PORSCHE 944 (Is the 944 a reliable daily driver?)

If you had to pick just one car to be your dream daily driver, what would it be?
Today, we take a look at an 80's Classic, the 1985.5 Porsche 944.
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Sullivan Racing Products
Awesome Foot Pedals and Footrest
Scott Scheetz 944 Modifcations:
Only 944
Porsche 944 Short shifter, Quick shifter, Shift Linkage (94442401302) $95.00
Porsche 944, 924 Shift Linkage Arm, Replacement for (94442414100) $26.00
McMaster-Carr
bearings, bushing and bolt for shifter-
homemade version of www.only944.com/partscatalog/...
plus a bushing in the arm
drill out shift arm to accept press in of bushings, cut bushings flush with arm-
ream bushings if needed for clearance fit of bolt ( think I used the shorter one)
washers and flat bearings on each side and finish with nylock nut
5909K11 Needle-Roller Thrust Bearing for 10 mm Shaft Diameter, 24 mm OD 2 each 3.90 7.80
5909K71 1 mm Thick Washer for 10 mm Shaft Diameter Needle-Roller Thrust Bearing 4 each 1.53 6.12
92981A306 Alloy Steel Shoulder Screws,
10 mm Shoulder Diameter, 40 mm Shoulder Length, M8 x 1.25 mm Thread 2.64
92981A335 Alloy Steel Shoulder Screws,
10 mm Shoulder Diameter, 45 mm Shoulder Length, M8 x 1.25 mm Thread 3.36
6679K15 High-Load Dry-Running Bearing with Steel Shell, Bronze-Backed
PTFE, for 10 mm Shaft Diameter, 15 mm Long 2 each 3.05 6.10
LINDSEY RACING
LRA-NA-TUNE NA-TUNE MASS AIR FLOW INTAKE KIT 944 8v $599.95
LRA-968-MO30-LR-SBK 968 MO30 LR SWAY BAR KIT 924 / 944 ALL / 968 $608.60
Lindsey Racing 968 M030 LR Sway Bars. 30mm Front and 19mm 5 Way Adjustable Rear for your '85/2 and later 944, 944S, 944S2, 944 Turbo & 968. With the optional Early Outer Sway Bar Mounts, you can also put our kit on your early thru '85/1 944, 924 and 924S.
Rear swaybar links from 86 if your car doesn’t have a rear sway bar
Front swaybar brackets - homemade, like rennbay.com/944-Sway-Bar-Brace...
Shocks
front - Koni 8641-1038 Sport
rear BOGE - PART #. 27-153-F
Offset Camshaft Key 4° 928motorsports.com/parts/offs... $25.00
Photo Credits: Porsche A.G., Paul Flores MohFlo Photography, Grant Michael
Special Thanks: David Milligan, Grant Michael
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[@matthieubret3304]

I own a 1984 NA 944 for 3 years now. That's a really good review you have done here! I agree with you about the description you make of it and the things to check before buying one. According to my personal experience, I would maybe add a few details to check about the car if someone wants to purchase one: - The steering rack has to be checked. It's a common problem from the factory. You have to check for leakage and probably change it if it hasn't been done before. - The cooling system is a sensitive thing to check to make sure it works properly. Since it's an old car, failures are common. Sometimes, it's just an easy job like a thermostat or a fan switch but it has to be taken care of (Common issue to all old cars). - Fuel lines has to be checked. It's really cheap to change and can prevent a fire (Common issue to a lot of cars). - Depending if the car has been sitting for a long time before it gets back on the road, hoses and seals might have to be replaced as well (Common issue to all cars). Sometimes, it takes some work to put on the car, especially after the purchase. It's an investment, but in my opinion, it's absolutely worth it! I use mine whenever I feel like it, no matter if it's to go to work, pick up groceries, or go on a road trip. Every time I turn the key, it starts right away. It's a really fun and reliable car that will put a smile on your face every time you start it! ;)

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you, Matthieu! I agree with you 100%. Clearly you know these cars, and in fact I did replace the items you mention when I first purchased the car, as a preventative maintenance thing. I would love to have included every little item in my video,, but few people will watch a 45 minute video! This car had 4 previous owners, and was daily driven until just a few years ago. I bought it a year ago, and it once again gets driven every day, including trips from Dallas down to COTA. I'm going to pin your comments to the top here. thank you for watching!

[@matthieubret3304]

@@GTSCarLife Indeed! It would easily 45mn to 1 hour to talk about everything! Preventive maintenance is the key with old cars! Your 944 looks really clean! Like you said, it becomes harder and harder to find them in good shape or all original. The moment people realize how good these transaxle Porsche are, they will all fight to get one! There are not a lot of classics you can still drive like if they were new.

[@peterleung8421]

Too bad, I am a die hard fan but money is still a problem. haha...

[@GTSCarLife]

It really helps if you can do your own labor, because the parts are truly reasonable. A 944 will cost far less to maintain than most any other Porsche or European sports car. If you find a well maintained example like this one, it can even cost less to own than what you would pay monthly to drive a new Civic, Mazda 3 or Corolla. Thanks for watching!

[@dedwardmalick]

Very helpful. Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

[@digitai36]

Yes, I've been driving one for the past 12 years as my daily. Just care for it, do preventive maintenance, and tires, and upgrade the A/C^^

[@GTSCarLife]

Agree 100% Thank you for watching, and for your comments!

[@JMan6271]

Thanks for the tips^^

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching!

[@JMan6271]

@@GTSCarLife ofcourse!

[@trbossdoggy]

How do you upgrade the ac and what's wrong with the stock one ?

[@anthonyrozada1980]

I just purchased a 944 Turbo, 110K miles, all service records including. She (Ingrid) is a unicorn. She is being shipped her as I write this. Can’t wait to make her my daily driver.

[@GTSCarLife]

Congratulations and welcome to your new home, Ingrid! You will have a lot of fun with her. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing your exciting news!

[@dallaskibberacing]

I am 15 years old and i got a 85.5 944 for my 15th birthday. I drive this on a school permit to high school (i park in the back to not be hit😉), and i love it. It's such a good looking car and i greatly enjoy driving manual.

[@GTSCarLife]

That is awesome! I bought this 1985.5 944 for my son for his 15th Birthday, and he also drove it daily and to school for 3 years. It is a super reliable car and indeed very special. The 1985.5 was actually the new 1986 model, with the greatly improved interior, windshield embedded antenna and various mechanical upgrades, but Porsche did not have the newly mandatory for 1986 3rd brake light (CHMSL) ready, so early 1986 models were sold as "1985.5", making your car a very rare example of an already special car. Thank you for watching, subscribing and sharing your story! And welcome to Porsche ownership, you have cool parents!

