So Good Porsche Were Forced To Sabotage It - 944 Turbo

[@Number27]

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[@fryertuck6496]

Drove one of these home for a guy who had 1 too many back then. As I drove down a country road I knew well in Ireland he noticed that I knew the potholes and camber changes and said "You know this road well?" "Driven it a thousand times" I answered. "I can see that, go on then." "You sure" 'Yea gwan." What a drive! The handling was sublime and he laughed his head off as we roller coasted down that lane. "Boy you know this road better than me and I live here!" Little did he know it was my favourite road and I'd go there for a fast night time drive. It was religion to take every new car and bike I got there and I knew the perfect line for every corner and just how fast I could take them. Never forget a long right hand bend with a left and a sneaky kink right on the end of it. I knew from experience that I could stay full power through the 2nd bend and come out straight if I took a perfect line with a little slide. On the way in he thought we were done and said "F**k! Woah oh YES YES gwan kid no way!" as I managed to make the perfect exit. As a 20yr old it was the perfect drive and I was buzzing for days. Never felt the same driving that road in anything else after that though. Bittersweet.

[@EBMproductions1]

Older cars man they just felt better, near 2010 that feeling died in cars this is why our Porsche 944 feels great and same with my 1990s corolla, old but gold. ❤

[@fryertuck6496]

@@EBMproductions1 I'm currently looking for a clean Volvo 850 or V70. That will be my next wheels.

[@PanduhCJ]

Thanks for this, just reading it made me smile man.

[@tegknox2694]

This should not be your only written piece. It's transported me for a moment..

[@davidsf101]

I have a 1989 944 Turbo with only 75k miles. It runs so smoothly and feels great to drive. This is one of my favorite cars of all time. The prices also keep going up.

[@hoobaguy]

I'd sell it and buy an Esprit turbo.

[@nutsackmania]

@@hoobaguy yikes

[@n9909e]

I had a Turbo-S, he left off one of the most important features of the "S" - the Turbo Cup brakes. The wastegate problem was easily solved by using a "boost machine" that fooled the wastegate into thinking the boost was lower. It would pull massively all the way to redline in 5th, still pulling at the rev limiter. Compared to the 911's off/on turbo, it was a dream to drive.

[@jesterokjones4954]

The 911's of the same era were fucking scary, my uncle had one and sold it after it tried to kill him twice, lol.

[@timlamay4281]

It's not hard to cut and weld the mounting for the 911 4piston calipers. The rear bolt right up. Both front and rear will fit inside the factory 15in cookie cutters. Thats how mine is set up. With the thinner rotors an aluminum heat sink can fit between pads and pistons. Never had fade from this set up. Noy sure about radial mounted calipers.

[@MrFlazz99]

The feel of old-school turbocharging is unbeatable. When learning to drive in the '80s I had the opportunity to practice in my Dad's Renault 18 Turbo (yes - far inferior to a Porker) and the way that it felt when pushing on through the boosting zone (the noise and the way that the car literally picked itself up and threw itself down the road) - was addictive. I'm a diesel man nowadays and there are some great turbodiesels around, but you don't get the same sense of 'no-no-no-YESSSSS' as with the old petrol turbos.

[@althejazzman]

My modified turbo diesel van gives this old school feel. It is quite old though, and very modified!

[@patricks8144]

The 944 is Totally underrated. Great video 👍

[@jaredschroeder]

not for much longer!

[@ibassnote]

I saw one parked in Brooklyn on the street a few months ago. I was struck by how cool it looked and how small it was. Back in the day I thought the flares were massive but they are quite refined and demure. I think the design has held up incredibly well. Also love the 924, such a cool little car.

[@anthonyriche552]

I was close to buying a 924 back in the day. I test-drove it zipping up and down Jamaica Avenue in Queens and when I returned to the lot my wife said, "you aren't buying that car!" Lol. Needless to say I still regret missing out on it.

[@ibassnote]

@@anthonyriche552 friends father bought a brand new silver one. I remember my exact kid thought at the time…he’s definitely having an affair. Hahaha?! I guess it looked so cool I just assumed he was living a sexy life or something

[@dudenamedclem]

My absolute favorite classic Porsche ever, thank you for doing this video! Love you, Jack!

[@benpenagonzales6014]

A white 944 turbo was the longest toy I kept. Until I had kids and it was broken.

[@panvomacka9079]

@@benpenagonzales6014 I still have my 944, although N/A. I love it as it is, lightweight, stock, with standard suspension, as the Car God intended :-) It is so much fun and i don't miss 1hp on our tiny shitty roads in CZ :-D But I have kids as well so i understand. No time to maintain or drive it. And i have another 924 supercharged track project in the garage, that i dont have time for :,-| I will only sell them when i am fired, broke, divorced and homeless :-D

[@nicholascarter2640]

I used to work for Avis sport/luxury car hire in Belgravia. Was able to take home anything that wasn’t out on rent, Mercs, RR, Porsche, etc. This was usually my choice. Drove it faster than anything else as it felt so planted at very high speeds

[@thomashumber9762]

exactly...seriously dymamic...super quick without drama... err yes I had a lot of them in the 80s

[@BBFCBBFC-fc2ub]

I have a Silver Rose that I collected late one January night and drove on misty, damp empty A roads from Derbyshire to Dorset - what a machine. Chipped and modified to give ~300bhp I think its an absolute weapon on the right road. Astonishing as it is to drive, there is little drama, it just goes..and goes..and goes.... I also have a 928GT and whilst it's not as Agile as the 951, it has much more muscle and sense of occasion with that V8 growl and power delivery. Lucky to have both and no intention of getting rid of either!

