Lot details
Registration No: G128EJB
Chassis No: WPOZZZ94ZLN430438
Mot Expiry: Nov 2010

Introduced in 1982, Porsche's front-engined, rear-wheel drive 944 was a direct development of the 924 and was built around a re-engineered 924 platform. The company replaced the Audi engine with their own four-cylinder unit of 2.5-litres which, despite having few common parts, was effectively half of the 5-litre V8 that powered the 928. Other significant changes included wider wheel arches similar to those of the 924 Carrera GT, a better equipped, more refined interior and upgrades to the suspension and brakes. Though the early cars were not especially fast they did boast excellent handling - the specification of a rear transaxle endowing the 944 with nigh on 50/50 front to rear weight distribution. Unveiled for the 1989 model year, the S2 derivative carried a revised 3.0-litre DOHC engine that developed some 208bhp and 207lbft of torque. A strong performer, it was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in 6.0 seconds and 149mph. For the first time there were two body styles to choose from - Coupe and Cabriolet. A total of some 4,000 Cabriolets were produced before the 944 model range was superseded by the 968 in 1991.

The 944 S2 Cabriolet on offer is a 1990 model. A righthand drive car with 5-speed manual gearbox, it features silver coachwork and a white leather interior. The Porsche has apparently covered just 62,000 miles from new and comes with an extensive main dealer / specialist service history as well as a cassette radio and alarm. The owner describes the engine, gearbox, electrical equipment, interior trim, bodywork and paintwork as being in "excellent" condition. He also informs us that the engine belts were replaced in November this year. The Cabriolet is taxed until the end of April 2010 and has a recent MOT certificate. 944s are sturdy cars that survive the test of time well. With values arguably still on the conservative side, they currently offer a very cost-effective entrée into Porsche ownership.