15th Feb 2009, 21:29
Owning a 944 is not for the economy-minded. They are expensive sports cars that require maintenance. The old saying that goes, "If you have to ask how much, you can't afford it" is very appropriate here. The 944 is an awesome car and well worth the effort to maintain. If you can't afford it, go get a Toyota. Those of us that love them, don't mind keeping a work of art like the 944 in good shape. I have both a 944 and a 911 Carrera.
18th Jun 2009, 12:49
I just bought a 1984 944 and am looking at a 1987 944. Great handling cars, and as far as parts, check out eBay. I got quite a few parts (some used, some new) from eBay sellers CHEAP! $5-$10 average for most of the parts I bought. Some of the parts I can replace myself, but for those I can't, it saves a lot over having the shop get the parts AND install them. There is almost always someone parting out a car, so if you can find one, stock up on parts you know you will need.
9th Oct 2009, 10:49
I own and 87 944 that is maintained to near perfect condition with the only exception being the AC. It is black with Boxster wheels, newly upholstered front seats, black leather with red piping, red floor mats and red boot on shifter. It has new brakes, new clutch and a KN air filter. With 164K miles it still runs great and handles perfect and to trade would be like getting rid of the family pet, couldn't be done.
What's not to like, a real attention getter and a hoot to drive, even to a 60 yr old baby boomer.
30th Nov 2009, 23:09
I have been a long tie fan of the 944's and used to work as a mechanic, so when I tell you they are easy to work on, understand that I am not unfamiliar with cars.
I have owned 2 911's and 2 944S2 (3.0L) I would recommend them to anyone who wants an affordable sportscar with potentially awesome handling, as long as they can work on cars. I bought my first 1991 944S2 from someone who did the timing belt job themselves and did it poorly.
I bought my second one from someone who needed a timing belt and didn't want to pay to have it done.
If you can work on cars, and accurately follow instructions, they are absolutely intoxicating SECOND cars.
3rd Feb 2009, 16:36
A 944 is often a nice looking car and they drive great on the test drive... They are well made and the body and interior will hold up well over time. You'll think your getting a great deal paying only $3000 or so for it... BUT the problem comes when the first of a long series of little things start going wrong with it.
Repairs are VERY expensive. Parts are VERY expensive.
You'll pay the first few repairs thinking that will be the end, but it's only the start of a never ending series of repairs... Eventually, you realize it cost too much to own it and you'll sell it.
A Porsche 944 is much like a Boat. The happiest day is the day you BUY it, followed by the day you SELL IT.