[@notny41]

Very good overview of the 944. As far as the odometer goes though; it was not designed to break when you reset it while moving, that just happens to be when people notice it being broken. The gear that is responsible for making the odometer turn degrades over time to a consistency of putty and it will eventually break. I replaced mine and the old one just crumbled apart as you touch it. Someone said it was a combination of the type of plastic it was made of and the reaction between that and the grease they used to lubricate it. Once a new gear is installed it is ok to reset the trip meter at any time - moving or not. ;)

[@GTSCarLife]

Very interesting insight. Thank you for sharing. I made that comment tongue in cheek; obviously Porsche did not intend for it to break, but I have never heard your explanation. Makes sense! Maybe I should replace my gear now? Thanks for watching.

[@DFWreal]

Wow, probably the best and most detailed 944 review I've seen. Stunning car, too. Thanks for this take on things and all the great info!

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for your feedback and thanks for watching!

[@barnabywild2215]

Surprisingly easy and inexpensive to service yourself. I've had five and am looking to buy another after experiencing seller's remorse. DO replace the timing balance belts within recommended times though as it's an interference engine and expensive damage if they let go.Sadly they're not as cheap to buy as they were ten years ago - not in the UK anyhow, you could pick up a fairly mint early 80s one for £2500

[@GTSCarLife]

Used to be maybe 10 years ago, some sellers would give them away for free. That has changed as so many were destroyed or turned into race cars. The 944 is truly a fantastic sports car and so easy to own and enjoy! Thanks for watching, subscribing and contributing your thoughts.

[@bewear2796]

Great review, I couldn't agree more. If anyone is looking to buy a 944 you should do it as soon as you can since the prices of the car have been going up.

[@GTSCarLife]

Great advice! Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing your thoughts!

[@milligan277]

Another brilliant video! Learned a lot about an absolutely beautiful car. Looking forward to the next video.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching, David. More to come!

[@GrantMichaelQB]

Awesome, and incredibly immaculate 944! My favorite Porsche, and thank you for a great video! Looking forward to more content!

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching! Lots of great content in the works!

[@miataenjoyer2786]

Would this be a decent first car for an enthusiast with enough money put aside for major maintenance (1000-2000$)? I’ve been eyeing these for a bit, great review too!

[@GTSCarLife]

Are you able to do most maintenance and minor repairs yourself? The 944 is inherently a simple and reliable design. 4 cylinders, manual transmission and not a whole lot to go wrong. So the big answer is yes, these are great cars - first, or fourteenth - for an enthusiast. But remember these are around 35 years old now, give or take, so you’ll want to make sure you buy one with a strong maintenance history that’s been well taken care of. Parts are inexpensive and plentiful, but labor rates are the same as for any other Porsche. Don’t think you can buy a $3,000 car with deferred maintenance and get away with a $2,000 repair budget. Even a real nice car like the one in the video still needs the factory maintenance schedule adhered to, and that includes changing the timing and cam belts, oil and filter and wearable items. The car in the video is still running its original clutch, but when the time comes to replace it, it won’t be a cheap job since a it’s a transaxle design with a torque tube (like the C7 Corvette) . If you’re comfortable doing most service yourself, or you can take it to a qualified shop as the need arises, you’ll find a very special and beautifully styled Porsche that is well balanced, a lot of fun to drive and is appreciating in value. Let us know what you end up doing! And thank you for watching and for your comments!

[@miataenjoyer2786]

GTS Car Life I’ll be sure to keep this all in mind. Thanks and have a good one!

[@GTSCarLife]

Miata Man Good luck and let me know what you do!

[@GTSCarLife]

@Corky Kaericher Thank you for watching Corky, and for your thorough reply. I couldn't agree with you more! I'm sure many other viewers who are and will be considering a 944 in the future, will appreciate your insight! Thomas

[@fredbobberts5753]

The steering is not slow on a later car, 86 plus with a good rack, good lines, good reservoir, and good power steering pump. But especially the rack...yeah the power steering can be a pain.

[@stankakol5195]

Outstanding video. Thanks for tracing the history of the model.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you so much for watching, and for subscribing! I appreciate your comments.

[@sharonmichael9811]

Awesome video, great resource and very informative! Thanks!

[@GTSCarLife]

Glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for watching!

[@mikechan231]

Great vid and commentary, thanks. Been considering one for a while.

[@GTSCarLife]

Find one that’s been well taken care of and you’ll truly enjoy owning and driving a 944. Three years later and this one still looks and drives great, and I’m amazed by how many people give a thumbs up, or stop to ask about the car and share their own love for Porsche’s 944. These are truly very special, and attainable Porsches! Thank you for watching and for sharing your thoughts!

[@littlepippin8445]

Lovely review - thanks for that.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching and for your comments!

[@dedwardmalick]

Nice video. Current 911 owner, but I am considering purchasing a 944 as another fun car. Your video was extremely informative. Thank you

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching Dale, and for subscribing! The 944 is a great sports car from a simpler time, when manufacturers were able to engineer and style cars for emotion and driving purity. Todays cars are over complicated and burdened by too many international regulations. There will never again be a simple, pure sports car like the 944, and I'm sure you will enjoy it. They are surprisingly practical and reliable for such a special car! I will have updates on this 944 in future videos.

[@dedwardmalick]

@@GTSCarLife I completely agree. I love vintage cars. Looking forward to your future videos. Once again, thank you for sharing your experience and videos. Best, Dale

[@vwjetta4138]

Love this video. There are many videos were people talk about the 944 and complain about the smallest things but this video talks about how reliable these beasts are.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching. We daily drive this 944 and it’s been bulletproof. Buy quality and maintain it the way it is supposed to be, and these simple, older Porsches will reward you with a unique and special experience you just cant find elsewhere! Cheers!

[@bryanalston1369]

Great review!

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you! And thank you for watching.

[@christopherkast8045]

I have had my now pristine 1987 944 N/A in guards red for a year and have about 250 hours of restoration (100 hours on the original paint alone). I have always promised myself I would own one at some point and I completely agree it is a real pleasure to take on spirited drives on twisty backroads and highways alike. Mine has Lindsey Racing header, exaust and the RasantDME chip for brisk performance

[@GTSCarLife]

Wow, sounds beautiful! Would love to see pics, and hear your thoughts on the value of the LR and Rasant mods. Thank you for watching, and for sharing your comments!

[@christopherkast8045]

@@GTSCarLife Thanks for the reply and really liked your video. I have been a fan of the transaxle Porsches for years. The 4 cylinder LR header and exaust five a great note to the car as well as add some horsepower along with K & N low restriction air filter to take full advantage of the factory CAI. The Rasant chip add 20 % to the factory torque for about 180 ft-lbs and a 15 % increase in HP and better fuel economy.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank You!

[@EchoRhythmMusic]

I have a Panamara but the love for Porsche’s started with my mom’s 87’ 928 and her 92’ 944 (which she eventually got a 94’ Supra) and this looks REALLY good

[@GTSCarLife]

Wow, those are all some very special cars. What a cool Mom you have! Thanks for watching and for sharing that!

[@skitsaphrenic]

Ive had my Porsche 944 for exactly a year. Im completely rebuilding it from the ground up with my dad. We still have a while to go. Its very confusing on how to work and build the engine correctly! Everyone is very vague on what to do on the internet. Atleast they have a nice manual and catalogue. Thank you for the informative video!

