1986 Porsche 944 Coupe

Description

Launched in 1982, Porsche’s 944 was everything the 924 should have been, with more muscular styling and an engine developed in-house by Zuffenhausen’s engineers.  The 944’s heart was a sophisticated 2.5-litre all-alloy four that was essentially half the 928’s V8, fitted with Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection and Digital Motor Electronics (DME) to control the ignition timing.  With two valves per cylinder and a 10.6:1 compression ratio, the 2479cc four developed 163 bhp at 5800 rpm and a maximum torque figure of 151 lbs/ft at 3000 rpm.  Aggressively flared guards recalled the 924 Carrera GT, hiding revised suspension and ventilated disc brakes, along with Fuchs alloy wheels and 205/55 VR16 tyres.  With near perfect weight distribution thanks to the rear transaxle, the 944 enjoyed superb handling, while the 944’s relatively light (1180 kg) weight allowed for an impressive top speed of 220 km/h.  Porsche also took the opportunity to refine the interior, giving the 944’s cabin an altogether more luxurious appearance than that of the 924.  Various improvements were carried out over the 944’s model life, including an electric release for the rear hatch, power steering and electric windows as standard equipment, tinted glass all round and a redesigned interior from 1985, with a new dash layout and 911 seats.  The critically acclaimed 944 enjoyed strong sales around the world, with 162,192 built between 1982 and 1991 and, with 911 prices continuing to rise every year, the model is now regarded as the performance car bargain of the Porsche family.