944 History

Born on the Track

The 944 was the direct descendant of the 924 Carrera series and ultimately the earlier 924/931. Beginningin 1979 and the following two years Porsche began developing racing hybrids based on the 924 whichlater lead to the 944. In 1979/80 Porsche built 406 examples of the 924 Carrera GT. In the following twoyears, Zuffenhausen continued on to develop several competition versions of the 924 culminating in 1982with the 924 Carrera GTS (of which 5 were built up as Club Sport models and sold to private owners,) andthe limited competition 924 Carrera GTR. When looking at the Carrera GTS Club Sport, one canimmediately see the immanent arrival of the 944.

Introducing the 944

In order to improve build quality, over the 924 production done at Audi's facility in Neckarsulm,production/assembly of the 944 was done in Zuffenhausen. The power plant was literally derived fromhalf of the 928's V8. At 2479 cc (2.5 liters) the engine was large by four cylinder standards of the day. Theengine was a modern design with high compression and a broad power band. The initial power plant wasrated at 163 hp (ROW) and 150 hp for the U.S.

The 944 was originally announced to the world at the September, 1981 Frankfurt auto show with the U.S.introduction one year later. Upon its introduction the interior of the 944 remained much the same as the924 while the rear suspension, although improved, retained the VW-derived architecture.

In addition to a change in the front suspension control arms, the rear suspension would change with themajor revision of the 944 that occurred mid year in 1985. Often times, owners will refer to there 944 as an85.5, designating the completely redesigned interior and other improvements to the base 944 including; new heater, air conditioning, minor revisions to the bodywork including a flush mounted windscreen, newcats aluminum front A-arms and rear trailing arms suspension components. Although changes wheremade to the engine, Porsche did not announce any changes to the factory performance specifications. Practical comparison of this watershed model change and it's predecessors indicates performance gains didresult however.

The 951

At the end of 1985, Porsche announced the 944 Turbo (factory model designation 951) which arrived inthe U.S. as a 1986 model. Performance of the 951 was a reminder of the 944's legacy, even in it's toneddown production form. Aside from the turbo charged power plant generating 217 hp with 243 ft/lbs oftorque, the 951 had other major enhancements over it's normally aspirated brother. Specifically the 951included aerodynamic polyurethane front bumper/spoiler with new air intakes serving the turbo'sintercooler mounted between the headlights under the front panel. Under body panels where added tocleanup air flow beneath the car. This extended to the distinctive air diffuser mounted under the rear ofthe car to cleanup exiting airflow past the rear end. As well, the 951 received Bembo 4 piston calipers tobring the car to a stop as well as special forged alloy wheels. The suspension received stiffer componentsto round out the comprehensive performance upgrades. The 951 also has the distinction of being the firstsports car to offer both driver-side and passenger-side airbags. Porsche also produced 198 versions of the944 Turbo as Cup racing cars.

The 944S

The 944S arrived as a 1987 model year addition with a redesigned 16 valve dual overhead cam engineproducing 190 hp. In addition to the increased number of valves and cams, the 944S came with animproved Digital Motor Electronics (DME) system with knock-sensing regulation capabilities. Alsoincluded on the base 944, the 944S benefited from the new timing belt tensioner which was implementedfor the 1987 model year. As well, the 944S received the Bembo brake calipers with optional ABS. Theinitial 944S shared the base models bodywork until 1990.

Porsche Upgrades the 951

Porsche revisited the 951 and in 1988 introduced the 944 Turbo S with total model year production of718. This performance version of the already impressive 944 Turbo received many significantimprovements including: bigger Bempo brakes, ABS, firmer springs and torsion bars, stiffer Konilow-pressure gas adjustable shock absorbers, a thicker front sway bar, and firmer suspension bushings. The following year, Porsche dropped the "S" designation and the standard 944 Turbo was in fact the "S"form factor, building 1385 for 1989. This was to be the last year the U.S. market would have access to the944 Turbo.

944 Series 2

In 1990 Porsche releases the 944 Series 2, designated 944 S2. The S2 was an extensive revision of the944S which now included the aerodynamic bodywork of the 951. The previous three engines availablewere replaced by the 3.0 liter's 16 valve engine and a big turbo 2.5 liter 944 Turbo (sold in Europe). Aswell, a soft-top version of the 944 was introduced, the 944 S2 Cabriolet. The new cabriolet was producedjointly by Porsche and the German division of the American Sunroof Corporation.

The Turbo Cabriolet

Unfortunately for the U.S. market, Porsche offered a Turbo Cabriolet version to the rest of the worldthrough 1991 with the U.S. having the standard S2 Cabriolet to satisfy our open air appetites. Only 625(non-U.S.-spec) 944 Turbo Cabriolets where built. Unless you know someone abroad who owns one andhad driven it, we are left to only dream what a drop head coupe in Turbo form factor would have felt like.

944 Series 3: Introducing the 968

In the fall of 1991, Zuffenhausen announced the Series 3 944, model designation 968. There was a briefperiod where what we now know as the 968 was to be designated the 944 S3 but in order to boostslumping sales, the model was marketed under it's factory designation and technically represented the finalrefined version of the 944 family line. In addition to further tuning of the 3 liter motor seen in the S2, the968 debuted with circular headlamps, new nose and rear end. The interior remained virtually unchangedfrom the past several years. In addition output of the 3 liter was increased to 240 hp, resulting in the mostpowerful normally aspirated production 4 cylinder available. Performance was primarily gained throughthe use of a Variocam, a camshaft chain drive with an adjustable tensioned to retard intake valve actuationup to 7.5 degrees. Along with the 29 hp increase, torque was also increased from 207 lbft to 225 lbft.The engine also now included piston oil spray cooling from squirters similar to the 911.

Managing the power transfer to the rear wheels was a six speed gearbox (offered as either a ZF or Torsenlimited slip differential,) or an optional 4 speed Tiptronic. The ZF LSD was to be deleted the followingyear in 1993 with the Torsen version as the only one offered (option code M220)..

968 Club Sport

As a final testament reaching all the way back to the 924 Carrera Club Sport, the 968 Club Sport versionappeared in 1993. The 968 CS included one inch reduction in ride height, stiffened springs and dampers,

fully adjustable suspension, and reduce weight. As with past Porsche Club Sport models, weight reductionwas obtained through deleting luxuries like; air conditioning, power windows, leather seats, stereo, andsound insulation from the passenger compartment.

In actuality a stripped down high performance version of the 968 Coupe, Porsche priced the 968 CS(available only in Europe,) under $60,000, which was considerably cheaper than production super cars ofthe time. The 968 CS represented the pinnacle of performance and handling for the normally aspirated944/968.

Rare Air - 968 Turbo S

That being said, Porsche had one final parting pass at the 968 which resulted in the ultimate performanceincantation, the 968 Turbo S. The Turbo S was a rare model only offered as limited production (15examples total ) available in Europe. The water cooled KKK turbocharger produced 305 hp (@5,400 rpm)and 369 lb-ft of torque (@3,000 rpm). Based on the 968 CS, the Turbo S rivaled even the 911 Turbo ofthat year.

In 1995, with development of the Boxster well underway and set to debut in 1996, Porsche discontinuedthe 968 bringing to a close the most successful line of Porsche outside of the 911.

The 968 in Competition

In that final year Porsche produced and campaigned a competition version of the 968 Turbo S designatedthe 968 Turbo RS. Blisteringly fast with the by now the respected handling attributes of the 944 S2suspension architecture, it was a champion from the perspective of performance with some 377 hp. Thiswould be the final farewell to arguably one of the most underrated Porsche production lines ever.

9 4 4 F A M I L Y P R O D U C T I O N

924 Carrera GT

Model Year Production Germany Rest of World Notes

1980 GT 406 200 206 includes prototypes

924 Factor Competition Production

Model Year Type Production Notes

1978 924 Rallye Turbo 4 N/A1979 924 Rallye Turbo 1 N/A1979 924 SCCA 16 for US market

1979 924 Group 4 1 built up from street car

1980 924 Le Mans GTP 4 N/A1981 924 Carrera GTS 59 5 were Club Sport with cage, etc.