[@GTSCarLife]

Congratulations on your new 944! I don’t do most. work on my cars myself, so I can’t help you there, but these cars are very reliable and simple to work on. Most towns have a Porsche specialist or two. From what I understand, changing the clutch is the most difficult item, taking the better part of two days, and something I wouldn’t recommend you try! Good luck, let us know how you progress and thank you for watching!

[@cet777]

Great video! I also have a 1985.5 which I have owned and daily driven from April to November (I live in Canada), since 2018. It has been a great car although maintenance isn’t exactly light on the wallet...

[@GTSCarLife]

Thanks for watching! Parts are generally inexpensive, but for sure, labor rates are standard Porsche if you don't do it yourself!

[@miguelcastaneda7236]

do work yourself zims..water pump under 59$.timeing belt under 40$...belt tension tool can likely borrow from fellow owner or rent

[@AAwillron303]

Great looking 944! I agree with you in regards to NA vs turbo. I love my 86 951, but the NA or an S/S2 would be better for a DD.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching! Yes, I love the Turbo and have driven many, but from a reliability standpoint, naturally aspirated is simpler, runs cooler and is just easier to live with. Appreciate your feedback!

[@maddymiller1002]

Wonderful video

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for your kind comments, for watching and for subscribing!

[@grantmichael5803]

Great Video👍

[@GTSCarLife]

Love this car!

[@BennysBenz]

I bought a 86 944 that was a basket case I was looking for a project took the engine and did the a full restoration lucky the body and interior were in mint shape. The 944 community is great and very helpful on foruma like rennlist. Love the car super fun and won't get you in trouble.

[@GTSCarLife]

That is awesome to hear and yes, I agree with you! So much help in the 944 community. Thank you for watching and for your feedback!

[@normsallitt2753]

Beautiful 944. My first Porsche was an Alpine White 1987 944 with black interior and can can red leather seats.

[@GTSCarLife]

Wow, that combination sounds beautiful! 1987 was a great year. Thank you for watching, and your sharing your comments!

[@Kristian_Saile]

That is one clean example, gorgeous! I have an ‘83 and an ‘86. Have had the early car for 25 years now. I really like the combination of light feeling car with that heavy Germanic feel to everything. You don’t really understand it till you spend something time in one. I had a ‘69 911 for done time too, before they got really valuable... doh! And I ended up keeping the 944 and selling the 911 because it was a better performing car all around. Anyway, enjoyed the video.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for your comments! I agree, the 944 is an amazing car and one of the best Porsches ever. Such an amazing and well balanced sports car. I hope you will enjoy future videos! Thomas

[@scottlochans4180]

944 looks lovely, for a proper gifted Driver

[@GTSCarLife]

Agree! Thank you for watching!

[@twagn]

Love the appearance and styling of the 944. Technology has come so far since. My 08 Mazdaspeed 3 would absolutely kill it in just about every category except styling

[@GTSCarLife]

No doubt a Toyota Camry would beat it 0-60, but the 944 as a package is a truly special Porsche and one that can never be repeated. Thank you for watching and for your comments!

[@GTSCarLife]

Fast and Fun are two entirely different things! Everyone is building “fast” cars today, but not many of them are fun or special. Thank you for watching!

[@Seaker24]

My GTI and Z4 blow it away but I have the biggest smile in my ‘89 944. The only other car I had that I also enjoyed was a ‘71 240Z. Had a ‘68 Vette that I wish I kept but it was a stressful drive. All around low maintenance car was my ‘88 Mustang GT. But at this time in my life I’m keeping the 944 as long as it will keep me.

[@GTSCarLife]

Well said! Thank you for watching and for sharing your thoughts!

[@flogmarp82]

planning on buying one as my first car

[@GTSCarLife]

They make great first cars. This one was my son’s from age 15 until he went away to college. Now it’s just fun use, but this 944 has been so amazingly reliable and still gets more compliments and reactions than any other car we own or have owned. Thanks for watching, subscribing and let us know when you get yours!

[@SAMMYJR00777]

Great video and lovely 944 😍. I have 87 944s and 928s4 top shape love them both. They r a time.machine and were ahead of times. Now days all the cars will be electric and our cars will only go up in prices w haed turns each ti.e I drive them. It is truly an art. Porsche for life 👍

[@GTSCarLife]

I agree with you 100%. Porsche nailed it with the 944, and both the 944 and the 928 were ahead of their time. I wish Porsche still made these cars! Have a great day thank you for watching.

[@SAMMYJR00777]

@@GTSCarLife I have a feeling some time later they might make them electric version is likely not the same I know. I m a oli head al8and I think electric cars has no soul

[@GTSCarLife]

I agree - electric cars are soulless. Cars in general have become too fast to be enjoyed on the road. Once electric cars are the standard, their skateboard type platform will allow for easy and inexpensive variations including something that looks more like a 944.

[@PixelPlayz101]

BEAUTIFUL

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for your comments!

[@PixelPlayz101]

Your welcome :)

[@pierremartin9048]

At 50 years old, some 6 years ago I bought myself my 2010 997.2 C4S. Last year I bought myself my dream car, an original owner 1985.5 944, 100 original except head unit, which I plan to replace it’s Porsche Classic. All records since new, including bill of sale and window sticker. I love it. And I wanted an early version, upgraded interior and NON turbo. But that is just me.

[@GTSCarLife]

Sounds like a perfect 944!

[@drivenmedia7332]

Can’t wait to get mine. I’ve always said that this car will take care of you if you take care of it.

[@GTSCarLife]

100%. Thanks for watching and best of luck with yours!

[@happyfox711]

Nice video. It's an urban legend about the trip counter(of course u CAN break it if u play with it too much, push it halfway in and grind the plastic teeth) I reset my trip counter 1001 times on an '83 while driving, never had a problem - besides if it breaks it doesn't have any bearing on the main counter. The reason why the main counter is a bad indicator on wear, is because it goes around on just 100.000.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching and for your feedback. Interesting insight! Have a great day!

[@pierremartin9048]

Good stuff.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching Pierre!

[@videomaniac108]

I daily drove a 944S in the 90s and it was a great car. It was just very important to keep up on the maintenance, especially changing the cam belt more frequently than the factory recommended.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching and for sharing your comments. It’s really remarkable how practical the 944 is! I’m guessing you changed more frequently as a safety precaution?

[@videomaniac108]

@@GTSCarLife I found out from bitter experience, with bent valves, that pushing a cam belt on that car beyond 25k miles is asking for trouble, even if it's been tensioned properly. The other model 944s may not have had this problem.

[@GTSCarLife]

I’m curious, was that a OEM belt?