[@darrensimons1529]

Just bought a S2 and I'm in love with both the way it looks and the way it drives.

[@daveglover6115]

Well done, you will enjoy it! I had a late model S2 - get a short shifter (944online) mod, Koni sports and 968 comp front springs. Check the top cam chain too...!

[@A9XXC]

I have 3 x S2s, my wife uses one a her only car, I normally drive one except to work and we have a cabriolet, they are great cars.

[@AlanShirtsink]

Have a S2 cab that I will never sell. Great car

[@ThomasDoubting5]

Love the 944

[@egolysergic8499]

Same, my father had one before I got my license. It's always been my favorite.

[@k3V2181]

Lol spoken like someone who never driven a 911

[@egolysergic8499]

@@k3V2181 Love for a car is subjective. Did you ever drive a Koenigsegg?

[@johnm3907]

Especially with the klu klux clan turbo

[@gregorythomas4470]

I owned two, one was nearly identical to the one you’re driving. Mine had a brown interior. In the late 90s these were sought after as track car builds. They were infinitely tunable and reasonable to obtain. Of the many cars I’ve owned I miss my 951s the most.

[@benwilkins2998]

If the 944 was any brand other than Porsche, it would have been legendary.

[@rogerwatt3154]

I was a professional car photographer back in the 70s and 80s and, having driven all the Porsches that were around in those days, I found the trans-axle models excellent cars. Derek Bell's favourite car was his 924 Carrera GT and Jackie Stewart thought that the 928 was the best car of its day when the S came along. Having owned both trans-axle Porsches and 911s as daily drivers though, I have to say that there was just that special something about the 911s and I miss my 1978 SC Sport more than any other car I've owned.

[@uselessoldman7964]

The 928 S manual was by far the best 928 model of them all I also owned the S2 and later a couple of the S4s (GT GTS) but I always considered the S as the model to own, it had less to go wrong and I still think it was the fastest !!

[@scottsterry8119]

Miss my ‘82 SC as well.

[@d.e.b.b5788]

My 1986.5 928S was to me, an absolutely almost perfect car to drive. Working on the back of that relay/fuse panel was a nightmare, though; all the wires were the same color gray, and not marked at all.

[@333pg333]

There is no doubt that the 911 (especially old air cooled versions) were extremely tactile and involving. Thing was that you only had to go 60mph to feel like an F1 driver. The transaxle cars were much better balanced and had the potential to be quite a lot faster on the hwy, twisty roads or the race track. At the same time that the 930 was capable of about 160mph, the 944t was faster in a straight line and through medium to high speed turns. The rear engine 911's were always fast out of a corner. But that wasn't enough. However the 911 is a unique product and well worthy of it's place in history. Pity the 944t wasn't recognised for it's performance let alone potential.

[@farginicehole513]

​@@uselessoldman7964When you say S, do you mean the US-spec 32V 5.0, or the S2 16V 4.7 Euro twin dizzy?

[@tedtufte2158]

A friend sold me his 1987 944 Turbo, it was white just like this one but it had the oxblood interior. Most comfortable car I have ever driven a long distance, once my 6"4" frame got in. Once in however, it fit like a glove; the only drawback was when I was getting out, that was cumbersome. The car wonderfully "woke up" when you approached 90 mph, it was breathtaking handling; second gear would push you back in the seat, I got her to 165 before you could feel the restriction. I was informed I could reconfigure the exhaust restriction but I figured why mess with the life of the motor, 250bhp was more than adequate for a car that weighed 2600 lbs. Most fun car, by far, that I've ever owned.

[@paulgoyette8222]

Jack, Let’s not forget the 1-2-3 Class win at LeMans for the BF Goodrich 944 with a seventh overall because the car was fast, but it just kept running, all other makes were breaking down, but not the 944CGT!

[@henrikberg1511]

I have an 86 with the same upgraded turbo and stage 2 tuning. Really quick and nimble car. Love mine and couldn’t agree with you more in this review. Great channel to follow 👍

[@DavidJones-cf6ph]