1981 924 Carrera GTR 17 N/Atotal 101

944

Model Year Production Rest of World USA Notes

1982 3921 3921 N/A 1983 14633 9127 5506 1984 26539 9921 16618 1985 23720 17553 6167 1986 17010 6109 10901 1987 10689 2343 8346 1988 5965 2226 3731 8 to Aus.

1989 10593 4941 5652 total 113070 56141 56921

944 Turbo

Model Year Production Rest of World USA Notes

1985 178 178 N/A 1986 10273 2760 7513 1987 4955 1546 + 188 SP 3210 + 11 SP

1988 4097 * 1875 + 94 SP 1874 + 98 SP in addition, 126 SP Can., 30 SP Aus.

1989 4103 1333 1385 1385 Can

1990 1251 1107 144 1991 875 º 875 N/A total 25107 9331 14235 30 Aus, 1511 Can

* includes 1000 Turbo S ** includes 625 Turbo Cabriolet

"SP" designates a sport package option

944S

Model Year Production Rest of World USA Notes

1987 5862 2635 3127 100 SP

1988 7074 1305 5562 20 Aus, 188 SP Can

total 12936 4040 8688 20 Aus, 188 Can

944S2

Model Year Production Rest of World USA

1989 N/A N/A 970

1990 3321 2872 449

1991 3118 2608 510

total

944S2 Cabriolet

Model Year Production Rest of World USA

1989 N/A N/A 16

1990 3938 2114 1824

1991 1702 1140 562

total

944 Limited Production

Model Year Type Production Notes

1981 944 GTP/R Le Mans 1 1986-1989 944 Turbo Cup 150 or more

968

Model Year Production Rest of World USA Notes

1992 N/A N/A N/A 1993 N/A N/A N/A 1994 N/A N/A N/A 1995 N/A N/A N/A total 12793 8116 4677 4389 cabri of which 2260 to US

S P E C I F I C A T I O N S F O R T H E 9 4 4 / 9 5 1

ModelYear

EngineCode

Displacement(cc.)

HP@

RPM(DIN)

Stroke/bore(mm.)

Compressionratio

FuelDeliverysystem

TransmissionCode

Weight(lb.)

Chassisnumbers

1983 M44/02 2479150@

550078.9 x 100 9.5 : 1 DME 016K 2675 94DN450001-

1984 M44/02 2479150@

550078.9 x 100 9.5 : 1 DME 016K 2675 94EN450001-

1985- M44/02 2479150@

550078.9 x 100 9.5 : 1 DME 016K 2675 94FN470001-

1985+ M44/07 2479150@

550078.9 x 100 9.5 : 1 DME 016K 2637 94FN450001-

1986 M44/07 2479150@

550078.9 x 100 9.5 : 1 DME 016K 2637 94GN450001-

Turbo M44/51 2479217@

580078.9 x 100 8.0 : 1 DME 016R 2758 95GN150001-

1987 M44/07 2479158@

590078.9 x 100 10.2 : 1 DME 016K 2637 94HN470001-

944S M44/40 2479188@

600078.9 x 100 10.9 : 1 DME 083D 2637 94HN450001-

Turbo M44/51 2479217@

580078.9 x 100 8.0 : 1 DME 016R 2758 95HN150001-

1988 M44/09 2479158@

590078.9 x 100 10.2 : 1 DME 016J 2637 94JN470001-

944S M44/40 2479188@

600078.9 x 100 10.9 : 1 DME 083D 2637 94JN450001-

Turbo M44/51 2479217@

580078.9 x 100 8.0 : 1 DME 016R 2758 95JN150001-

TurboS

M44/52 2479250@

580078.9 x 100 8.0 : 1 DME 016R 2758 97JN50001-

1989 M44/11,12 2688

162@

580078.9 x 104 10.9 : 1 DME 016J 2637 94KN450001-

S2 M44/41 3000208@

580087.8 x 104 10.9 : 1 DME 083F 2637 94KN480001-

Turbo M44/52 2479247@

600078.9 x 100 8.0 : 1 DME 016R 2758 95KN150001-

1990 S2M44/41 3000208@

580087.8 x 104 10.9 : 1 DME 083F 2857* 94LN450001-

1991 S2M44/41 3000208@

580087.8 x 104 10.9 : 1 DME 083F 2857* 94MN450001-

944/951

CHASSIS & ENGINE SERIAL NUMBERS

Chassis Serial Numbers : All 944 chassis numbers consist of two groups of code letters followed by thevehicle serial No.

WPO ZZZ = Europe RoW❍

WPO AAO = USA/Canada❍

94 = first two digits of model No. - Standard 944❍

95 = first two digits of model No. - 951 (944 Turbo)❍

Z = Europe RoW❍

O = USA/Canada❍

D= model year (1983)❍

E=1984 up to 1990 L (later ZL) 1991 ZM, 1992 ZN❍

N = Neckarsulm (build plant)❍

4 = last digit of model No. (944)❍

1 = last digit of model No. (951)❍

Engine Serial Numbers

1983 41D 0001-4999 41D 5001-9999 43D 0001-4999 43D 5001-9999 Serial numbers included expander numbers A000-A999, B000-B999 and so on to H.

944 Europe RoW manual 944 Europe RoW auto 944 USA, Japan manual 944 USA, Japan auto

1984 41E 00001-20000 41E 20001-30000 43E 00001-20000 43E 20001-30000

944 Europe RoW manual 944 Europe RoW auto 944 USA, Japan, Canada manual 944 USA, Japan, Canada auto

1985 as for 1984; year code = F serial no. expanded to 60000

1986 41G 00001-20000 41G 20001-30000 43G 00001-60000 43G 60001-90000 44G 0001-00320 45G 0001-20000

944 Europe RoW manual 944 Europe RoW auto 944 USA, Canada, Japan, Australia manual 944 USA, Canada, Japan, Australia auto 944 Turbo Europe RoW 944 Turbo Worldwide

1987 944: as for 1986 with model year code = H 45H 00001-10000 42H 00001-60000

944 turbo All markets 944S All markets

1988 46J 00001-60000 46J 60001-70000 42J 00001-50000 45J 00001-10000

944 Worldwide manual 944 Worldwide auto 944S Worldwide 944 Turbo, Worldwide

OPTION CODESC O M P L E T E C H A R T O F F A C T O R Y I N S T A L L E D O P T I O N S

O V E R V I E W

In this section we include the complete Porsche Option Code Key as well as the 944/951/968 specific option codechart.

In the 944/951/968, the option codes installed at the factory can be found beneath the rear cargo carpartmentcarpet just above the spare tire well, usually pasted against the rear (forward facing) surface. Use the chart belowto match up the option codes for your car.

