Highlights

Finished in Guards Red over Brown/Beige Pinstrip Velour
Purchased as a restoration project in 2023
Recent respray
Valid MOT until April 2026

The Appeal

By 1988, the 944 S represented a sweet spot in the evolution of the transaxle-era cars from Porsche, blending the balanced handling that made the 944 range so admired with a new 16-valve version of its 2.5-litre engine. With around 187 hp on tap, sharper throttle response, and the confidence of rear-wheel drive paired to a rear-mounted gearbox, the S delivered a more eager, rev-happy character without sacrificing the everyday usability that endeared the model to enthusiasts. It was (and remains) a thinking driver’s sports car: precise, communicative, and understated, offering much of the marque’s magic in a practical, accessible package.

This June 1988 example presents in classic Guards Red over a distinctive Brown/Beige pinstriped velour interior; an evocative period combination that suits the car’s late-’80s character perfectly. Largely original and showing just over 130,000 miles on the clock, it was acquired by the current keeper in 2023 as a restoration project and has reportedly seen minimal use since 2021. The seller advises that it has benefited from a “recent respray, where sill corrosion and bodywork issues were also addressed,” helping the paintwork present exceptionally well today. Stored dry and accompanied by a valid MOT until April 2026, it appears to have been carefully preserved in recent years.

The interior retains its factory charm, from the original instrument cluster and switchgear to the characterful partial leather seats, while the removable electric-tilt sunroof adds a welcome open-air option. There are honest signs of age, some dashboard cracking and light wear to the steering wheel and gear shift, but these feel in keeping with a well-used, well-loved driver’s car rather than detracting from it. On the road, the vendor notes it “starts first time and drives beautifully,” and reports “no leaks, knocks, bangs, or excessive smoke.” For the enthusiast seeking an engaging, usable classic with authentic analogue appeal, this 944 S offers a compelling blend of originality, recent cosmetic attention, and that unmistakable transaxle poise.

The History & Paperwork

First registered in June 1988
Purchased as a restoration project by the existing keeper in 2023
The photos indicate an odometer reading of 130,477 miles
We have been informed that the odometer has stopped working
Minimal mileage covered since 2021
We’re advised that the car is “kept in dry storage”
Latest V5C issued in December 2024
Service history status is unknown
Vehicle will be sold with a fresh service
Valid MOT until April 2026

The Condition

Finished in Guards Red with Brown interior
The paintwork presents well; the seller advises that the car has been “recently resprayed and all sill corrosion and bodywork issues addressed.”
Some plastic trims, including the wing mirror glass surrounds, rear bumper trim, and rear spoiler, could benefit from re-blacking
Factory 15-inch telephone dial alloy wheels could benefit from a light refurb
Removable sunroof panel with electric tilt adjustment
Underside of the vehicle appears straight and as expected
Engine bay is tidy and presents well
Partial leather seats with Black leatherette bolsters and Brown/Beige pinstripe velour
Brown carpets, including the half-leather, half-carpet doorcards, present well throughout with minor imperfections
Additional rubber floor mats
The dashboard displays cracking in the centre
Original instrument cluster and switchgear
Odometer is no longer working we are told
OEM 360mm leather steering wheel presents some wear consistent with age and usage
Single-DIN JVC radio and CD player
Gear shift presents signs of wear consistent with usage
Spare wheel and tools can be found in the boot

The Mechanics

2.5-litre four-cylinder 16-valve petrol engine
Rear-mounted five-speed manual transaxle
Approx. 187 hp
Rear-wheel drive
The vendor notes: “Starts first time and drives beautifully” & "Vehicle will be sold with a fresh service"

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