Highlights
- California import, garage-stored in France for approximately eight years
- Factory-fitted limited-slip differential
- In current ownership for approximately eight years
- Presented as a project with a known mechanical issue
- Vendor notes it may also need general recommissioning, as it hasn't been used since importation from California
- Electronic copy of Californian title available but original currently not with the vendor
The Appeal
The 944 Turbo is widely regarded as one of Porsche's most accomplished front-engined sports cars, combining the balance and composure of the 944 platform with the performance of its turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine.
This 1986 example was imported from California by the current owner approximately eight years ago and has been garage-stored in France since. Its American provenance is evident in what the vendor describes as clean bodywork with straight panels and original sills, an area where European examples typically suffer first. Finished in its original black over a two-tone black and cream interior, the car is further specified with the factory limited-slip differential.
Prospective buyers should be aware that this is very much a project. An unresolved engine issue involving oil and water mixing persists; the head gasket was replaced and the head crack-tested upon importation, but the problem was not cured and is now believed to originate from the oil cooler seal in the sump. The vendor notes it may also need general recommissioning, as it hasn't been used since importation from California. The interior requires tidying, and the windscreen needs replacing. However, with its clean shell and sought-after specification, this 944 Turbo presents an interesting opportunity for the right buyer.
Key Information
- Mileage: 132,222 miles indicated
- Country of registration: France (imported from California, USA)
- Registration type: Normal
- Technical inspection status: not stated
- Technical specs: 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, five-speed manual
- Paperwork: original handbook included
The Detail
- Finished in original black with a two-tone black and cream interior
- 17-inch ‘Turbo Twist’ alloy wheels
- Equipped with factory limited slip differential
- Fitted with sports dampers
- The vendor describes the bodywork as having clean, straight panels and original sills
- Interior needs tidying, though the front seats are reported to be in good condition with original Porsche-logo upholstery
- Windscreen is damaged and requires replacement
- Momo steering wheel and gear knob fitted
- Engine has an unresolved issue with oil and water mixing, believed to be the oil cooler seal in the sump
- Head gasket was replaced and the head crack-tested upon importation, which did not resolve the issue
- Turbo Technics turbocharger fitted at the time of the head gasket replacement
- The car has not been started since diagnosis but did fire when Easy Start was applied to the inlet
- Vendor notes it may need general recommissioning, as it hasn't been used since importation from California
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:
✓ The seller of this vehicle is registered as a business seller. And you are covered by Car & Classic’s Terms and Conditions.
✓ We request that a non-refundable fee be paid if you are the lucky winning bidder at auction or if your offer is accepted. Please refer to our helpful FAQs and T&Cs for specific rates.
✓ This vehicle is “Sold As Seen”, on an “As Is Where Is’ basis and without warranty. Photos and descriptions are solely for guidance purposes and it's customary to carry out a full inspection of the vehicle prior to purchase for your own peace of mind.
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✓ We also check whether vehicles are recorded as being written off as part of an insurance total loss claim at the time an advert is placed and we helpfully provide write-off category labels (Cat C/D/S/N) for your assistance, the presence or absence of a label does not guarantee the vehicle’s status and it's always worthwhile carrying out your own full vehicle history check before making an offer.
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or delivery. Importing vehicles may result in additional customs duties and import taxes so it's worth checking beforehand. It is the bidders responsibility to confirm import eligibility prior to purchase.
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