O P T I O N C O D E C H A R T - 9 4 4 / 9 5 1 / 9 6 8

C02 Catalytic Converter C03 C77 R01 Touring Package (Not Available w/ Airbags) R74 Touring Package 009 Sporto-matic transmission 018 Leather STR Wheel/Raised Hub 380MM(Not Available w/ Airbags) 020 Speedometer with 2 scales KPH/MPH 024 Version for Greece 026 Activated charcoal canister 027 Version for California 030 Club Sport Package 031 Sport shock absorbers 034 Version for Italy 036 Bumpers with impact absorbers 058 Bumpers with impact absorbers 061 Version for Great Britain 062 Mud flap (version for Sweden) 070 Tonneau cover - Cabriolet 103 Adjustment of shock absorber strut 113 Version for Canada 119 Version for Spain 124 Yellow light (version for France) 126 Stickers in French 130 Labeling in English 139 Heated Seat Left 152 Engine noise reduction 153 Engine parts belonging to a stipulated assembly for type 951 154 Control unit for improved emissions 157 Oxygen sensor and catalyst 158 Radio "Reno" 160 Radio "Charleston" 164 Tires 215/60 VR15 176 Oil cooler with fan

185 Automatic 2 point rear seat belts 186 Manual 2 point rear seat belts 187 Asymmetric head lights 190 Increased side door strength 193 Version for Japan 195 Prepared for cellular telephone 197 Higher amperage battery 215 Version for Saudi Arabia 218 License brackets front and rear 219 Differential 220 Limited Slip Differential 221 Porsche-locking differential 225 Version for Belgium 240 Version for countries with inferior fuel 241 Shorter shifting travel 243 Shorter gear shift lever 249 Automatic transmission 255 Fuel consumption indicator 258 Heating for outside mirror 261 Passenger side mirror - electric - plain 262 Outside mirror for passenger side, plain, manual 277 Version for Switzerland 286 High intensity windscreen washer 288 Headlight Washers 298 Prepared for unleaded fuel, manual transmission 302 Type designated on rear end 308 Pneumatic spring for engine hood 323 Sticker, without ESE-Regulations 325 Version for South Africa 330 331 AM/FM Cassette w/2 door speakers 335 Automatic 3 point rear seat belts 340 Heated Seat Right 341 Central Locking System 346 Standard color rims (silver) 347 Platinum anodized wheels 348 Forged wheels - Grand Prix White 351 Porsche-car radio, CR stereo, type DE 360 Mud Guards 375 Clutch lining without asbestos 377 Combination seat, left, adjustable 378 Combination seat, right, adjustable 379 Series seat, left electrical vertical adjustment 380 Series seat, right electrical vertical adjustment 381 Series seat, left 382 Series seat, right 383 Sport Seat Left w/Elec. Height. Adj. 387 Sport Seat Right w/Elec. Height. Adj. 389 Porsche-car radio, CR stereo, type US 391 Stone guard foil, added separately 393 Forged Alloy Wheels-8/9x16 (944/944S) (944 Turbo) 394 Pressure Cast Magnesium Rims (944/944S) (944 Turbo)

395 16" Forged Alloy Wheels (944/944S) (944 Turbo) 396 Disk wheel, telephone styling 8Jx15 rear 398 Outside Electric Mirror, Left 399 A/C without front condenser 400 Pressure cast wheels 401 Light metal wheels 402 50 year anniversary car 1982 403 Pressure cast 17" wheels 404 Stabilizer Bars Front & Rear 405 Level control system 406 50 year anniversary car 1982 406 Front wheel housing protection 1983-1986 407 18-inch polished wheels 409 Sport seats left and right leather 410 Sport seats left and right leatherette/cloth 411 License bracket, front 412 External oil cooler 414 External Transmission Oil Cooler (Turbo) 415 Wider rear track 418 Body Side Molding 419 Rear luggage compartment instead of rear seats 422 Porsche-car radio, CR stereo, type RW 423 Cassette container and coin box 424 Automatic heating control 425 Rear Window Wiper 426 Special model World Champion 1976 1978 429 Fog headlamp, white 429 Special model "Sebring" 431 Leather Steering Wheel 363MM (Not Available w/Airbags) 432 Sports steering wheel, leather 363mm (4 spokes) 437 Full Power Seat Left 438 Full Power Seat Right 439 Electric Cabriolet top 439 Special model "Weissach" 1980 440 Manual antenna, 4 speakers 441 Fader, antenna booster, 4 speakers 441 Radio speakers and antenna amplifier 442 Prepared for radio without antenna 443 Tinted front and side glass, heated windshield 444 Cabriolet 446 Parts for type "Targa" belonging to stipulated assembly 447 Emergency wheel - with collapsible tire 450 Light metal wheels 451 Prepared for radio for sport group 454 Automatic Speed Control 455 Wheel locks 458 6" Cast Alloy Wheels 461 Electric antenna, 4 speakers 462 Special model "Weissach" 1982 462 Sekuriflex windshield 463 Clear windshield 463 Lateral glasses tinted, (version for Australia)

464 Without compressor and tire pressure gauge 465 Fastening parts for transportation (version for overseas) 467 Drivers side mirror, convex 468 Graduated tint windshield, green side glass 469 Black headliner 470 Without spoilers, in conjunction with turbo look 471 Sport group 1 471 Integrated rear spoiler 472 Rear Apron 473 With spoilers 474 Sport Shock Absorbers 475 Brake pads without asbestos 475 License plate fastening (version for Austria, Finland, Australia) 476 Brake pad with abrasive pad 479 Version for Australia 481 5 speed manual transmission 482 Engine compartment light 483 Right hand drive 484 Symbols for controls 485 Forged wheels - gold metallic 487 Connection for fog headlamp with parking light 488 Stickers in German 489 Symbols and insignia in German 490 Sound Package 491 Turbo look 492 H4 headlights for left hand traffic 494 Amplifier System 494 2 speakers on back shelf 496 Black trim - painted headlight rims 498 Delete Model Designation-Rear 499 Version for West Germany 503 Cabrio variant (Speedster) 505 Slant nose 513 Lumbar Support-Right Seat 525 Alarm with continuous sound 526 Door Panels Covered w/Cloth 528 Passenger side mirror convex 529 Outside mirror - passenger side, convex, manual 533 Alarm System 537 Left seat with positrol and lumbar 538 Right seat with positrol and lumbar 548 Fuel filler neck, unleaded fuel with flap 553 Version for USA 559 Air conditioner

P O R S C H E O P T I O N C O D E C H A R T

Code Option Description009 3 speed sportomatic transmission

018 Sport steering wheel with elevated hub020 Speedometer with 2 scales KPH/MPH024 Version for Greece026 Activated charcoal canister027 Version for California030 Sport Group031 Sport shock absorbers033 Lowered chassis034 Version for Italy036 Bumpers with impact absorbers058 Bumpers with impact absorbers061 Version for Great Britain062 Mud flap, rear (series equipment for Sweden)070 Tonneau cover - Cabriolet09991 manufactured from the exclusive-programme103 Adjustment of shock absorber strut113 Version for Canada119 Version for Spain124 Yellow light (series equipment for France)126 Stickers in French130 Labeling in English139 Seat Heating - Left152 Engine noise reduction153 Engine parts belonging to a stipulated assembly for type 951154 Control unit for improved emissions157 Oxygen sensor and catalyst158 Radio "Monterey" - 86 "Reno" - 87159 Motor Sound Package160 Radio "Charleston"164 Tires 215/60 VR15176 Oil cooler with fan185 Automatic 2 point rear seat belts186 Manual 2 point rear seat belts187 Asymmetric head lights190 Increased side door strength193 Version for Japan195 Prepared for cellular telephone197 Higher amperage battery210 Number plate mounting, type II (is reduced space with two rubber

protection blocks, which you do not find on the 911 in Europe)215 Version for Saudi Arabia218 License brackets front and rear219 Differential220 Locking differential221 Porsche-locking differential224 Active Brake Differential225 Version for Belgium235 Brid N2/PIR N2 (no clue what this means)240 Version for countries with inferior fuel

241 Shorter shifting travel243 Shorter gear shift lever249 Automatic transmission255 Fuel consumption indicator258 Heating for outside mirror261 Passenger side mirror - electric - plain262 Outside mirror for passenger side, plain, manual277 Version for Switzerland286 High intensity windscreen washer288 Headlight washer298 Prepared for unleaded fuel, manual transmission302 Type designated on rear end308 Pneumatic spring for engine hood323 without ESE-regulations (not a clue what this means)323 Sticker, without ESE-Regulations325 Version for South Africa326 Radio, Becker type CR21326 Radio - ?327 Radio - ?328 Radio - ?329 Radio - ?330 Radio Blaupunkt Toronto SQR 46, All models, not for USA331 AM/FM Cassette w/2 door speakers335 Automatic 3 point rear seat belts339 All wheel drive340 Seat heating - Right341 Central locking system346 Standard colour rims (silver)347 Platinum anodized wheels348 Forged wheels - Grand Prix White351 Porsche-car radio, CR stereo, type DE, etc.360 Splash guard corner pieces373 Left Sport Seat w/ Power Height Adjuster374 Right Sport Seat w/ Power Height Adjuster375 Clutch lining without asbestos377 Combination seat, left, adjustable378 Combination seat, right, adjustable379 Series seat, left electrical vertical adjustment380 Series seat, right electrical vertical adjustment381 Series seat, left382 Series seat, right383 Sport seat - left387 Sport seat - right389 Porsche-car radio, CR stereo, type US391 Stone guard foil, added separately393 Forged wheel 8J/9Jx16393 Lateral insignias, hatched black [1978-1982]394 Disk wheel, telephone styling 8J/9Jx16 Cast - Magnesium395 Light metal wheels - forged

