Foregoing the traditional air-cooled rear mounted flat-six formula of the Porsche 911, the 944’s value hasn’t followed the same trajectory of the brand’s bestseller. Therefore, it now represents a great opportunity for many fans of the manufacturer to get a taste of what makes a Porsche a Porsche.
This car, manufactured in 1984 towards the beginning of the car’s lifespan has been very well looked after by each one of its owners both mechanically and cosmetically. Several parts under the bonnet have been replaced in recent years extending the car’s life expectancy allowing the next generation to enjoy this wonderful 1980s sports car complete with pop-up headlights.1984-porsche-944-63304e965fb60.jpg1.5 MB
Inside, Porsche 944s typically tend to suffer from a cracking dashboard, though with a fully replaced dashtop, this particular model is a rarity. Furthermore, despite the change, the car has preserved its earlier, pre-facelift dashboard shape including the indented dials, more purposeful vents and more rectangular centre console.
Aside from the newly replaced dashboard and a portion of the driver seat bolster, much of this Porsche 944’s interior is original. As the carpets complete with Porsche branding have been with the car from new, they have started showing signs of age, as has the upholstery on the centre console which is peeling in places. Elsewhere though, all the plastics and leathers look in great shape, even the gear knob which looks almost untouched.
As well as a very good-looking shifter, the centre console is decorated with a Pioneer stereo system and a few extra dials.
Towards the back, the boot lid stays open with ease thanks to the struts and the carpet looks in very reasonable condition. The owner has pointed out that the load bay cover requires some help in order to retract into its roller.1984-porsche-944-63304e9bab98a.jpg2.53 MB
The Exterior
Great black paintwork in good condition
Brilliant Fuchs-type wheels
Very well-kept body
Immediately when looking at this 1984 944, the wheels stand out. In the Fuchs style, they give this model a great stance. A closer look and you’ll notice the Falken Z1EX tyres that wrap around them, surely providing plenty of grip especially having only covered around 2000 miles.
The dark Fuchs alloys pair brilliantly with the black paintwork that was reportedly refurbished in 2016 at a cost of £900 under the ownership of the previous owner. A simple wash and it shines according to the vendor.
Not only is the paint in great shape, but so too is the body itself with no real damage to mention. The panels all look straight, and the more intricate elements of the 944 such as the pop-up headlamps and spoiler all show this car off to its fullest. A new windscreen from 2019 also fits the bill.
Under the bonnet, a perfectly presentable engine bay awaits housing the heart of this Porsche 944, an inline-four. This is connected to a 5-speed manual that, according to the current owner, provides a very nice gearchange.
Throughout the car’s life, it has clearly been very well maintained. Faultless recent MOTs along with frequently replaced filters and liquids, a full service handbook and low recorded miles in recent years all point to this car being a rather pampered example as the vendor puts it.
In more recent history, plenty of work has gone on under the bonnet from new belts fitted in 2016 to new engine mounts, gasket, oil sump and cooler all done within the last 1000 miles.1984-porsche-944-63304ea1876a3.jpg2.41 MB
Summary
The Porsche 944 provides an excellent entry into Porsche ownership without following the standard Boxster route. Great styling complete with pop-up headlights mean it certainly outdoes the open-top alternative in the looks department.
This car has seemingly been very well looked after by each of its previous keepers and should therefore go on for many miles to come. Thanks to a nice short-throw manual gearbox, it should make for an entertaining weekend drive while also having plenty of space to tick the daily driver box.
Notice to bidders
This item is sold on an ‘As is Where is’ basis. The condition of this item is the opinion of the seller and may differ from your own opinion. Photos and listing descriptions are for guidance purposes only. Car & Classic do not warrant listing accuracy. Full inspection is recommended. Viewings are at the seller’s discretion. Buyer is responsible for delivery and collection of any item purchased. A non-refundable buyer’s deposit is payable on this item, refer to FAQs and T&Cs for the applicable percentage.