[@videomaniac108]

@@GTSCarLife That's a good question. It was an OEM Porsche belt, as I saw the box it came in and knew it had been purchased from the parts dept at a local Porsche dealer.. It was installed by a highly reputable independent Porsche shop in San Diego after the belt that the car had on, at 55k miles, had broken shortly after I got it. I had researched the belt problem on this car to the shop owner and made sure that it was initially tensioned properly and retensioned after about 1500 miles. I also had some rollers that were a little loose and noisy replaced. Despite that, the belt broke again at 25k miles at an engine speed just slightly above idle at a stoplight. I don't remember the factory recommended belt change interval but I think it was somewhere around 45k miles.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thanks for sharing. I’ve never agreed with designing engines like this when engineers know of alternative designs that still offer the desired performance. You sound like you’re as attentive with your cars as I am. Not as many of us out there as there used to be. Have fun and stay safe, and thanks for watching!

[@CatamaxPor]

Great video with correct and detailed information! I have owned my '86 n/a for 13 years now, 6 of witch i used it as my daily driver and were the best years of my ownership. I also bought a 944 turbo and a 924 in the last 4 years, i hope never to sell any of them.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching and for your feedback! I agree, these are some of the best sports cars ever made. Porsche really delivered, and the 944 stands the test of time!

[@ralleyquattro]

Oh, those sport seats... none better out there!

[@GTSCarLife]

Always loved those seats!

[@tuomasholo]

The 944 still looks great today!

[@GTSCarLife]

It sure does!!! Thank you for watching!

[@ryans4633]

My first car back in 2004 and I loved it. It’s the one that got away

[@GTSCarLife]

I completely understand. I intend on keeping this one in the family forever. Thank you for watching and for sharing your thoughts!

[@timcasagrande944]

My first car was a 1984 944! Daily drove it for Two Years; it was very dependable. Then sold it to my brother. He now daily drives it (he is in high school). My second and current car is now a 2000 986 Boxster 2.7L :)

[@GTSCarLife]

That’s so awesome that your brother owns and still drives the car! I love that. My 17 year old son has been daily driving this one for 2 years and the 944 has proven to be a very special, beautiful, well built and reliable car. Thanks for watching and for your comments!!!

[@harryaxford530]

@@GTSCarLife insurance must be very cheap where you live, here insurance for an 18 year old would write the car off.

[@GTSCarLife]

@Harry Axford I am in the Dallas Fort-Worth market. I bought the car in my name and insure it as one of mine, but with my 17 year old son having a drivers license and in fact daily driving it for the last 2 years, I’m sure they are charging me a premium based on his age. The saving grace is that until recently 944 values were so low that a total loss would amount to very little. As is usual, liability coverage is the bulk of the premium. It will be interesting to see what happens to policy rates now that values are increasing so drastically. Thank you for watching and for your comments!

[@kcinkg]

Good Tube

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching!

[@zestydude87]

ive owned my 86 turbo for 9 years now and its been very reliable. Only thing ive had to change was the alternator and the slave clutch cylinder. Its still very fast and a head turner. Cant see myself ever selling it or letting it go!

[@GTSCarLife]

They are amazing sports car! How many miles do you have so far? Thanks for watching, and for your feedback!

[@zestydude87]

@@GTSCarLife it's got 142,000 on it. Thinking about rebuilding the turbocharger over the winter...

[@GTSCarLife]

Just getting broken in! I love how these cars get driven and enjoyed! Thank you for answering and all the best to you and your 944!

[@kewlhunter7333]

Great video and love how you accurately researched the history. Well done. Totally agree with everything except one small thing. Not your fault though as it's been repeated so many times it's become folk lore but still not correct unfortunately and that is hitting trip meter reset while moving causes odometer to break and by the way Porsche did not design this to happen. The odometer breaks for only one reason and that's because the material Porsche used for one cog turns to mush over time. It breaks on all of them eventually. The mechanism has a clutch that engages when reset is hit, so whether you are moving or not, it cannot cause the odometer to break. I don't know how myth started but it's not true. Good advice on closing rear hatch with both hands evenly, as closing one handed or applying pressure unevenly, when closing, is the single reason they delaminate. Only other cause could be if one strut failed but have not heard of that happening.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for that! I was speaking tongue in cheek when I said they designed it to fail, but I do believe it was a design defect. Thank you for watching, and for your feedback!

[@gisleyber2s]

During the 90s all I drove were 944s; an '85, an '87, and a '90. Yes, they're great as everyday drivers.

[@GTSCarLife]

They sure are! Thank you for watching and for sharing your experience!

[@SplinterAce]

You are the man!

[@GTSCarLife]

You are kind. Thank you for watching!!!

[@dconthebay]

i own a 88 944 turbo s silver rose and its the nicest and best driving car ive ever owned

[@GTSCarLife]

That is a very rare and special trim for the 944 Turbo. A keeper! Thank you for watching and sharing your comments!

[@tycorcoran6965]

My S2 is nearly 190,000 and still wonderful

[@GTSCarLife]

I’m aware of many 944’s with over 200,000 miles that are still being used reliably, as daily drivers. Porsche really nailed it with the 944! Thanks for sharing, and for watching!

[@waynedawson4948]

Great video content. 1989 944, solid with inoperable odometer but regular care and feel keep me going. Car is nice and garaged. Any recommendation on timing belt replacement since i difficulty tracking mileage? Just curious thanks for any insight. Thanks for posting this content!

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching! You have to either use your best guess on milage or go based on time. I’m a big fan of being proactive. Better to spend a little more and know your car is up to date than defer and pay a much higher price later! Enjoy your 944!

[@DavidEvans_dle]

Really, really loved my Porsche.

[@GTSCarLife]

Porsche's have that effect on people. Which model did you have, and when did you sell it?

[@CountryCarReviews]

I own a 86 with original 15in Fuchs. I added sonny double din with Apple CarPlay

[@GTSCarLife]

How do you like the Sony unit? I’m considering installing the new Porsche unit but installation looks to be major work. I also installed the 15” factory Fuchs. They look amazing and I like the wider rears. Tires are still so limited. Went with BFG Comp T/As turned in. What tires did you install?

[@captaincoyote1792]

I am a proud owner of a 1990 S2 Cabriolet….it was a “gift to me” when I turned 50 the same year I was promoted to Navy Captain (O6). Mine is not a daily driver, as I live in New England…so she is stored from late fall to early spring. It has however, flawlessly taken me up and down the east coast, numerous times. I’m in my late 60s now, and tend NOT to work on my own cars….and I’ve been fortunate in finding reasonable “older” Porsche mechanics. Success in ownership? (1) buy the absolute best one that you can find - lowest mileage, proof of servicing, etc. (2) always, always ALWAYS pay for a PPI prior to buying, and don’t assume that a modern Porsche dealership can do an adequate PPI on older cars. (I,passed on three, before settling on mine!). And (3) keep up with the servicing per the recommended schedule. Other than that, slide on your sunglasses, put on some tunes made famous in old Miami Vice episodes, start her up, and have fun…! Oh yeah! Be prepared to talk about the car wherever you go…everyone seems to have a 944 memory, whether in reality, or through the late 80s-early 90s movies. Bravo-Zulu, we’ll done on this entertaining video! .

[@GTSCarLife]

First of all, Thank You for your service. Secondly, you are spot on. As with any car in general and Porsche specifically, always buy the best example you can find, maintain it as the manufacturer called for and enjoy! And yes, the reaction from passersby and enthusiasts alike to this car is incredible. Who knew?! Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts.