396 Disk wheel, telephone styling 8Jx15 rear398 Left outside mirror - electric - plain [Prior to 1996]398 17 " 5-Spoke Wheels (P205/50ZR17 front, P225/40ZR17 rear) [1996]398 18" Technology Design Wheels [1997]399 A/C without front condenser [1978]400 Pressure cast wheels401 Light metal wheels402 50 year anniversary car [1982]403 Pressure cast 17" wheels404 Stabilizer bars405 Level control system406 50 year anniversary car [1982]406 Front wheel housing protection [1983-1986]407 18-inch polished wheels408 18" Technology Design Wheels [1996]409 Sport seats left and right leather410 Sport seats left and right leatherette/cloth411 Licence bracket, front412 External oil cooler413 18" Turbo look wheels414 Combined oil pressure and temperature gauge414 Transmission oil cooler415 Wider rear track416 Leather steering wheel and shift boot418 Protective side mouldings419 Rear luggage compartment instead of rear seats422 Porsche-car radio, CR stereo, type RW423 Cassette container and coin box424 Automatic heating control425 Rear wiper426 without rear window wiper426 Special model World Champion 1976 1978429 Fog headlamp, white429 Special model "Sebring"430 Rectangular fog lights, yellow431 Leather steering wheel 363mm432 Sports steering wheel, leather 363mm (4 spokes)432 Lateral stripes, Martini [1978-1982]434 instructions for export market436 Folding Targa top (non-folding hardtop std in 1974 and 1975)437 Comfort seat left438 Comfort seat right439 Special model "Weissach" [1980]439 Electric Cabriolet top440 Manual antenna, 4 speakers441 Fader, antenna booster, 4 speakers441 Radio speakers and antenna amplifier442 Prepared for radio without antenna443 Tinted front and side glass, heated windshield

444 Cabriolet445 Wheel Rim Caps with Porsche Crest446 Parts for type "Targa" belonging to stipulated assembly447 Emergency wheel - with collapsible tire447 Headlamp flasher with lower beam [1978-1982]450 Light metal wheels451 Prepared for radio for sport group454 Automatic speed control455 Wheel locks456 Sport shock absorbers and stabilizers457 Front turn signals, yellow with provision for side turn signals458 16" alloy wheels461 Electric antenna, 4 speakers462 Sekuriflex windshield462 Special model "Weissach" [1982]463 Clear windshield463 Lateral glasses tinted, (Series Equipment for Australia)464 Without compressor and tire pressure gauge465 Fastening parts for transportation (Series Equipment overseas)467 Drivers side mirror, convex468 Graduated tint windshield, green side glass469 Black headliner470 Without spoilers, in conjunction with turbo look471 Integrated rear spoiler471 Sport group 1472 Additional rear apron472 Turbo with standard chassis [1980]473 With spoilers473 Power Left Seat474 Sport shock absorbers (Bilsteins)475 Brake pads without asbestos475 License plate fastening (Series equipment Austria, Finland, Australia)476 Brake pad with abrasive pad479 Version for Australia480 six speed gearbox481 5 speed manual transmission482 Engine compartment light483 Right hand drive484 Symbols for controls485 Forged wheels - gold metallic487 Connection for fog headlamp with parking light488 Stickers in German489 Symbols and insignia in German490 Hi-Fi sound system491 Turbo look492 H4 headlights for left hand traffic494 2 speakers on back shelf494 Amplifier system496 Black trim - painted headlight rims

498 Without rear model designation499 Version for West Germany503 Cabrio variant (Speedster)505 Slant nose513 Lumbar support - right seat513 Driver's Seat Lumbar Support525 Alarm with continuous sound526 Cloth door panels528 Passenger side mirror convex529 Outside mirror - passenger side, convex, manual530 WFS FB 433mhz (assume relates to the frequency of the remote control)533 Alarm system534 alarm system537 Left seat with positrol and lumbar538 Right seat with positrol and lumbar544 75 ltr petrol tank548 Fuel filler neck, unleaded fuel with flap551 Air Deflector (Cabriolet)553 Version for USA559 Air conditioner (with front & rear condenser)560 Detachable roof562 Airbag driver's and PASSENGER'S side562 Airbag driver's side563 Airbag passenger's side563 Automatic air conditioner565 Safety steering wheel - leather566 Rectangular front fog lights (white)567 Windshield green graduated tint568 Tinted windshield and side glass568 Tinted windshield, side, and rear glass (heated rear) [1978-1982]570 High output air conditioner571 Fog tail lamp572 Heating573 Air conditioner576 Without rear fog light577 Heated and tinted front Windshield586 Lumbar support - left seat590 Center console592 Brake fluid warning system593 Antilock brake system595 Rear spoiler painted to match body596 Spoiler painted matte black597 Heavy duty battery and starter598 Insignia "16 ventiler"599 Front window top shading601 Litronic Headlights602 Third brake light "High mount"605 Vertical headlight adjustment607 More numerous cables for dashboard

621 Differing parts for engine 924S622 Differing parts for cars with 2 V-Engine637 Sport Group642 Additive for cooling water650 Sunroof651 Electric windows657 Power steering659 Onboard computer666 Without lacquer preservation and chrome preservation673 Prepared for lead sealed odometer675 Instrument cluster - technical lighting680 Digital Sound684 1 piece rear seat685 Divided rear seat686 Radio "Ludwigsburg" SQM with arimat688 Radio, Blaupunkt,Boston, SQM 26, ARI691 CD-Player "CD-1" with Radio692 Remote CD changer (6-disc)701 Car-version Slant Nose719 Special reconstruction756 Special model 924S USA 1988757 Special model 944 1988758 Special model 944 Turbo 1988780 Remove safety certificate900 Tourist delivery912 Vehicle without identification plate925 Version for high altitude areas in the US930 Seat cover rear LLL931 Seat cover rear KKK932 Seat cover rear SKK933 Seat cover rear SLL934 Seat cover rear SSK935 Seat cover rear RLL936 Leather seats rear945 Seat cover front SKK946 Leather/leatherette seats947 Seat cover front: cloth/leather/leatherette Seat cover

rear: cloth/leather/leatherette948 Seat cover front SLL974 Luggage boot cover975 Velour carpet in luggage compartment98 Custom Non-Metallic Paint98 Standard Porsche Leather Interior (deviating std color combinations)980 Seat cover - Raff - leather981 All leather lining982 Supple Leather Seats/Trim983 Leather seats front (NOT REAR)983 Leather seats front and rear985 Parts silver coloured

