Which year 944 to buy ? Please help!

[esanmiguel]

Interested in getting a 944. Ok, I have read the various FAQ's and pages on 944's lately and I am better educated on these cars. I am more interested in the car's handling than its power, so a non-turbo would be my choice. I also want an 86 and above due to the newer dash design.

My choice is down to either the normal 944 or the 16 valve "S".

Which engine is typically more reliable? Which year 944 would be considered the most reliable? (considering properly maintained).

[AC_A340-500]

Over here in Germany, it's generally agreed upon that the 944 "S" with the 190hp engine was the least reliable engine of the 944 series. In addition, it apparently did not deliver the advertised horsepower either, as the performance figures weren't much different from those of the "regular" 163hp 944. However, I should add that I've never owned an "S", and I've never even driven one. My starements above are purely based upon significant amounts of literature that I've read on the subject over the years. I certainly don't mean to offend any 944 "S" owners!

I did, however own a 944 S2 with the 3 liter 211HP engine. As far as I know, it was the best combination due to the bigger (very reliable) engine and the Turbo looks. However, seeing as you place an emphasis on handling, make sure you get one with the handling package! I had mine for 40,000km's without any problems whatsoever, aside from a brake-job.

[Cbass]

The S2 is probably the best bet, but if money is an object, an '86+ 944 still handles very well, but it doesn't have as much power...

Get out and test drive a few, see what you think.