Great review Jack - apologies for the length of this anorak post - I lusted after one of these when at college in Cambridge back in the early eighties after seeing a Guards Red one constantly being driven around the city. What I didn’t realise was that that was actually a 924 Carrera GT - however in 1985 I was lucky enough to be able to afford a new 944 and went off to AFN in Guildford who at the time had a showroom in the back streets that would accommodate about 4 cars!!! - unlike the glass and steel luxury dealership they have today - the only 944 demonstrator they had was a secondhand Auto - and the sales manager (Nigel) looked disdainfully at me but reluctantly took me out for a drive saying that there was a problem with their insurance and they could not allow me to drive it!! - Anyhow I went home determined to prove that I could afford one and promptly ordered it over the phone - not a good idea as I ended up with most of the options list on the invoice (including a passenger door mirror and LSD) - anyhow a few months later my Guards Red 944 arrived and I enjoyed many years of fun with it - however the itch for a 924 Carrera GT never left me and 28 years ago I came across one being advertised by a dealer, again near Guildford - I went over and he told me it was a 924 Turbo with a body kit - the last one he had sold was green (all of the 75 proper UK 924 CGT’s were either Black, Red or Silver)- I realised what it was haggled him down to about £9k and still have that car today…. Unlike the 944 the 924 CGT has no power steering and thus has much more feel and feedback it has 210bhp, 0-60 in around 6.5 seconds and is so much fun to actually play with - I am very fortunate to have some other faster and much more powerful cars but cannot exploit their capabilities one the road in the same way that i can in the CGT. I also have a few base 924s including a turbo and a race prepped one and feel that the whole range is much underrated. I took my CGT to a local Porsche Club meeting a few months ago and hardly anyone knew what it was, as it was the only transaxle car there - I then took it to the Le Mans Classic and got mobbed in the car park!!

[@freedomvigilant1234]

I think Sir Clive Sinclair owned a Porsche. The only thing is I cannot remember if it was a 924 or 944.

[@simodthebod4256]

Absolutely love this series of quirky cars and their history. Well done Jack 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@eoinosullivan2636]

Brave man, Jack, flogging a car on that road! Love the 944 turbo, great review. Owners know how great they are, a pity that they are underappreciated in the wider car world.

[@Number27]

Couldn't agree more! Thanks for watching Eoin!

[@johnandrews3568]

The 944 was IMO such a game changer but I always loved the 924 body shape as I find it a more clean design. That's why IIRC the 924S was the car to have as it had the 924 body but the 944 engine (non turbo). Then again the 968 is just a monster in looks and performance. Loving the cars you're selecting Jack. Keep it up, mate.

[@bernhardtsuballa5341]

Agree! But the 924s are'nt really much faster than the 2Ltr. 924. Ok 125 is less than 150HP, but the 2Ltr. engine can be tuned quite simple. You can change the throttle by the Audi 100 5Zyl. throttle! And there is a hot camshaft made by Schrick. Both together gives you more than 15HP in addition. So on Autobahn the 2Ltr. can beat the 924s. But for me the main reason to take the "old" 2Ltr. version are the cheap spare parts! Especially the timing beld can be changed in the 2Ltr.-version very cheap and fast.

[@johnandrews3568]

@@bernhardtsuballa5341 or just do an engine swap with a turbo. :) Light weight + fast engine = faster car. And as you say, the other parts are cheap.

[@bernhardtsuballa5341]

@@johnandrews3568 Yes a turbo could boost the power up to 170 (177) HP. But the 924 turbo have had totally different breaks and wheels. In fact we will have problems to pass the official inspection body. Anyway. in my eyes these cars are made for average speed of 160km/h / 100 miles/h. Not more.

[@TheMrFishnDucks]

Awesome car. Nice to see the owner fixed the wastegate leak. Thank you for showing this car. Keep up the good work.

[@DJWenlowe]

Well done for featuring the 944 turbo; I have always loved them and the early 220bhp model was an absolutely superb car to drive. Compared to the 250bhp model they didn't require you to get over 4k revs to really get moving. They're a great car and can be daily driven with no issues whatsoever. They eat up miles and are really comfortable. They're an unsung hero in the Porsche world but definitely a very esoteric choice 👍👍

[@RUfromthe40s]

unsung ?it was the most popular Porshe car in the 80´s

[@DJWenlowe]

@@RUfromthe40s It's all about context, the 944 turbo was an amazing car but it never got the love (even from Porsche) that the 911 got. The 911 was celebrated by Porsche during every anniversary, the 944 simply wasn't. This is particularly ironic because from a financial perspective , the 924 / 944 range saved the company from bankruptcy in the 80s.

[@RUfromthe40s]

@@DJWenlowe yes but the 911 model is the main car from the company and yes when people stoped buying 911´s because everybody was sick of the design and the new cars with this designation allthough the carrera was considered a 911 but in reality was the 930 in production for a lot of years ,at least that i remenber than there was the first water coolded engine that the ones who wanted more of the same didn´t agreed to see the "911" with a water cooled engine, but what to do and yes new models at the time had success ,now people talk of them like it didn´t matter and the 90´s carrera 4 ,i remenber for some reason not feeling atracted by it´s design but the first time i drove it ,i had to buy one and i did a spectacular 4x4 .A woman i knew worked in Egipt and instead of buying a regular 4 wheel drive like a Jeep she also bought the carrera 4 to drive most of the days on dirt roads and not forget that porshe did win some real Paris-Dakar in the 80´s wich were "at your own risk competition"some drivers in the 80´s and earlier did disapear and never were found

[@DJWenlowe]

@@RUfromthe40s You sound very passionate about the range and rightfully so. That's the thing about Porsche, they have a range of cars that bring out the enthusiasm in all of us. Long may it continue 👍👍

[@DJWenlowe]

@@jmccoy96jm Sorry but I think you need to do your homework. There was indeed an early 220bhp turbo which in the UK was a 1986 model, later models were 250bhp and I can assure you that they drive very differently.