986 Partial leather lining989 Left and right sport seats - cloth99 Custom Metallic Paint99 Leather Upholstery to Sample990 Seats all clothC02 Equipped with catalytic converterC03 California type carC36 Canadian type carM * Floor MatsM6 Porsche Floor MatsP02 Stereo with Compact Disc Changer (Coupe)P04 Stereo With Compact Disc Changer (Targa/Cabriolet)P08 Limited Slip DifferentialP14 Heated Seat Pkg includes adjustable heating rangeP15 Power Seat Pkg includes dual power seatsP31 Sport Chassis (includes 17" 5-spoke wheels)P32 Sport Chassis (includes 18" technology wheels)P49 Digital Sound Pkg (includes 490)P65 With sunroofPCX Porsche Cellular Phone Handset KitR01 Touring Package (not Available w/Airbags)R74 Touring PackageS** Cellular Telephone Portable (includes exclusive console)S11 Cellular Telephone w/Mounting Bracket (includes installation kit)S6 Cellular Telephone Includes exclusive consoleSAC AC Rapid ChargerSBE Battery Eliminator-Cellular PhoneSLB Large Battery-Cellular PhoneSUL Ultra Light Battery-Cellular PhoneSVD Voice Dialer Kit-Cellular PhoneX09 Console with Special Leather Extended CenterX17 Light Rootwood Dashboard (standard with Y59)X18 Dark Rootwood Dashboard (standard with Y60)X19 Leather Lower DashboardX24 Dark Rootwood Triptronic ShifterX25 Light Rootwood Triptronic ShifterX26 Steering Wheel-Special LeatherX28 Light Rootwood Steering Wheel (standard with Y59)X30 Dark Rootwood Steering Wheel (standard with Y60)X31 Light Rootwood Parking Brake Lever (standard with Y59)X32 Dark Rootwood Parking Brake Lever (standard with Y60)X34 Painted Instrument Dials includes leather trim on instrument RingsX40 Leather Sunvisors with passenger Reading LightX43 Leather Console Switch FrameX46 Aluminum Tiptronic ShifterX48 Carbon Tiptronic ShifterX52 Console CD Storage for 5 DiscsX53 Console CD Storage for 8 DiscsX54 Oval Chrome Exhaust Pipes

X56 Lower Carbon Dashboard (standard with Y04)X57 Carbon Door Trim Panels (standard with Y04)X68 Tonneau Cover (Cabriolet)X70 Metal Door Sill with InsigniaX71 Aluminum Instrument DialsX76 Flared Rocker PanelsX77 Carbon Steering Wheel (standard with Y25)X86 Light Rootwood Door Trim PanelsX87 Dark Rootwood Door Trim PanelsX89 Painted Porsche Crest Rim CapsX95 Painted Brake CalipersX97 Aluminum/leather shift knowX98 Aluminum/leather parking break handleXC3 Hardtop (Cabriolet)XC8 Light Rootwood Gear Shift Knob (standard with Y59)XC9 Dark Rootwood Gear Shift Knob (standard with Y60)XD4 Porsche Crest Rim CapsXD9 Wheels Painted to match vehicle's colorXF5 Leather Covered Instrument Rings (standard with X34)XF6 Leather Gear Box Tunnel (standard with Y17)XF7 Leather Covered Tray Located behind parking brake (standard with )XJ4 Leather Ignition Lock RosetteXJ5 Leather Covered Ignition KeyXJ6 Leather Steering Wheel CasingXJ8 Leather Tiptronic Shift PlateXK7 Leather Wrapped Shift Knob and Cover (deviating colors or to sample)XM5 Leather Control KnobsXM7 Leather Covered Glove Box KnobXM9 Leather Turn Signal/Wiper SwitchXN1 Leather Power Window Switches (standard with Y66)XN2 Leather Inside Door Handles (standard with Y66 and Y16)XN3 Leather Fresh Air Side Dash Vents (standard with Package Y65)XN4 Leather Fresh Air Center Vent (standard with Y65)XN7 Leather Parking Brake Lever (standard with Package Y17)XN8 Leather SunvisorsXP3 Leather Cabriolet BootXP6 Leather Seat Belt Locks & Housing (standard with Y17)XP9 Leather Radio Speaker Trim Rings (standard with Y66 and Y18)XR3 Leather Seat Hinges (standard with Y67 and Y18)XR6 Leather Front Backrests Lock Controls (standard with Y67 and Y18)XR7 Rear Window WasherXV1 Leather Covered Ventilating Cover (standard with Y65)XV2 Leather Fresh Air Side Vents (standard with Y65)XV3 Leather Air Conditioning Switches includes heat adjustment coversXV4 Leather Heat Adjuster Switches (standard with Package Y67 and Y18)XV5 Leather Seat Adjuster Switches (standard with Y67 and Y18)XV6 Leather Ring Plates for Seat Adjuster (switch Standard with Y67 and Y18)XV7 Leather Fuel Tank Pull KnobXV9 Leather B-Pillar Seatbelt Covers

XW1 Leather Seat Belt RosettesXW2 Leather Rear Seat Belt Locks & Housing (standard with Y17)XW3 Leather Clock AdjustmentXW3 Leather Rear Window Wiper SwitchXW4 Leather Light SwitchXW5 Leather Wiper/Instrument Light KnobsXW6 Leather Door Lock Pin Rosettes (standard with Y66 and Y16)XW8 Leather Door Entrance Panel Sills (standard with Package Y66)XW9 Leather Entrance Panel CoversXX1 Embroidered Floor Mats (requires leather interior trim)XX2 Footwell LightsXX3 Map Pocket LightsXX6 Leather Shift Lever Knob Pattern insert with deviating colorsXZ4 Leather Glove Box RosetteXZ7 Leather OS Mirror Adjuster Frame (standard on Y66)Y01 Spoiler-Aero Kit I w/Front DuctY02 Spoiler-Aero Kit II with RockersY03 Shift Lever/Brake Handle-CarbonY04 Carbon pkg I - lower dash, door trim, guage panel (standard with Y25)Y05 Shift Lever/Brake Handle-carbon and aluminumY06 Shift Lever/Brake Handle-AluminumY07 Shift Lever/Brake Handle-aluminum and light woodY08 Shift Lever/Brake Handle-aluminum and dark woodY09 Light Rootwood Pkg - steering wheel, parking brake, shifter, dashboardY10 Dark Rootwood Pkg - steering wheel, parking brake, shifter, dashboardY16 Exclusive Package I - leather door rosettes, handles, speaker trimY17 Exclusive Pkg II - leather seatbelt locks and housings, shifter tunnel,

parking brake, tray behind parking brakeY18 Exclusive Package III - leather seat adjuster switches, hinges, etcY23 Aluminum Tiptronic Selector includes aluminum brake leverY24 Carbon Tiptronic Selector includes carbon brake leverY25 Carbon package II (Y04 plus: steering wheel, shifter, brake handle)Y26 Carbon Pkg IIIY29 Aluminum/Chrome Pkg (instruments, tailpipe, door sill)Y59 Light Wood Pkg (steering wheel, shifter, brake lever, dash)Y60 Dark Wood Pkg (steering wheel, shifter, brake lever, dash)Y61 Carbon Tiptronic Shifter includes carbon hand brakeY62 Light Wood Tiptronic Shifter includes wood hand brake, aluminum switchY63 Dark Wood Tiptronic Shifter includes wood hand brake, aluminum switchY65 Dash Pkg (leather vent covers)Y66 Door Pkg (leather sills, pwr switches, locks, speaker trim, etc)Y67 Leather Seat Pkg (switches, hinges, adjusters, etc)Y75 Front and Rear Spoilers with Aero KitZ02 Leather Console TrayZ05 Leather Headliner (Custom Color) Includes A- and B-pillars and visorsZ06 Steering Wheel-Deviating ColorZ07 Trunk Carpeting (matches interior color, without CD changer)Z08 Trunk Carpeting (Matches interior color, with CD changer)Z09 Custom Leather Carpet Welting (color matched to sample interior)

Z11 Leather Carpet Welting standard color or matching interior colorZ21 Seat Stitching-Alternate Standard ColorsZ27 Headliner, Leatherette (deviating current color; visor & pillars)Z27 Headliner, Standard LeatherZ27 Leather Headliner (Porsche Colors) Includes A- and B-pillars and visorsZ31 Leather Knee BarZ35 Leather Knee Bar (requires all-leather interior)Z41 Pearl White Metallic Paint (requires metallic paint to sample)Z42 Door Trim Panels-LeatheretteZ43 Door Trim Panels-Leather (includes armrests, requires full leather interior)Z44 Leather Armrests/Compartments LidsZ45 Front Seat Inlays (deviating current colors; requires full leather seats)Z46 Rear Seat Inlays (deviating current colors; requires full leather seats)Z50 Seatbelts, Red or Yellow FrontZ51 Front/Rear Seat Inlays (deviating current color; requires leather)Z53 Head Rests Stamped w/ Porsche Crest (requires leather upholstery)Z65 Leatherette Beltline In standard deviating colorsZ66 Leatherette Beltline (Cabriolet) in deviating standard colorZ69 Carpet-Standard Color (deviating from interior colors)Z79 Deviating Standard Color A & B PillarsZ86 Dashboard in Deviating Standard ColorZ95 Titanium or Black Brake Calipers

944/944S/951

REQUIRED MAINTENANCE INTERVALL I S T O F M A I N T E N A N C E C H E C K L I S T I T E M S

15,000 mile Checklist

Check and replace if necessary main timing belt1.