[@griffinvanderploeg9358]

i dailey my 89 944 s2, other than it burning a bit of oil and the occasional weird noise its pretty good.

[@GTSCarLife]

All 944 are exceptionally beautiful and fun to drive, but the later 16 valve engines of the S2 were complicated as compared with the original 2.5 liter, and more prone to issues. Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts!

[@edwardstrong1727]

yes its fun to drive love it i am member PCA just take care of mant

[@GTSCarLife]

100%. Taking care of and following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance is key to owning most fine automobiles, including Porsches. Thank you for watching and for your comments!

[@BillyBob-nq2cb]

STOP HYPING THIS CAR UP I DONT HAVE ENOUGH TO BUY ONE NOW LET ALONE AFTER PEOPLE SPIKE THE PRICES I BEG OF YOU

[@GTSCarLife]

I hear you, friend! Thanks for watching and for your comments!

[@hadrianaugustus5712]

What other parts should be replaced along with the timing and balancing belts if you don’t know the maintenance history? You hinted at it but didn’t tell.

[@GTSCarLife]

The belts are something you must do if you don’t know when they were last replaced. If you have a belt failure you literally lose your engine. Other good things to look at are the thermostat, power steering pump and various oil seals. What year is your 944, and how many miles do you have? Thanks for watching!

[@hadrianaugustus5712]

@@GTSCarLife haven’t bought one yet, waiting for a good one. Thanks for the reply!

[@bensanders7392]

To put the 1982 car price of $20k into perspective in todays dollars would have been equivalent to $63,225. Whereas the average new car price in that year was $6,406....or, adjusted for inflation $19,427. So this import beauty (even a lower model entry level car) would STILL be 3 times as much as a basic domestic model car. Even back then as they are today, they are always 3 times as much as the average car.

[@GTSCarLife]

This car stickered at $27,110, certainly not an inexpensive car! Thank you for watching!

[@tromsi]

Should I get one for my first car? I live in Finland so the winter gets cold around here but they are fairly cheap and really like the look on them

[@GTSCarLife]

They are great, except they do not get much traction in wet and snowy conditions. Thanks for watching!

[@eeeeeeeeeeeeeeee78]

A 1998 Ford Explorer is a great daily driver, but I still want a 1988 Porsche 944😛

[@GTSCarLife]

There is no substitute. Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts!

[@luizalmeida9399]

'89 Porsche 944 turbo hw turbo comentários 212

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching!

[@miguelcastaneda7236]

friends have them all over 300,000 miles wear well gravel pitting lower chin.and bolster of drivers seat...just regular maintence timeing belt.. cheap..adjust valves..easy .oh yes all see the track and autocross too

[@GTSCarLife]

That’s awesome to hear! Don’t you wish Porsche still made cars like this! Thank you for watching, and for sharing your comments!

[@miguelcastaneda7236]

@@GTSCarLife my 928 has 240,000..and 931 71,000 miles

[@datsoon9236]

I have an 89' BMW 325i. I'm wondering how it stacks up with the 944, because they seem to be very similiar cars performance wise

[@GTSCarLife]

My race car was based on a 1998 E36 M. They drive quite differently. The newer BMW feels more direct and responsive but also you are sitting up much higher. Both are great cars. Thank you for watching!

[@datsoon9236]

@@GTSCarLife that's awesome. Makes sense. Of course!

[@midgetboy1791]

Your son was whipping this at the west parking garage in town square along with a white 5.0 and grey raptor 💀

[@GTSCarLife]

He needs a track day. Been suffering since he started daily driving a Focus RS, because that thing goes into limp mode after a lap and a half.... Thanks for watching, subscribing and contributing to the conversation.

[@joanasolas]

Hi, what is a compatible engine for the Porsche 944? I couldn’t find any parts here in the Philippines so please let me know what I can change it to.

[@GTSCarLife]

You mean a non factory engine? I always prefer to keep a car stock, especially something like a Porsche, but a popular modification is a Chevy LS engine swap. The LS is very reliable and and actually weighs even less. Thank you for watching!

[@shaunmcinnis566]

I had this same car.1987 944S . I always found it underpowered. If you but one, remember the belt has to be changed every 85 thousand and you might want to do the water pump while its opened.

[@GTSCarLife]

Water pump replacement is a good idea on any Porsche! Thank you for watching and for sharing your thoughts!

[@artmchugh5644]

Yes !!

[@GTSCarLife]

100%!

[@artmchugh5644]

@@GTSCarLife thanks for the video! ! I have a 86 turbo that was my driver for years " well my Ducati was my transportation and I have a 951 !!!!😄😄😄😄" the 951 has moved to the racetrack. We had a 85 911 coupe for 7 years , just sold that and I realized I had no Porsche to drive !!!!!! Two weeks ago I bought a 87 red 944 covered in moss very rusty brakes ect !! BUT !!! No dents ! Paint that will polish up !!! For 2 grand! 😎😎😎😎😎🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺 here is the track car !! Enjoy!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/pZKsipmcrNRkeqs

[@GTSCarLife]

Thats awesome! Sounds like you have owned some fun vehicles. Love it! Thanks for watching and for sharing.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thats awesome! Sounds like you have owned some fun vehicles. Love it! Thanks for watching and for sharing.

[@artmchugh5644]

@@GTSCarLife years back we had a 911 , sold it a couple of months ago to the guy in Arizona that we bought it from !!!! It was one of those " IF YOU EVER SELL THAT CAR LET ME KNOW FIRST !!." 😄😄 so we had the car 7 years, put 40 thousand miles on it , and sold it for a profit !!😎😎🇺🇸🇩🇪 check it out !!! Enjoy !! kzbin.info/www/bejne/h2irZ4doe7yDkKM

[@pepe7904]

I'm going to buy an '84 944 in alpine white with 150k km for 10k love that 80s style. Has this one left you stranded anytime?

[@GTSCarLife]

It has not. The thermostat switch got stuck on and we had to disconnect the battery so it wouldn’t keep running but it was an easy fix. This car gets driven every day and now has 55,000 miles! Thank you for watching and good luck with your new 944! Let me know how it goes!

[@pepe7904]

@@GTSCarLife Thanks thats great :D

[@motionelco]

I still can’t believe I beat one with my 00 extended can Silverado. Fontana , CA 1/4 mile .

[@GTSCarLife]

Don’t get too excited. Any Honda Civic can beat one in the 1/4 mile today. Different era and different purpose. Not too many cars will keep up on a road course track though! Thanks for watching.