[@dantheman7357]

Hello Jack, I have owned two models of the Porsche 944 and learned to love them both. I miss them!! I was going to move on to the 944S for the engine and then the 968 but never quite got around to it. I really regret that . Your assessments of the 944/968 series is so completely right on. I felt like it was me talking throughout! I once took my Mother on her first Porsche drive and kept bouncing the engine off its 7000 RPM rev-limiter. When we got home she said...........are you hungry? ! . Great review and it brought back memories of sunny days in the curves. Thanks.

[@mattbrown1913]

I’ve had 3 so far. Excellent daily driver. Simple to maintain in the driveway. I would love to have another one someday. They used to be cheap and readily available- those days are gone.

[@itspart]

I have to agree I had one 25 years ago and was underwhelmed at day to day driving. It never felt enything special. But I had an Escort Costworth at a similar time and it was amazing in every way....

[@TheJagjr4450]

I had a 1986 951 while I was in college 1992-1995. It had the short throw arm on the shifter and adjustable wastegate which would boost 2 BAR. I loved the car and it handled so nicely.

[@davidstuart4915]

Hi Jack, I had the limited edition 'motorsport' variant, the 758 Silver Rose for a number of years Despite looking like it was sitting on the deck, the fully adjustable suspension coped with any road. as did the brakes. Handling was of course of high order too The turbo lag was however monstrous, needing the driver to greatly anticipate overtaking gaps and pinning the throttle whilst still holding overtaking position behind the car in front and before the gap actually opened..! It blew its head gasket right on the 3 yr warranty limit and Roger Clarks / Porsche failed to agree with my diagnosis of leaking gasket over the previous months - Yes they fought honouring it Later it dropped a chunk of one of the sodium filled valves. meaning I had to do an out of warranty engine rebuild ...icl 16 motorsport sodium valves.... Cloth wore through on drivers seat and rust started around the screen..... Low / medium miles, but I thought it was time to move on...having considered for a while putting a tuned Chvevy V8 in Bought a Griff 4.3 that was still being run in :) U could thrash the 758, yump it, flames thwacking from the red hot exhaust on upshifts etc...however I still much prefer the Griff (which u Cant thrash down a back rd!)

[@I999-g2s]

Very interesting. I currently run a Cerb alongside a C4S and GT3 and whilst the Cerb wouldn’t see which way either of the other cars went, it feels way more special.

[@mmmmmmmmmmmmmmm420]

'U'?

[@davidstuart4915]

@@I999-g2s About sums up the wonderful TVR brand......Above all else, they are the best seats in most (sensible budget) fleets ;)

[@SEOTeamBerlin]

my dad had his Porsche 924 for 30 years, drove it until almost his 80th b-day :-D - in my student times, in my 4-ppl student flat one guy had a 924 around the same time (mid 80ies). On the other side of the street, a neighbour friend had a 928S for almost 10 years, and yet another friend had a 911 SC. All of these friends let me drive their cars every once in a while and it was a great pleasure, but I spent my own money on loads of camera and music equipment, not enough left for an own Porsche :-D

[@wheeleroharrow6501]

Great review and excellent info on the wastegate. My block on my 944s blew up 10 years ago but I'm raising my guards red machine from the dead to become a 948 with a 5.7L ls1 with the turbo transaxle with LSD. Looking for first start in a couple months. Beautiful cars. Should be 385hp and 365 tq

[@ryanmccormick2150]

Not far from where I live there is a red 944 rotting in someone's from garden...... Every time I see it I think what an absolute waste of a truly great car! Cracking stuff as always Jack 👍

[@anthonydeas2173]

I love all older Porsches, even the 924!!! Air-cooled 911 and 928 are top of my list.. But a 944 turbo with the sunroof would certainly do!!!

[@guymiddleton9844]

Great review!! I have 89 951. Its a Canadian car imported to the U.S. - no air bag in the steering wheel. I was running 21 psi but tossed the head gasket and since also blowing out the Turbo seal the following has been rebuilt; the Turbo, the engine completely, cylinder head fully ported and flowed, a Billet Bullett cam is in it which keeps peak Torque and HP in in the same spot, matching the gear box drops. Boost 16-17 now with 2 shims in the gate instead of 4. It has a 3' exhaust with a Hooker Aero Chamber muffler. All this work was done about 6-7 years ago. I don't have Turbo lag, I have a sewing machine. I love the immediate steering response completely in phase with your hands. The 968 was declared by F. Porsche to be his ultimate Porsche. Unfortunately, in the U.S. (90% of Porsche sales) the attitude is "911 period". As a result of this attitude, the 944/S2/968 cars were undervalued. Still looked down upon by the 911 crowd, not outrun though. Starting about 15 years ago they've been on a constant rise. #1 951 is about 56-58K$ and a #2 is about 28-30k$. Long drives end with my wife and I looking for a Chiropractor....Probably keep the car for another 20 years (I'm 68).