Engine: visual inspection for leaks2.

Cooling and heating system: check for leaks3.

Coolant hoses: check condition and tighten hose clips4.

Radiator: visual inspection for external fouling5.

Coolant (antifreeze); check level and antifreeze content and, correct if necessary6.

Crankcase ventilation: check tightness of hose connections7.

Fuel system: visual inspection for leaks and tightness of line connections8.

Intake air: check hoses, lines and connections for tightness9.

Parking brake: check free travel of parking-brake lever and correct if necessary10.

Brake pedal: check play of brake pedal and correct if necessary11.

Brake hoses and lines: visual inspection for leaks, damage and corrosion12.

Check brake fluid level and top up if necessary13.

Brake system: visual inspection of brake pads and discs to check for wear14.

Clutch: check play and correct if necessary15.

Clutch plate: check for wear16.

Hydraulic Clutch actuator: visual inspection for leaks17.

Steering gear: check screw connections for tightness18.

Visual inspection of the bellows for damage19.

Tie rod links: check play, tightness and dust caps20.

Power-assisted steering: visual inspection for leaks, check fluid level and correct ifnecessary

21.

Ball joints: visual inspection of dust caps for damage22.

Wishbone: check screw connections for tightness23.

Front wheel bearings: check play and correct if necessary24.

Rear wheel bearings: check play and correct if necessary25.

Lubricate clutch release lever and secondary spring26.

Manual transmission: check fluid level and correct if necessary27.

Automatic transmission: check fluid level and correct if necessary28.

Drive shafts: visual inspection of sleeves for leaks and damage29.

Exhaust system: visual inspection for leaks and damage, check screw connections fortightness and attachment

30.

Tires: check condition and correct tire pressure31.

Door arrester: check operation and lubricate32.

Door hinges: lubricate33.

Check door, engine hood locks and safety hooks on front hood for tightness andfunction

34.

Seals for doors, hood and roof: remove abraded rubber, apply suitable agent to seals35.

Safety switch for fuel pump: check operation36.

Safety switch for charging pressure: check operation37.

Check operation of vehicle lighting38.

All headlights: check setting and correct if necessary39.

Horn: check operation40.

Retractable headlights: lubricate rods41.

Throttle actuator: check for smooth running42.

Windshield washer system: check function, check fluid level and nozzle setting43.

Headlight washer : check operation, check fluid level and nozzle setting44.

Battery: check fluid level and top up if necessary45.

Check operation of all electrical control equipment and optional extras46.

Heater, ventilation and air-conditioner blower: check operation47.

30,000 mile Maintenance

Automatic transmission: change ATF, clean ATF strainer■

Check and replace if necessary main timing belt■

60,000 mile Maintenance

Manual transmission: change oil in differential■

Check and replace as necessary waterpump■

Check and replace if necessary main timing belt (and every 15K miles afterward)■

2 year Maintenance

Brake system: renew brake fluid■

Cooling system: renew coolant fluid■

Porsche 924 / 944 / 968 (1976)

924 was launched in 1976. It was the cheapest model and accounted for 60% of Porsche's sales. Porsche built it inAudi's factory near Stuttgart, where Audi's 2-litre fuel-injected engine was put into the car. Early cars had rust problems,but Porsche quickly solved that with the most promising rust-proofing treatment.

924 might not be the greatest sports car but certainly the most influential coupe in the 70s and 80s. Its emphasis onelegant engineering inspired many rivals. No other cars in its segment were so well-made and well-tuned. None ofthem had the same level of handling. It was this car which accelerated the transformation of Japanese sports cars fromcheap metal to excellent machines. Its styling was also imitated by rivals. If you look at Mazda RX7, Mitsubishi Starion,Toyota Supra, Chevrolet Corvette and Dodge Laser, you'll either find a trace of its shape or its features, e.g. pop-upheadlamps and the distinctive swoopy rear glass window.

924 was originally a joint-project with Volkswagen (once again). Porsche knewvery well that a budget sports car needed mass production parts supplied by agiant car maker, so was the investment. Therefore 924 was designed to usemany VW / Audi's components - many parts of the front MacPherson strut andrear semi-trailing arm suspensions came from Golf, so was the door handle,instrument gauges etc.. The four-cylinder engine was designed to be shared

with Audi's forthcoming 100 saloon. However, due to the energy crisis, VW quit the project (once again !!) when the carwas still under development and sold the production right to Porsche for $60 million, which was a decision that VWwould forever regret.

The 924 was a success in the United States. Apart from praising its beautiful and elegant exterior, most people wereimpressed by the first class handling, superb steering feel and stable cornering. The latter must hanks to the adoptionof rear-mounted transaxle gearbox which counter-balanced the front engine. Superb gearchange and strong brakes(always a feature of Porsche) also contributed to the handling competence.

In contrast, since the 2-litre injected engine (125 hp in Europe, 95 hp in US) did not provide sufficient punch,performance was just OK. Autocar measured 126 mph and 9.5 sec for 0-60 mph. Obviously the US version was muchworse. Of course, Porsche wouldn't ignore the requirement from its biggest market, so in 1978 the 924 turbo was born.

924 turbo

Having experienced in 911 turbo, Porsche put a KKKturbo (without intercooler) into 924's engine in 1978.Power and torque jumped to 170 hp and 181 lbftrespectively. Autocar recorded 142 mph and 7.7 secfor 0-60 mph. Now the 924 became a real winner.

944

Its successor, 944, was even more successful. In order to improve build quality, production went back to Porsche'sown factory in Zuffenhausen. As a result, fit and finish and painting were greatly improved. The exterior was changed,too. Widened wheel arches made it looked much more muscular while enabled wider tracks which enhanced handling.

I still remember the first time I saw it - when I was a 13 year-old school boy. The red 944 passed in front of my eyesvery fast. The widened arches, about it I will never forget, made me believed it must not be an ordinary 924. I guessedit might be a 924 turbo which I had never seen before. A month later, I read the 944 in a car magazine.

944 944 S 944 turbo

The biggest difference from 924 was the engine: instead of the Audi engine, 944 was powered by a true Posrche-builtunit. It was derived from 928's V8. Displaced at 2479 c.c., it was extraordinarily large for a 4-cylinder. To cure thevibration problem which usually occurs in a large inline-4, Porsche installed twin-balancer shafts, which was a patent ofMitsubishi although originally invented by Lancester (Dr. Fred). There were 3 different versions of the engine - anordinary 8 valves version used in 944 Lux (or simply called "944"), a 16-valver used in 944S and a 220 hp 8Vturbocharged version powered the hottest 944 turbo.

All of them were as smooth as six-cylinder. The base engine haduseable performance from the 163 hp output. The turbo was crazy fast -153 mph, 0-60 took only 6 seconds flat. The 16 valves provided goodperformance from 185 hp while without the turbo's drawback - turbo lagand high fuel consumption. Anyway, compared with contemporary 911turbo, 944 turbo had a much better manner.

944 was very popular in USA, sales over there peaked at 30,000 units in 1986, the highest record for Porsche untiltoday.

944 Series 2But its successor was not so successful. Since 1986, Deutschmark rose considerably while Japanese sports cars werealso rising. The sales in USA dropped rapidly to 16,000 units in 1988 so that Porsche had to revise it to Series 2. Thethree engines were replaced by a 2.7-litre 8 valver (in 944 Lux), 3.0-litres 16 valves (in 944 S2) and a big turbo 944Turbo SE (250hp from the same 2.5 litres).