[@allans7281]

I saw On a video the fuel lines are directly over the cylinder head is that typical for all the years? That would seem to be a hazard

[@GTSCarLife]

Fuel needs to get into the top of the cylinders, so yes, it is not uncommon and why it is critical you properly maintain any car. Driving an older car which has not been maintained, which definitely includes old fuel lines and such, is not a wise move! I’ve replaced all the fuel lines on the car in the video as well as other items that become aged over 35 years. If you can do most work yourself, you’ll find parts easy to locate and inexpensive. If you need to take it to a Porsche specialist, you’ll find the rates are the same as any other Porsche. At the end of the day, you can buy a newer Camry or Accord and have a fine appliance, or spend a little less to acquire and fully service a car like this 944 and drive something truly special every day. For auto enthusiasts like me it’s a no- brainer. I’d fall asleep at the wheel if I had to drive a boring car! As it is, the 944 is now appreciating and is a car that’s very special, fun to be in and a blast to own. I can’t go anywhere without thumbs up, smiles, shouted questions and comments from admirers. And this car is daily driven. For less than the price of a boring Camry or Accord. And properly maintained, these will easily go over 200,000 miles without a major overhaul. Thank you for watching and for your comments!

[@allans7281]

Thanks for your detailed reply I’ve always loved these cars especially when they came out in the mid 80s they are a very special car inside and out

[@GTSCarLife]

Agree. Makes two of us! More exciting video on the 944 coming!

[@alfredobojalil3571]

Thank you for your great video on your 944. I am also a 944 owner(1987 NA)Red. Are your rims 16 inch 7-52 front and rear? Thank you for your time...

[@GTSCarLife]

Guards Red on a 944 is just so classic! I love that color, but since this 944 is a daily driver, I wanted something a little less attention getting! The rims on this 944, both the phone dials seen and the Fuchs which it has now, are 15 inch wheels. I understand the optional 16 inch wheels were very rare. Thank you for watching and for your feedback!

[@patbojalil4454]

many thanks sir. I actually got a set of 16/7 and 16/8 rear as the option for that car and the turbo as standard.more of a choice on tires 210/55/16 front and 225/50/16 rear.currently on refurbishment to be powdercoated as per original colour.(phone dials)

[@GTSCarLife]

@@patbojalil4454 Indeed, better tire choices are available in that size! Those wheels are very difficult to find! You got lucky! Thanks for sharing. Let me know how it changes the handling.

[@patbojalil4454]

@@GTSCarLife handling is super,just did my first spring drive after a fresh oil change and still handles like new,such a well made car built to last as long well maintained.thanks again man!

[@GTSCarLife]

Yes, they are so reliable and durable! Mine is daily driven every day and never gives me any trouble. Porsche nailed it! Thanks for sharing and keep enjoying your beautiful Porsche!

[@stankakol5195]

Why did Porsche stop making the 944? It is a very attractive car!!

[@GTSCarLife]

I've always hoped Porsche would bring back a new 944. What a fantastic option that would be in the high performance sports car market! Unfortunately, it is much more cost effective for them to stick with the Cayman / Boxster, since they share much of their structure and components with the 911.

[@user-cb2lz8yy9s]

Excellent video! I have a 1983 NA. That white looks slick. I am also a big fan of the phone dial wheels. I have the cookie cutters.

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching, and for your feedback! The cookie cutters also look great. Let’s be honest - any 944 looks great! I’ve owned a lot of great sports cars starting with my 1984 VW GTI back in 1983, and I’ve never had a car that gets a more positive response wherever I go, than this one. Even video views are higher on this car than any other so far. At Cars and Coffee type events, people push right past my 997 GTS, Lambos and Ferrari’s to get up close to the 944. Truly a special sports car!

[@tashricksharaf8720]

Porsche stopped making it because they started to make the Porsche 968.

[@GTSCarLife]

The 968 was actually just a new year of 944, intended to be called the 944 S3, but at the last minute Porsche decided to give it a new name in hopes of getting more attention and increased sales. The reason Porsche stopped making the 944/968 was because it is cheaper for them to build their entry level model (Boxster/Cayman) off the 911 platform rather than build separate rear and front engines platforms. Thank you for watching!

[@stijnVDA1994]

is one of these nice of a simple cruiser when they are no longer taxed?

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching!

[@GerbilNoises]

I'm not very educated on repairing cars .. but I have a pretty simple question. If I were to take this to some small town shop for any sorta regular maintenance, would they understand how to fix whatever the issue may be..or it is it more .. " foreign " for lack of a better word.

[@GerbilNoises]

aka is the motor a simple and easy to understand common setup, or is it complicated and unusual for most.

[@GTSCarLife]

Good question and thank you for watching! Older Porsches, maybe except for the 928, are fairly simple and easy enough to work on, provided you have the specific tools and knowledge. I would not want to take my Porsche to a shop, small town or large, that didn’t specialize in working on Porsches. There’s even a difference between the older models and today’s newer ones. If you are not handy with things like that, and don’t have the tools or means to lift the car up, and there is not a Porsche specific shop in your area, I probably would not recommend one to you. Hope this helps!

[@GerbilNoises]

@@GTSCarLife May just have to learn to get my hands dirty 😅. I've always wanted one of these things but I've never been much into the mechanical workings of a car. Maybe someday tho 🤷🏼‍♂️. Thanks for the help by the way

[@Srathy]

Hello! Someone is selling me this car (automatic transmission) for $3k 70,000miles and was wondering if it’s a good first car? I don’t know anything about cars but really love the design of the 944, Thank you!

[@GTSCarLife]

Hi! A well maintained 944 is a reliable and great first car. The automatic is less desirable and honestly less fun. Make sure to have an experienced Porsche mechanic do an inspection for you before you buy! Thanks for watching!

[@MasterArmedforces]

So are you saying that the inexplicable odometer kill means that if Im searching for a 944 & find one with low miles, the odometer will be non functional?

[@GTSCarLife]

No, it means you’ll want to make sure the odometer is working as you test drive the car, and that documents (and CarFax) support the mileage. Just as with any car! Thanks for watching!

[@jamesdunn9714]

I am going to take a look at a 1983 944 with 63, 000 miles. If it has maintenance records and provable mileage I may purchase the car.

[@GTSCarLife]

Records are very important for not only value, but also so you’ll know what’s been done along the way. Keep in mind, most maintenance items will time out before they mile out. Let me know what happens! Thanks for the update!

[@linkedup7346]

I had a 1987 944 NA India red with white interior. Although it was a wonderful handler because of the balance of the transaxle design, it really lacked power. Even after a few simple upgrades to add low end torque, it still did not get out of its own way. There was an issue with the drive train that always made the car sound like a helicopter while downshifting around corners. What a way to destroy the Porsche experience??? I paid 4500 for it and sold it for 5000 3 years later. These cars are just as expensive to maintain as any Porsche. I do miss the car because it was comfortable and really felt solid. The 1985 Corvette I replaced it with blows it out of the water.

[@GTSCarLife]

Sounds like you bought a poorly maintained example. Your experience is not at all typical. The typical 944 is very reliable and parts are both readily available and inexpensive. I’m happy you enjoyed your Corvette. Thanks for watching.

[@tuktuxedo8835]

I found one for $3700 but it has low water flood damage is it worth it if I have to do repairs down the road?

[@GTSCarLife]

No. I would never recommend any flood damaged car. Thank you for watching and good luck with your search!

[@chrishultgren777]

Bought a turbo S for 40 grand off the showroom floor in 1987. Back then Porche was a big deal.