[@robbeazley4694]

Hi Great video. I used to own a 944 Silver Rose I think there were only 75 right hand drive built. The main feature was the fully adjustable suspension for track use. I had mine for about 5 years and it was totally reliable but I sold as it only used ultimately for very short journeys which was not good. It’s one of the many vehicles I wished I had been able to keep .it had this unique interior cloth upholstery which distinguishes it from any other models but was not very hard wearing. A great car

[@ericvonzipper4374]

I always thought they didn't like the Turbo being so close to it's flagship 911. Great car but since I don't care for anything Turbocharged (my mechanical prejudice) I sprung for the 3 liter S2 after wanting something faster than my 1984. To me the Turbo is the open road "Le Mans" version where you can use the Turbo to good effect while the S2 is the "Moonshine" running version using the 3 liter's low end grunt to advantage on twisting turning roads with short or no straightaways to keep the Turbo spooled up plus we have the Turbo's brakes for slowing. Nice video, keep up the good work.

[@jesterokjones4954]

My first car was a 1981 924 Turbo, slightly modified, probably putting down a little over 200HP to the rear wheels. This was in the mid 90's, so 200 HP wasn't too bad, it was actually a good bit faster than a friend's new -ish 1994 Mustang GT which was a 5 liter and slightly faster than another friend's 1992 Eclipse GS-T. I miss that car.

[@leslieheine2618]

Your the guy I wish I had for a neighbor. Love your videos and in-depth analysis. Your a man with tremendous patience too!

[@Number27]

Thank you 🙏, that’s very kind. Happy new year!

[@jaspal666]

I had a US spec 944 16v. Made 180hp which was e30 M3 territory. Wonderful for track events. Loved the car.

[@focus3303]

I had a 1987 944 automatic in ibiza and I loved it. It was burgundy.....bought it in Germany and brought it to ibiza

[@333pg333]

Don't forget that once they started playing with 16v heads the opportunity to extract a lot more power was there to be had. However even in the very rare 968 turbo the factory went back to an 8v head. It would seem that they knew the writing was on the wall for these fantastic cars to be retired. Had the deal been done with Audi instead of Porsche I think these cars would be considered classics today. Many enthusiasts have modified their engines to produce well over 500bhp. Accompanied by modern suspension systems and upgraded brakes, these now can compete with all but the Ultra level of very expensive cars for the rich.

[@user-pt1ow8hx5l]

Safety might have been a concern. Also. Back in the day. And rdurability of the whole package,..... Swedes have the same thing going on with 16valve TurboSaabs. That can be tuned right at the factory door by just adjusting the engine management.

[@333pg333]

Well I don't know about safety. I mean you had their top of the range car with big lag, heavy motor behind rear axle and relatively small brakes. Not to forget future widow makers like the GT2's that came out later.

[@Soupdragon1964]

In real terms so much better than the 930 Turbo (would you have wanted to drive one about on cold/frozen roads?), just didn't have the aura. I don't think ANY 911 would be able to keep with a well driven 944 CS. Great video as always!

[@A9XXC]

Nice review, I know the car and owner and have owned 7 944s, (currently 3) so could be considered biased, however its the first one I've seen with no direct factual errors! So well done. I love the S2s because of the way you can drive them daily, even today and they will just do the daily duties but still keep up with much more modern sporty cars in most road situations, all with no fuss and still return well over 30mpg on a run........

[@bobz1736]

I drove a 968 Club Sport for some time on their release and absolutely loved the taught chassis & handling and the grunty engine.

[@craigteale-jones6131]

Great video as always! I recently bought a white 944 S2 that I'll be restoring shortly. Thinking of fitting ITBs to it which should make it a bit more interesting! Plus it has the 3 litre 16 valve engine to begin with.

[@robt8042]

Be sure to post the videos.

[@marmitenz5960]

An S2 with ITBs and a decent tune, suspension, tires, guards LSD plus the usual MO30 spec mods would make an absolute beast of an N/A 944. Im Interested to hear what power it makes… already looking Up ITBs and Link G4 the etc

[@THEBEARDEDTOOLGUY]

I REMEMBER the 944 TURBO S it put out so much power it could out run cars with v8s

[@richardsellers8671]

I had a late model 944 Turbo, bridge spoiler model with M030 and LSD, and it was a proper laggy old Hector, and the suspension was way too hard. Previously I'd had a 944 S2, and whilst being way down on power, the engine was a lovely thing, torquey, revvy and oh so progressive and smooth. Coupled with the standard suspension, it was a much nicer driving car IMO.

[@shanehnorman]

I had two S2s in succession, a coupé and cabriolet. Loved their feeling of unburstability, smooth and linear power delivery, perfect driving position, and sheer practicality. Also, the best-looking cam cover on any 'four'! However, with the hood down, the cabriolet suffered from scuttle shake, while the rear deck looked very much the victim of a cut-and-shut operation to make it open-topped.

[@richardsellers8671]

@@shanehnorman Agree 100% on the cam cover, it's a lovely thing. I don't know if you're aware, but it kind of IS a cut and shut, originally converted from a coupe by Bauer, the contract to productionise was given to the American Sunroof Corporation (ASC) in Germany. Part complete coupe bodies were taken from the production line and shipped to ASC for conversion, then back to Porsche for rustproofing/paint, then back to ASC for the roof fitment. The very top of the rear wings were plastic, mounted over cut down steel. IMO the very worst part of the conversion.

[@TheMentalblockrock]

Agreed! I bought a 944 S2 after trying the Turbo's, a much better motorway car.