Perhaps Porsche did too little on the revised versions, Japanese carsheaded by Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra and the cheaper Celica ate itsmarket share rapidly. These cars imitated the Porsche but was sold at amuch lower price while offered better cabin and long list of standardequipment. Porsche started to realise the golden age of 944 had gone.

I must point out that the 944 Series 2 still offered the best handling in itsclass. Autocar compared 944S2 with the handsome Nissan 300ZXnon-turbo, the UK magazine still chose the Porsche as the real driver'schoice but also praised the overall competence of the Nissan. Meanwhile,Fast Lane magazine compared 944 Turbo SE with the 300 hp 300ZXtwin-turbo and Renault Alpine A610, still rated the Porsche's handling as

marginally better than rivals, although eventually chose the Alpine as overall winner.

968

The sun was setting, but Porsche wanted to phase out in style. In 1991, the whole 944 line was replaced by a singlemodel, 968. 968 was a new name, but it was actually an evolution from the 944 series 2. It got a pair of circularheadlamps similar to 928's, new bumpers, rear lights and rear spoiler.

Under the bonnet was 944 S2's 3-litre four added with a kind of variable valve timing called "Variocam". Three differentvalve timings were set to serve different engine speeds: below 1,500 rpm minimum valve overlapping improved torqueand refinement. From 1,500 to 5,500 rpm medium overlapping was used. Above 5,500 rpm the largest overlappinghelped raising rpm as well as top end power. As a result, maximum power jumped from 211 hp to 240 hp and torquewas increased from 207 lbft to 225 lbft, a record for any production 3-litre normally-aspirated engine. That was the lastglorious moment of the big four-pot, and also the last shine of the mighty 924 empire.

Now six-speed gearbox replaced the 5-speed. 4-speed Tiptronic was carried over from 911.

968 CS968 did not improve very much in handling and other aspect, perhapsbecause 944 Series 2 was good enough. Real drivers had to wait until theClub Sport version appeared in 1993 for real improvement in handling. The968 CS followed the way 911 CS tried in 1987 - lowered the ride height by aninch, stiffened the springs and dampers, reduced 50 kg weight by deletingequipment (air-con, power windows, leather seats, heavy hi-fi etc.)

Because of the discarded equipment, Porsche UK could price it at under30,000 pounds, which was considerably cheaper than 300ZX turbo and the

like. But most important, its handling became even sharper - Autocar elected it as the best handling car in 1993 and 94,against Ferrari 348, Lotus Esprit and Honda NSX etc.Yes, the 924 family eventually quit in style.

Specifications

Model 924 944 944S 944 turboYear 1976 1982 1986 1985

Layout Front-engined,Rwd.

Front-engined,Rwd.

Front-engined,Rwd.

Front-engined,Rwd.

Engine Inline-4, sohc,2v/cyl.

Inline-4, sohc,2v/cyl.

Inline-4, dohc,4v/cyl.

Inline-4, sohc,2v/cyl, turbo

Engine Capacity 1984 c.c. 2479 c.c. 2479 c.c. 2479 c.c.Power 125 hp 163 hp 185 hp 220 hpTorque 121 lbft 151 lbft 169 lbft 243 lbft

Gearbox 5M 5M 5M 5MWeight 1114 kg 1320 kg -- 1350 kg

Top speed 126 mph* 137 mph* 140 mph* 153 mph*0-60 mph 9.5 sec* 7.4 sec* 6.7 sec* 6.0 sec*

Model 944 (Series 2) 944 S2 944 turbo SE 968 CSYear 1988 1988 1988 1993

Layout Front-engined,Rwd.

Front-engined,Rwd.

Front-engined,Rwd.

Front-engined,Rwd.

Engine Inline-4, sohc,2v/cyl.

Inline-4, dohc,4v/cyl.

Inline-4, sohc,2v/cyl, turbo

Inline-4, dohc,4v/cyl, VVT.

Engine Capacity 2681 c.c. 2990 c.c. 2479 c.c. 2990 c.c.Power 165 hp 211 hp 250 hp 240 hpTorque 166 lbft 207 lbft 258 lbft 225 lbft

Gearbox 5M 5M 5M 6MWeight 1320 kg 1350 kg 1400 kg 1335 kg

Top speed 136 mph* 146 mph* 152 mph* 150 mph*0-60 mph 7.0 sec* 6.0 sec* 5.7 sec* 6.1 sec*

* Tested by Autocar

PorscheNamed after its founder Ferdinand Porsche, Porsche is the largest sports carmaker in the world. Annual production rate in recent years is around 15,000to 30,000 cars. In its 67 years history, it has built many greatest sports cars:356, 911, 924/944 series and 928. 356 was one of the most beloved classics,924/944 series reinvented the idea of "afford sports cars", 928 was the onlysports car ever won European Car of The Year (COTY) title, but the mostlegendary still belongs to the mighty 911, which was in production for aslong as 34 years and still remained as the core of Porsche's line-up.

Ferdinand Porsche and Ferry Porsche

Ferdinand Porsche was born in 1875. In my opinion, he was the greatestautomotive engineer in history. He emerged as a designer for electric cars,then joined Daimler in 1906 to start his motor car engineering career. Duringhis brightest years, he designed the famous Mercedes SSK (one of thegreatest pre-war cars), the Auto Union GP racer (the first mid-engined racecar, with a V16 engine) and the NSU "people's car", which evolved to VWBeetle after the war. His talent also expended to military area like tanks, aeroengines and military trucks. Therefore he was jailed after the war until 1947,four years before his death. Maybe his greatest achievement was theestablishment of his own company in 1931, which became the greatest sportscar maker later.

Professor Porsche was the last automotive engineer who design the entire carby himself. Accompany with his versatility and his influence in subsequentautomotive design, few can be compared with him. His son, Ferry Porsche(1909-98), was not ordinary either. Being a greatest engineer's son andtrained in Bosch, he succeeded his father to enhance the reputation of theircompany. In fact, it was his achievement rather than his father's to establishthe solid status of Porsche as famous a sports car maker. His creationsincluded 356 and 911.

DRIVING IN IT'S FINEST FORM: THE PORSCHE 944SERIES

THE PORSCHE 944 SERIES:

FOR 1989, MORE POWER, MANY REFINEMENTS

One of Porsche's many traditions is the ability to create and produce a sportscar concept so correct that it becomes the standard for it's type in theindustry. Introduced in the fall of 1981, the Porsche 944 was hailed as abreakthrough, a sports car to inspire imitation among it's competitors. Carand Driver called the 944 "America's Best Handling car" and "One ofAmerica's 10 Best" four years running. In spite of all the praise, Porscheengineers at the famed Weissach Development Center never stop trying tomake it better. To refine it into an optimum configuration. So, in truePorsche tradition, 944 project engineers live with the 944 each day, driving itin every conceivable climate, under the most adverse road conditions. Theykeep making it handle even better, making it faster, even more solid, morefun to own. And finally, putting exciting new editions into production. Neweditions like the 1989 944, 944 S2, and 944 Turbo. As in the past, these new

Porsches will continue to inspire imitations. Unfortunately, those who drivethe Porsche "look alike" will miss the exculsivity of owning the real thing: in1989, fewer than one new car in eight hundred sold in the U.S. will be a 944Series sports car.