[@GTSCarLife]

The “good old days!” Thanks for watching!

[@Chrisovideos]

3 years into my '84. It's my daily summer driver and I put about 6000 miles on her per summer. Only maintenance I've had to do so far is oil changes. Added 930 16" Fuchs, Koni adjustable front shocks, 250lbs springs and the turbo sway bar. Corners on rails.

[@GTSCarLife]

I’ve added the Turbo sway bars and the factory 15” Fuchs. How has the ride changed with the uprated springs? Thank you for your comments, and for watching!

[@Chrisovideos]

​@@GTSCarLife Doesn't seem to affect normal road driving in terms of comfort, but when you get a bit aggressive on the corners it really keeps the car flat. I have the Konis set to about 1/3 of the way up from the softest setting. Front sway bar is from the turbo, rear is stock. I read somewhere that that was the way to go with the wider rear wheels.

[@GTSCarLife]

Awesome, thank you Christopher! I replaced the shocks with stock a little while back but immediately felt that was probably a mistake. Have a great day!

[@jked7463]

Orrrrrr,,, you can gat a end of series miata NC (club sport for better cornering) for also a very analog experience with very similar performance, better reliability, lower repair costs, excellent durability, virtually unlimited after market upgrades (even LS swaps), fix by most any mechanic, was designed to run on alcohol gas, a blast to drive and low cost with one thing no 944 ever had, a convertible top. If your counter is that the 944 has 4 seats, I challenge you to get someone older than 6 in one of those rear seats. If you want more trunk, make sure it does not have the Bose stereo. No, it is not as exotic but, then to it's favor, it is not an exotic.

[@GTSCarLife]

I worked for Mazda for 5 years (1995-1999) and occasionally drove Miatas as my company vehicle in between gen 3 RX-7’s and Millenia S’. I agree, the Miata is a fantastic car and also an excellent choice for a spec racer. The ability to LS swap as you pointed out does not appeal to me, and is something many 944 owners have done as well. So no plus there. At the end of the day, both the Miata and 944 are great cars. Totally different experiences. One provides that magical German handling experience as well as arguably one of the sexiest and most beautiful sports car shapes of modern time, and the other shows that the Japanese can build a better British roadster than the Brits. Personally I am not a convertible person, so the 944 gets my vote. And at 6,3”, I can’t even fit into a new Miata. Thank you for watching, and for your comments!

[@jked7463]

@@GTSCarLife I agree with the LS swap. I only mentioned it because in today's insane horsepower wars, the miata's lack of 5 million horsepower comes up. The 2.5 liter mazda swap (just that bit more torque) intrigues me though. I am a big keep the power and brand the same kind of person. As far as height goes, I am 6'-1" and I fit in the miata as long as it is manual seats. The power sears are higher off of the floor. As far as convertibles go, being that I spend alot of time in north GA, wouldn't drive without one. The NC was the stiffest miata to that point. My 88 5.0 LX mustang hatch was more flexible than my NC miata. Never drove a 944 but would love too. From what I understand the Miata and the 944 have one other thing in common, a great manual transmission.

[@GTSCarLife]

@@jked7463 They are both momentum cars with great chassis, so yes, a similar kind of car. Just different flavors. Funny that you had an ‘88 LX 5.0. I had a 1987 Mustang GT 5.0 that I ordered new to replace my ‘84 VW GTI. I sold the Mustang after a year and a half. Great power and a nice manual transmission but paint and brakes back then were a real Ford weakness. It’s always fun chatting with a fellow car guy!

[@jked7463]

@@GTSCarLife I have a friend who still has his 87 gt since new. I am a corner guy not a 0-60 guy. Because of that I waited a year to get the 88 because they repositioned the pedals for good toe and heel footwork. I also liked the LX because it weighed +/- 100 pounds less which effectively made the springs just that little bit stiffer, again for better cornering. Previously I had an LTD II with handling package which I did a +1 on the wheels and tires. The rear axle would rotate/twist in on the curves (I know not a sports car) which made conquering curves a real accomplishment. The 4 rear shocks on the mustang were great at reducing the rotate/twist action for more stable cornering as you modulated the power through the curve. The car could actually take medium to large curves quite well. I could place it in a nice accurate arc/mini-drift the whole way through the curve, especially sweepers. I used to call it the "guardrail scraper" because I could repeatedly place the car so well. Everyone always shoved the mustangs into the drag race box. But I always though it was the true embodiment of a GT (grand tourismo) car. It could eat up mile after mile at high speeds without breaking a sweat. Very true about the brakes. At 175,000 miles (original clutch) I crashed the car on a highway in rush hour traffic when a driver up ahead jambed on his brakes and all of the cars behind him scattered. I didn't have enough brakes and nowhere to go on the crowded road so I ended up against the armco barrier. I currently have a 2016 mustang (convertible) with V-6 because of less weight on front tires and I don't need 5 million horsepower to go around corners (& regular gas & better gas milage & lower insurance) . No, the chassis is no where near as stiff as the miata but it has IRS and a back seat for my grandson. Great talking with you. Just subscribed. Looking forward to watching more videos.

[@stankakol5195]

What are your thoughts about an LS swap?

[@GTSCarLife]

I hear they work great. Can you imagine how wicked a 944 would be with an LS? In fact, I just purchased Fuchs from a 944 owner who did the swap and needs bigger wheels. But I like to keep my cars stock, so it’s not something I would do. I enjoy the balance between power, handling and braking that Porsche builds into their cars. If you do one, please share the results!

[@bobdearborn3130]

Now I'm deciding on either a low mileage 86 928 or an 86 944 with 45000 miles.

[@GTSCarLife]

Well, they are both cool cars, but whereas the 944 is simple and reliable, the 928 is very complex and expensive to maintain and repair. It is something to account for unless you have an unlimited budget and lots of patience. Also, most people feel the 944 is the better looking car so demand and values will reflect that. Thank you for watching and for your comments. Please let me know what you decide!

[@1bye4bye9]

You say the trip odometer can easily be broken, reflecting lower than normal mileage. Are you taking about the trip odometer or the actual odometer? The destination would seem to matter.

[@GTSCarLife]

The actual vehicle mileage odometer. A large percentage of 944’s have TMU because it has been broken. Thank you for watching and for your comments!

[@ricoxxx1849]

#PorscheNoSubstitute944

[@GTSCarLife]

Thank you for watching! #KillsBugsFast

[@AdrianJayeOnline]

let me save you 13 minutes of your life, shirt answer is "YES" I had one, 944 s2 cab

[@GTSCarLife]

944 cabriolets are very rare. Thanks for watching!

[@welles28]

Having owned both a 944 and a 300ZX Twin Turbo in period, my guidance would be that 30-plus year old cars will be challenging daily drivers at best. That said, and assuming that you can find clean examples (a VERY big caveat at this late date), from both a performance and operating cost perspective, you will be MUCH happier with the Z.