[@purangesmith9053]

I had a 2.7 , under powered skinny tyres and great fun especially in the wet. Loved it. People underestimated how practical the 944 was, with the back seats down ,like a very low van,would take a mountain bike with the wheels on , but an oap decided to drive through it so I got an S2. After the 2.7 it was definitely faster but the lithesome nature was lost in my opinion. More of a GT. Test drove 968s and turbos . Looked for a good turbo for over a year travelled hundreds of miles looking at dross then gave up. Got a z4 coupe years later , as the nearest modern equivalent . Porsche can make sports cars with relatively compliant suspension , bmw not . Still wish I’d got a turbo though. Strange how people can have such different opinions, I wonder if I hadn’t had the 2.7 , would I have liked the S2 more?

[@A9XXC]

@@purangesmith9053 I've had a 2.7 and 5 S2s the S2 is certainly faster and much quicker.........

[@ozradar]

I miss my 90’ 944 Turbo (I had a minor crash and the insurance company took it!). Turbo lag was quite annoying off the lights, but was rectified somewhat by swapping out the crown wheel and pinion with the forged one from the 944 S2 and also swapping for a dual port wastegate.

[@oohmeconkers1968]

I have N/A 2.5 944. In white. To be honest I could have bought 996/997 at the time but I didn’t want to have that much money sitting in a Sunday car. The 944 gets positive responses from all that are bothered. I suspect in a 911 you do get the negative hand gestures whereas the 944 is a friendlier car. Mine has 95k on the clock and is squeak and rattle free, interior is holding up well (except the dash top cracks). Can’t say it was pampered before I got it but it is now. Ride and handling are great especially on speed bumps and rough roads. It’s quick enough in the real restricted world (for me) and i thoroughly enjoy driving it. All for a 4 figure amount too!! Great vid Jack as always! They are getting slicker !!😂

[@Rossi593]

I was given a spin in one of these in 1987. I was stunned at it’s acceleration and cornering grip. I had little else to compare it to but I’ve never forgotten it. The Cayman is dynamically better than the 911 but like the 944 has never been allowed full development.

[@emailandydean]

Cayman never been allowed to fully develop? What about the GT4?

[@Garrison64]

Had one of these years ago and it was an absolutely amazing car for the time. Once that turbo spooled up it was a beast. Had mine up to 160 mph once. Smooth as glass at that speed.

[@urbanhagman2078]

Glad to see this. I've had 924:s, 944:s and 928:s Happy days ;-) One 944 was a 944S, the four cylinder 3 liter - perhaps the most under-estimated, people wanted 6 cylinders it seemed. Had one 944 turbo and I loved it, however it had no steering-servo and also no AC. In mid of summer I bought my first 928. But the performance of the 944 turbo was great. Less of a racing-experience than the 930 turbo, more civilized. Also loved the nimble 924:s.

[@scalecrawlnl]

Love the 944! Schoolmate's Dad drove one way back when, in silver. Also much love for the 924 come to think of it 👍 Could be national pride, meaning designer Harm Lagaay. Thank you very much Jack, fun video of a cool car in white :)

[@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel]

The original 924 design is beautiful. You must be Dutch.

[@scalecrawlnl]

@@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel Wholeheartedly agree and yes, I am Dutch indeed. Thank you kindly for a good car conversation 👍

[@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel]

@@scalecrawlnl 👍

[@ThriftMachine]

I've owned the 944 and the 911. Both have their pros and cons, but if I had to chose one again the 944 is sooooo much better to drive all around. Just a fantastic car, the balance is sublime

[@lebojay]

Was your 911 air-cooled? If so, I have no relevant experience. I think the 996 blows the 944 away, though. I’ve had both. Just my opinion.

[@ThriftMachine]

@@lebojay 996 C4 6spd

[@nova-oy4qy]

Jack, I'm proud of you. I feel like you now (after 3 reviews of this platform) have had enough seat time with the 944/968 to truly understand its major pros and cons. Its a strange beast that needs to get exercised hard to get the goods out of it.

[@robsellars9338]

I had one of these for 3yrs as a daily driver about 8 yrs ago and I drive it all over Europe, sometimes for 8 hrs a day at continuos high speeds. It was an incredible car and the engine was bullet proof by the 90s, so reliable that even extended high speed driving was nothing to it. So enjoyable, I really miss that car!

[@bobbybridgeman2629]

My dad bought one of these new back in the late 80s from chariots Porsche in St Albans when they were just a small operation.....has stirred some happy memories.

[@benpenagonzales6014]

Agree, old school turbo is a fun way to drive. Don't know why ALL modern cars try to dial out the turbo effect

[@talosiv4927]

Thanks for another great, and informative, video. I have always loved the 944. It was first Porsche I ever drove. My partner of the time had an older brother who had bought one shortly after they came out in the early 80s. He let me drive it. At the time I thought it was completely fabulous. I still think they are a beautiful car, and wish I could have owned a turbo model like this one. I do still own and drive (other) Porsches now though.

[@jpsportscars9284]

I had a 1986 Guards Red Turbo with a Promax level 1 Performance kit which gave soo much boost and it was soo good on Euro road trips especially on the Autobahn, would sit at 155mph all day long and it would be soo comfortable, great allrounder and still looks great.

[@trevorbartram5473]

I suprised how many of these were around when I moved to Massachusetts in 85. Your vids have lovely views of the English countryside!

