Original Porsche manual, service books and documents
The Appeal
When Porsche revealed its first water-cooled car - the 924 - in 1976 it caused consternation among purist fans, who didn't like the fact that not only was it water-cooled but that the engine was in the front.
That's because the 924 was originally co-developed by Porsche for Volkswagen before the project was cancelled, but by 1982, the purists’ concerns were largely forgotten. The 924 was a strong seller, so to get it ready for the thrusting 1980s, Porsche gave it a few tweaks, with a new 2.5-litre engine.
The body was also widened at both ends to accommodate a broader track. The resultant 944 became one of the most desirable sports cars of the 1980s, highly popular among the young and upwardly mobile – and later on an icon of “yuppie” Britain.
In 1989, the 944 was given a facelift to bring it more up-to-date, and with it came a new 3.0-litre engine, retaining the four-cylinder layout to make it Porsche’s biggest-ever four-pot, with a lively 211bhp. The ‘S2’ models are especially sought-after as a result, especially at a time when Eighties and Nineties nostalgia has reached its zenith.
This particular example is as desirable as a non-turbo 944 could get – an S2 cabriolet with manual transmission, it’s the ultimate open-top water-cooled Porsche. It comes from long-term ownership, husband and wife, and has a fair amount of history from its early years. With a little tender love and care, it will be the perfect daily driver.
The History And Paperwork
UK V5C
Genuine mileage
Large file of invoices and documentation going back to the 1990s
Original owners’ manual and document wallet
Original service book with dealer stamps
Original Porsche tools and tool roll
Old MOT certificates dating back to 1995
The Condition
Completely original Diamond Silver paint
No noticeable dents or panel damage
Factor D90 alloys in very good order
Pop-up headlamps fully functional
All original badges and trim in very good order
Body has a few marks, scuffs and chips (see photos) but is generally very smart and will require minimal work to refurbish
One small rust bubble on driver’s side lower door
Appears sound underneath, with some previous welded repairs carried out to a good standard
Smart cabin with blue-piped black leather trim
Seats in very good order with only minor wear to driver’s side seat bolster
2+2 seating formation with rear bucket seats
Electric windows
Electrically adjustable mirrors
Electric roof needs attention but can still be easily lowered and returned manually
Carpets, door cards and dashboard in very good order
Aftermarket Sony radio-CD player
All dials and controls work as they ought to
Some wear to leather upper gear lever facing
The Mechanics
3.0-litre 4cyl, 211bhp
Five-speed manual transmission
Stainless rear exhaust system
The vendor states that the clutch will require a replacement
BEFORE YOU BUY
This sale is subject to the Car & Classic Terms and Conditions. By bidding and/or making an offer, you also agree to the following:
✓ If the seller is registered as a private seller, consumer rights stemming from EU consumer protection law do not apply. Car & Classic’s return policy applies.
✓ A non-refundable deposit will be payable if you are the winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for details.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is, Where Is’ basis and without warranty. A full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase and bidding is highly recommended. Photos and descriptions are for guidance purposes only.
✓ VAT is included in the buyer's deposit. VAT may or may not be included in the final bid or offer price, as specified in the listing.
✓ UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Car & Classic are run through an online HPI check, to verify that they show no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and have no finance owing.
✓ Buyers are responsible for vehicle collection or delivery.
