to the non-rubber donut Turbo clutch. Once these things are done, the 944 is one of the real bargains in used sports cars.