[@historymythslegends]

Except from my current car, a Giulia, it was the best car I ever had, and mine was a series 1 with 163cv from the 2,5l engine. if the go got twisty the E30 M3 with almost 40cv more could not keep up with it. it was a magnificent car. Thank you for bringing me memories.

[@carverac]

Porsche has always manipulated performance and numbers with their lesser models. Caymans/Boxsters exhibit the same characteristics of tuning limitations and performance numbers that are strangely convenient for sales. Add in insane mark-ups on upper models and this is the reason many enthusiasts are asking for more transparency and an end to dealerships.

[@geoffclarke3796]

Great cars, I had a 944 Turbo in the late 90's with similar mods to the Turbo ad this one so putting out about 300BHP. Very quick and handles great though quite a bit of turbo lag.

[@fredeb67]

I remember as a pre-teen in the late 70s this car was touted as the best handling Porsche with the best drag coefficient for the era. Then, there was the Trans Am Turbo with the blacked trick tail lights. Both beautiful cars of the time.

[@bryanohlsson4689]

I own 2 of these beauties. Both 1988's and still driving them today and love getting behind the wheel. The ride and feel still as it is the day I bought them. Have owned many Porsche, but my 951's are my favorite.

[@kramnam4716]

Always a sign of a great drive when you harder you push the better it gets.. that’s pretty rare. Any other nominees?

[@denseljosephs9500]

Love them I used to deliver car's and I always loved how these drove , when they were cheap I was torturing myself looking at a few at 5G .Wish I'd bought one. I spun a white 944 turbo on a roundabout with a mate in the passenger seat a full 360 didn't hit anything! I respected the turbo lag after that it was worth it as my mate had been diagnosed with MS and he'd always said he'd never been in a Porsche. Good memories he passed away 11 years ago.

[@siriannacortanesca238]

I’m miss my 89 944 Turbo. While it was painfully pricey to get back to fighting shape I wish I never sold it.

[@tonylee-UK]

Fantastic upload as ever and what a wonderful trip down memory lane. I had a 944 Turbo S which was one of forty made (apparently just because of it's unique colour). I always thought it was a competent and a nice commuter vehicle. I recall the pedals were offset and on long drives my hips would hurt. But like anything we love, we forgive their shortcomings.

[@DavidMorley]

I have to stand up for the 968. As you say, on the limit, they are excellent BUT I love the fact that you can blast down the autobahn at high speeds in 6th gear without ruining your bank account. It's also more than fast enough for me and comfortable and quiet..I love them. We'll have to argue about the loss. The 968 looks superb.

[@christophecamus3295]

Love your videos ❤❤❤❤❤ always fun and informative 👍 great car this is the 944 had 3 liters atmospheric version too

[@carlosoruna7174]

A few days ago I asked for a 944t review.. and yes. Do a number on the waste gate and your golden. Same as mk2 vw. Drill a hole in the injection plastic box access a screw and opps it comes alive.

[@Highway18]

Great 80s cars are getting scooped up and tucked away. 944 is pure memories of childhood for me! Get yours while you can.

[@robertsupercalifragilistic7404]

I’ve had a few, it will always be my favorite model. It’s nice to see that they are going up in value, keep them out of the hands of children modifying them.

[@catjudo1]

I don't know how you can drive into the low winter sun on a snowy day and not use the visors. I'm hurting just watching you. Also, great video. The 944 is one of my favorite Porsches, though the 928 is my all time favorite. Both cars still look fantastic all these years later; why can't today's carmakers make something that looks this good?

[@jhpbrown]

The 928, 944, and the 959 are the only Porsches I would entertain, the 911 never did anything for me styling wise, and all the derivative versions of the 911 just dilute the model in my humble opinion, there's no denying they're a popular and capable vehicle but they really don't get my juices flowing. Great video, keep them coming :)

[@ericbrammer2245]

One thing I love, is the "slow" signs In The Road, that you blithely IGNORE at Hard Throttle! Just like my swapping out 'Stops' and 'Yields' Signposts at certain intersections in my teen youth!

[@weeman2727]

Great video. Love the 944…..if I ever win the lottery RetroPower will get one of these for an update and rebuild….motoring heaven!

[@mathiasjohannesson9833]

In my garage, we rebuilt one 944 2,5 liter and one 968 3 liters. Same setup. In dyno the 2,5 gave 475 hp @0,7 bars. Later after a month of driving, we increased the boost to 1,5 bars. Pretty fast then. Did 16000 km before it got sold, without any malfunctions. Porsche is just quality personified.

[@jamesmacleod9382]

My friend has a hobby store next door to a garage that specializes in German cars,especially Porsche. They always have a few of these out front, some for racing some street and a few 928s, always nice to visit him and see what's in stock. There was even a Renault 5 turbo. I had never seen one in real life before.

[@stevesas632]

Great video Jack. I would definitely choose a 968 over a 944, but I may be biased as I owned a black 968 Sport for 11yrs. Once the cams change at 4k plus they sound great with windows down. Also the 6 speed box is a big plus on the motorway. I think the 968 rear especially looked sleeker, & to me the only negative was they shouldn't have made the naked headlights as pop ups.