The 1989 944 series is an eloquent example of Porsche AG's refinementphilosophy. The new Porsche 944: a higher performing 2.7 liter 165bhpengine and newly standard comfort and convenience features. The Porsche944 S2: a new 3.0 liter engine - one of the most powerful fours in the worldtoday - in the same body and chassis as last year's 944 Turbo. And the newPorsche 944 Turbo: the same searing performance as the 944 Turbo S, theroadgoing version of Porsche's famous Turbo Cup car, makes it the fastest 4cylinder production car ever built. At Porsche, rarely is a single change madeto realize one benefit. Rather, goals are clearly stated and then existingtechnology is synergistically improved to reap an optimized newconfiguration having multiple benefits. The new 944 engine is a case inpoint. In seeking better pulling power from low rpm, Porsche engineersspecified a displacement increase, from 2.5 to 2.7 liters. But the didn't stopthere. They also: raised the compression ratio to 10.9:1; enlarged the intakevalves; gave the engine a new camshaft with modified timing;and revisedthe digital motor electronics (DME) settings. These optimization efforts paidoff in an impressive increase in torque, particularly at low rpms. Elsewherein the 944, there are other refinements... ABS braking and automatic speedcontrol are now standard, the passenger's seat now adjusts electrically inheight, the electric sunroof and Charleston radio are standard, as is a newalarm system and larger capacity battery. Naturally, new colors and interiorsare available.

Quoted from the 1989 Porsche 944 Sales brochure

THE NEW PORSCHE 944 S2

THE PORSCHE 944 S2: 3.0 LITERS, 208 BHP.

For more than 30 years, Porsche engineers have used the "S" designation proudly. It says "this is our Superversion of this Porsche sports engine." In the case of the 944 S2, it also carries the engineer's pride of being thesecond generation of a "Super" version. The first-generation 944 S of 1987 was the first liquid cooled Porsche 4cylinder engine to employ 4 valves per cylinder. The 1989 944 S2 engine is a full 20% larger than that engine,making it, at 3.0 liters and 208 bhp, one of the most powerful naturally aspirated fours in the world today.

Also in true Porsche tradition, the new 944 S2 engine's impressive specifications are derived directly fromPorsche's successful racing heritage: high durability forged pistons; a new block pattern air intake system foroptimum throttle response; active, regulated engine compartment ventilation with 3-speed blower; large,externally mounted light alloy oil cooler with thermostat for optimum engine temperature regulation; andmodified digital motor electronics. Maximum torque of 207 lb-ft is reached at 4100 rpm; the engine's 208 bhpmaximum power is achieved at 5800 rpm with the redline at 6500 rpm. The Porsche 944 S2 owner can dependon the balance of their automobile being fully compatable with the new high output engine. The suspension,transmission, competition tested four-piston brake system with ram air cooling, shock absorbers and stabilizersare borrowed directly from the famed 944 Turbo. All 944 features are standard, and include protective sidemouldings.

Quoted from the 1989 Porsche 944 sales brochure.

AN EXCITING NEW CONVERTIBLE

Introduced at the 1985 Frankfurt Auto Show in prototype form, the long awaited cabriolet version of the 944 hasproven to be worth the wait while Porsche refined each detail for full Porsche production quality. Porsche'sdevelopment objective behind the 944 S2 Cabriolet was to enhance the driving pleasure unique to the 944 Seriesby the sensation of top-down driving. This elegant, agile convertible meets and surpasses every sports carconvertible goal.

In the past, a Porsche Cabriolet edition must offer all the qualities of it's Coupe counterpart. The 944 S2 is noexception. The fully lined, insulated top is easily raised or lowered; when up, it provides near Coupe comfortqualities. Thanks to the transaxle driveline - engine in front, transmission and fuel tank in the rear - the 944 S2body is highly rigid, making it an ideal basis for a convertible. To further ensure torsional rigidity, Porscheengineers specified various bodyshell reinforcements to ensure safety without compromises. Galvanizedreinforcing panels and special corrision protected joints result in long-term protection typical of Porsche.

The Cabriolet's windshield - lower than on the 944 S2 Coupe version - permits ideal open-top driving pleasure.The interior retains the practical 2 + 2 features of the Coupe; folding down the rear seats provides access to theluggage compartment, allowing skis or other bulky items to be transported. The 944 S2 personifies the Porschedesigner's wish to let the owner of this exciting new Porsche "have it all:" high leisure time value, with leisuretime versatility - combined, of course, with Porsche performance!

THE FASTEST 4-CYLINDER AUTOMOBILE EVER MADE

PORSCHE 944 TURBO: A TURBO CUP CAR FOR THESTREET.

For 1989, Porsche proudly presents the 944 Turbo, the fastest 4 cylinderproduction automobile ever made. To appreciate the technological sophisticationrepresented by the 944 Turbo, a brief review of the model's history may behelpful. Porsche project engineers set a seemingly impossible design goal for the2.5 liter intercooled and turbocharged engine... a 50% increase in bhp over thethen-944's 147 bhp, a 77% increase in torque - all with the smallest possiblepenalty in fuel economy. The resulting sports car hit the target squarely: 217bhp,243 ft-lbs torque, top track speed 152 mph *, fuel economy approximately 1 mpgless than the 944.

Putting power and efficiency of this magnatude in the superbly balanced 944transaxle format created an automobile that drew enthusiastic praise fromthroughout the motoring world. Automobile was typical: "The inherent balanceyou detect in the 944 Turbo makes you feel you could do anything with it; thepracticality of it makes it easy to enjoy." However impressive such a level ofperformance may be, last year Porsche introduced an even higher performanceversion of the 944 Turbo. Produced in a limited series of 1000, this automobilewas derived directly from a racing version that competed in the Porsche TurboCup series waged throughout Western Europe. For 1989 the new 944 Turboincludes all of the performance characteristics of the 944 Turbo S. It features 30bhp more power, significantly higher torque, and improved suspension, brakes,wheels and tires. The brake system with ABS is from the 928 S4 system. Newwider forged wheels are 7 in. front, 9 in. rear, with 225/50 ZR16 tires at the frontand 245/45 ZR at the rear. The sports suspension settings are basically the sameas on the successful Turbo Cup models. The result, for the Porsche 944 Turboowner, is an uncanny level of handling for a street car - with maximum reservesof safety for everyday driving. "It's 65.1 mph sprint through the cones and .89gloop around the 200ft circle makes it one of the fastest cars we've ever tested"found Road and Track. To this road car with very direct competition linksPorsche has added the most comprehensive complement of luxury andconvenience equipment. Air conditioning, limited slip differential, power tiltsunroof, stereo cassette music system with hi-fi sound package, and an alarmsystem are a few of the standard equipment features.

*Top speeds are noted to show performance capabilities. Porsche recommends thatall speed laws be obeyed

Quoted from the 1989 Porsche 944 sales brochure.

SYSTEMS ENGINEERING: AN OPTIMIZED SYNTHESIS

A PERFECT SYNTHESIS OF DESIGN SOLUTIONS

The new Porsche 944 Turbo is the embodiment of Porsche's commitment to develop a sports car as a system -with power increases dictating chassis development. After meeting the original design goal of 50% more power,Porsche engineers proceeded to specify more sophisticated brakes, transmission cooling, heavier dutysuspension, optimized aerodynamics - even wider wheels with lower profile tires.

Each Porsche 944 Series sports car is a uniquely successful blending of advanced driveline and suspensiontechnology. Of economy. Of unparalled quality in design, engineering and manufacturing. Of reliability andeveryday practicality. Of driver and passenger comfort, ease of control and design features affording substantialactive and passive safety.

Moreover, here is an excellent synthesis of desirable characteristics that at first glance might seem contradictory.For example, responsive handling and economy, or high performance and everyday reliability. Far from being aproduct of chance, this synthesis is based on extensive knowledge gained from Porsche research and

development covering every aspect of automobile manufacturing. From Porsche's rigorous involvement in motorsports. And from consistent worldwide communications with Porsche owners. Porsche designers, engineers andbuilders proudly endowed the 944 Series with these qualities considered so desirable in a sports car. Qualitiesthat are steadily making these Porsche's contemporary classics.

At Porsche, solutions are synthesized until they solve multidimensional needs. In the case of the 944 S2 and 944Turbo, a wing apron, specially developed for this ultrahigh-performance automobile and situated below the rearbumper, fulfills three tasks at once: airflow under the vehicle is improved; straight line behavior is stabilized; andthe transmission and muffler are effectively cooled.

Quoted from the 1989 944 sales brochure.