In 1983, the Porsche 944 was a game-changer for the brand. It quickly transformed from a slow seller to a high-demand sports car, largely thanks to its upgraded engine and aggressive styling. Car and Driver took one on as a long-term test vehicle, logging over 30,000 miles to see if the hype matched reality. Here’s what they found.
Зміст
The Upgrade That Worked
The 944 wasn’t just a facelift of the earlier 924. Porsche swapped in a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine derived from the 928, adding substantial power and refinement. Combined with wider tires and a fully-equipped interior (power windows, A/C, disc brakes) at a price of around $19,000, it was a compelling package. The car’s performance was notable: 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 129 mph.
Real-World Performance and Handling
The 944 didn’t just perform well on paper. Drivers at Car and Driver praised its smooth engine, responsive five-speed transmission, and well-balanced chassis. The suspension handled bumps effectively, though some noted the car transmitted harsh road imperfections directly into the cabin. The optional power steering, though easier to use, slightly dulled the road feel compared to the manual setup.
The car’s performance was readily usable in everyday driving, encouraging drivers to push the engine to its redline. The wider wheels and updated suspension improved handling, achieving a skidpad adhesion of 0.83 g.
Reliability and Maintenance
Despite the initial enthusiasm, the 944 wasn’t without its flaws. Car and Driver’s long-term test revealed a surprising number of issues: failed power antennas, electric mirrors, door latches, steering rack boots, clutch slave cylinders, and even a loose windshield wiper. Many of these were covered under warranty, but still added up.
Maintenance costs averaged around $170 per 15,000-mile service, with additional expenses for tires ($102 for mounting and balancing) and wheel alignments ($68). The car consumed oil at a reasonable rate, requiring only a quart between scheduled changes. Overall, the 944 proved relatively low-maintenance, with spark plugs, air filters, brake fluid, and fuel sensors requiring attention only at longer intervals.
The Collision and Recovery
The test car wasn’t immune to accidents. An incident where another driver deliberately crashed into the 944 resulted in $6,550 in repairs. Despite this, the car was rebuilt, and the team continued testing.
A Lasting Impression
The Porsche 944 proved to be a capable and engaging sports car, despite its imperfections. Car and Driver’s long-term test showed that it could handle frequent high-performance driving without major mechanical failures. Even with occasional issues, the car remained a favorite among the testers.
“Despite its problems, the logbook we kept in the glove box is loaded with superlatives. If any of us were in the market for an affordable, low-maintenance, high-performance sports car, the 944 would be a strong contender.”
By 1984, the 944’s popularity had surged, with waiting lists stretching longer than ever. The base price had risen to $21,440, but for many, the performance and driving experience still justified the cost.