[@BartLocanthi]

Bought mine new in 1990, same color. Minor tweaks for track readiness, including a better engine management ROM. Yes it was a bit faster than stock 930s on the track (there are no stock track cars). Very sad to finally sell it after 30 (!!) years Thanks for the video, it brought back fond memories.

[@slartybartfast5368]

That looks like Harry’s Garage roads….. great video Jack…..my son had one and we loved it.

[@althejazzman]

Hi Jack, you would be welcome to drive my 924 Turbo, and complete the set! I know you have driven my friend Chris' supercharged 924, but this is a different beast with lots of unique design features. It delivers slightly more power than a standard 944, but with an urgency and excitement that I'm sure you'll recognise from this 944 Turbo. It also weighs less than a 944. It's in a stunning white over red colour scheme with the famous Pasha print interior.

[@rr40v8]

Thank you for this brilliant and insightful video, I am really finding myself attracted to old 944s at the moment, in contrast to the larger ugly stuff that manufacturers churn out today. Happy New Year 👍

[@rhiantaylor3446]

A positive note - after the mid 1980's they were made from galvanised sheet steel and resist rust into old age far better than most.

[@1dariansdad]

A similar situation with the Acura Vigor. It was a straight 5 "rated" at 176hp. Through some skunk working, the throttle body was limited in travel. Once you got it open to 100%, it was estimated at over 200hp and would outrun the flagship Legend. It was pretty quick for a mid-lux sedan. Kept up pace for pace with the Taurus SHO of the same era.

[@andysax1071]

The 968 is my all time fave, if you can get your hands on one to review. Keep up the great work.

[@The80shilling]

I had one that was featured in Excellence Magazine, the issue titled "Giant Killer". It was built for me by David Raines at PowerHaus in Arizona, and was stroked out to 2.8 litres, and had a ton of custom work done to it, from knife-edging the crank, to o-ringing the heads, custom hybrid turbo and a laundry list of other mods. It finally ended up making 460 RWHP and 440 Ft./Lbs torque at 1.3 bar on race gas, but it was prone to blowing head gaskets, even with the o-ring job, so I used to run 1.2 bar at the track on race gas, and 1.1 bar on the street on pump. that was the best handling car I ever owned, after all the suspension mods, even better than my Porsche GT2 with full triple adjustable JRZ's, and massive suspension upgrades. I really miss that car!

[@clintondavies8098]

Great video very informative I've had 2 944's a coupe 2.5 and a 944 s2 Cabriolet I miss them always wanted a 944 turbo didn't know it was detuned

[@motorv8N]

One of my all around favourite sports cars. I lusted after them mightily in my late teens and twenties when they were in their heyday and they still stir something deep down even now

[@sicks6six]

A kid I knew paid £4K for one back in 1992 and it was clean as whistle, solid, low mileage, well serviced, white with a B&W check interior, it drove like new, at the time I just bought a 1.1 Fiesta paying almost as much, these were great looking cars and nice to be in, the interior was really neat and tidy IMO. . .

[@joeg8186]

Love your reviews with history and interesting bits . One car I would love someone to do an updated review of is the Bond Bug don't know what it is but I think it has some thing about it that is timeless.

[@rogerp6903]

I had the great pleasure of lapping a 944 turbo around Mosport raceway a few decades back and it was a very well-balanced performance car that could outrun many that were twice as valuable

[@thecriticalnous]

93’ 968 owner here. LOVE IT. used to own an 83’ 944 and an 86 944 Turbo. The funnest was the turbo . But over all the 968 is the better car

[@martingregory5955]

When I was a young man I was taken for a ride by my brother in law in his 944. My memory of that was its kinda cool but just another car and all a bit underwhelming. When I jumped in my now 986 after trying the SLK350, I went now I get it! I had to have it! I also have a BMW 530i wagon which I love and wanted something different along side and the 986 hit the spot. I may feel differently now if drove a 944 but that's how I remember it.

[@TheSeventhSeal]

I had a Turbo S, and it was a very well put together, very quick car that looked the part. However... he's right when he says they only come alive at the limit, and in the UK it's not that often that you find yourself on an open road and able to push it. In normal driving it was a bit so-so, and I couldn't get on with the seats so I sold it. The boost tho was incredible, with the gearing catching the boost range perfectly as you moved through the gears, just a shame I never got to drive it enough with the kind of space/roads that suited it.

[@linkedup7346]

Nice video and commentary. My 944 was India red with tan interior. A very nice looking car and well-balanced as you say. Being that it was naturally aspirated, I felt I'd have to open the driver's door, stick my leg out and help scooter it along. It really did lack torque. Of course, in the owner's manual there was a very keen diagram of the torque curve which showed the dual cam kicking in around 4000 RPMS. Actually, this was almost a marketing ploy. It seemed like forever to get to 4000 RPMS. Even worse while downshifting around corners the car sounded like a helicopter. I was told the bearings in the torque tube were shot. I will admit that every time I sat behind the wheel of this car I reminded myself, "Yes, this is my Poor Man's Porsche".

[@markchip1]

OMG - a Virage coming next? At last, an Aston on Number 27!!! Yippee!!!

[@anthonyrozada1980]

I have a 1986 944 Turbo (stock) in Guards Red, absolutely love it, so much fun to drive.