[@GTSCarLife]

I was working for a large Nissan dealer when the 300ZX was being sold new am very familiar with how they drove at their best. The 944 is exceptionally well balanced and drives in the way that has made German sports cars in general, and Porsches specifically, so desirable. The Nissan ZX never handled well. The back end was too light with too much weight upfront, and they were very unbalanced. Also, they just felt tinny and the interior styling felt rather low rent. They were also prone to rust, so knowing both vehicles very well, I would absolutely have to pick the Porsche 944. Also, my now 18-year-old son has been daily driving and tracking this very 944 since he turned 15, and the car that only handles beautifully but has been exceptionally reliable. Yes, you need to make sure you are buying a properly maintained and clean example, but that goes for about any car I can think of. Thank you for watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@jockellis]

I would always want two cars and I’ve had a 944 withM030 front sway bar. But my main car is a supercharged Buick.

[@GTSCarLife]

I added that sway bar as well. Thanks for watching!

[@zakpr2978]

Nice :) Possible to sit in backseat?

[@GTSCarLife]

No. Not at all! Thank you for watching!

[@zakpr2978]

@@GTSCarLife not even for an hour or so? if youre a bit short and the person in front takes the seat forward?

[@GTSCarLife]

I really don’t see it. Unless you’re a little kid. Or you have no legs. Even then, it’s really best for Knick knacks. It’s far less useful than the design in the 911, but you at least have that large hatch area that a 911 does not.

[@bensanders7392]

The Cold War was still going on, so Germany was still separated E and W. I....wonder how much this import would have cost upgrade compared to a similar domestic name brand car at the time??

[@GTSCarLife]

Porsches always get a premium.

[@FueledBy.Passion]

Yes it is! The 924 evolving and renamed as the 944 would go on in evolution up to the 968. And don't just let anyone work on it. Not every Porsche mechanic know these cars like the back of their hand. These are cars the work, run and perform in a specific way, even though we scratch our heads thinking, now why the heck did Porsche engineers designed this ?

[@GTSCarLife]

Very true! Thank you for watching and for your comments.

[@williet3978]

nine four four, nine two four, nine two eight.

[@GTSCarLife]

Not nine one one. Thanks for watching!

[@billymania11]

Porsche is a strange and bizarre story about a manufacturer that stuck with an inferior car platform. With an enormous amount of money, Porsche got that rear-engine design to work well. They are left with a car model that is very expensive to produce and consequently has a high price tag. It's madness but through clever marketing and some mirrors, they make it viable. I drive a BMW coupe which is much more affordable and fun. I still tip my hat to the Porsche guys but man, they pay a lot for their privilege.

[@GTSCarLife]

True enough! Ironically, Porsche itself tried so hard in the 70’s and 80’s to change their ways, but it was Porsches own customers who rejected the newer, dynamically superior layout in favor of the rear engine layout. Nostalgia sells Porsches. When I built my race car, I used a 1998 BMW E36 M chassis as my base. That platform makes for a very predictable and robust race car chassis! Having said that, I too love the unique design that is the 911, and intend to own and drive my 997.2 GTS forever. Thank you for watching, and for sharing your thoughts!

[@scourgeofbloodclan3986]

What BMW coupe is it? E36, e46, e90?

[@billymania11]

@@scourgeofbloodclan3986 M2

[@scourgeofbloodclan3986]

@@billymania11 Nice! I've always dreamt of owning one, really pretty cars!

[@billymania11]

@@scourgeofbloodclan3986 I'm not a rich guy but the M2 looked to be a really good sport car so I purchased it. The payments are high but so is the enjoyment.

[@lorivale3512]

1973 MGB..........

[@GTSCarLife]

Let’s see if I can find one!

[@hertzair1186]

944’s were built by Audi...back then only 911 & 928 were built by Porsche in Stuttgart.

[@GTSCarLife]

Actually, the metal bodies were built at Audi, but the cars were in fact assembled in Stuttgart. Porsche and many other manufacturers contract some, or all of their assembly needs, to deal with capacity limitations of their existing factories, as well as keep costs down. Thank you for watching, and for your comments!

[@hertzair1186]

GTS Car Life : Thank you for the clarification...I presumed they where entirely assembled by Audi at Neckarsulm

[@GTSCarLife]

@@hertzair1186 Easy mistake - there is so much misinformation out there for decades now! Thanks for your reply!

[@paulhunter123]

daily reliable sports car would be a toyota mr2 or a honda crx

[@GTSCarLife]

I drove both of those as company vehicles when they were new back in the day. They were great little cars, but not in the same class as a Porsche. They are however reliable and cheap! Thank you for watching and for your thoughts!

[@paulhunter123]

@@GTSCarLife not in the same class? are we just talking badge here?

[@GTSCarLife]

No Paul. Just being straight up. They didn’t compete on the showroom floor and they don’t compete for the same buyers now. If you don’t own a Porsche, you don’t understand. That’s not putting any other car down, it’s just stating a fact. And as I said, I worked for Honda and Toyota and had those exact cars as my company vehicles when they were new. They were great little cars. But there is so much engineering that goes into making a Porsche the most incredible and durable high performance cars in their class. And that’s why they almost always win track contests and races. I also race and instruct. I am very aware of the differences. Again, no put down for any other vehicle. If Porsche’s weren’t engineered and built the way they are, they wouldn’t have the incredible respect form buyers, race car drivers and enthusiast publications that they do for the last 72 years. Thanks for your comments!

[@paulhunter123]

@@GTSCarLife well ive had a 924 the honda crx was better in everway and worth more today so i dont really feel yer passion for a cheap porsche with costly parts

[@GTSCarLife]

924 is mostly VW and yes, not very good. 944 is entirely different car from the body, real Porsche engine, suspension and more. And honestly, parts are not expensive. The most expensive part of owning any old Porsche is labor rates for those who don’t do it themselves, because shops still charge the same hourly rate. Try to drive a nice 944 sometime. They are still really a fun and special cars to own and drive, even after 35 years! Have a great day.

[@Josh-hw7dx]

Sir thats a no parking zone.

[@GTSCarLife]

I was standing, not parking! Funny you bring that up - my friend who watched the video when it first debuted commented that some people would complain about that! I was not blocking anything - I was in a parking lot at a private country club. It took almost 41,000 views but I guess he was right. Thank you for watching and for your comments!

[@jensoncremasco3352]

These are over 20k in Australia

[@GTSCarLife]

They are climbing here as well. So few clean examples left, and universally loved! Thank you for watching, and for your feedback.

[@OnPointFirearms]

Prices are crazy here in the US also. It's funny, the best bang for buck right now is the 997. Prices aren't crazy yet, but I'm sure they'll get there too.

[@evanfinch4987]

Well, it can't reliably pass 15-year-old Honda Odysseys on the road, we know that about the N/A 944.

[@GTSCarLife]

My 38 year old 944 says differently. And no Odyssey will ever be fun to drive! Thanks for watching

[@fiza5403]

but im a car GIRL ...

[@GTSCarLife]

Girls rock! Yes, there are fewer girls in Motorsports, but I’ve met some who are excellent! They tend to be even more detail oriented. If it’s something you want to accomplish, go for it!!! Thank you for watching.