The Porsche 944 - it's cool but how's it drive?

The Porsche 944 is an 80's poster car. Often dismissed as underpowered and underwhelming, what's it really like to drive a 944? I was lucky enough to drive this well sorted Porsche 944 for a week or so. Truth be told, I was surprised. Watch to find out why.
Last Rasp on Instagram: / last_rasp

[@NickMurray]

Great production quality Andy.

[@lastrasp]

Thanks so much Nick! Appreciate it mate.

[@BFord-ho3pq]

transaxle Porsches are very underrated cars. They just drive so well.

[@lastrasp]

Yeah 100%. Have to agree with you mate.

[@jergervasi3331]

I watched this because I AM that nostalgia buyer who wants one. Thanks for the advice!

[@lastrasp]

Yes!!! Hope you manage to buy one.

[@leesmartin]

All you needed to go with the music, was an 80's tracksuit ensemble and a mullet Andy 😁 Nice work again 👍

[@lastrasp]

Yep, needed some Fluoro for sure!

[@kewlhunter7333]

I have owned a well sorted turbo for 11 years and love it, so went into this video thinking oh great, someone going to drive a cheap run down car and then trash how it drives. So was really refreshing to see you enjoying the car and that you drove a decent car so could see what they are all about. There is a reason road and track voted it best handling car for 4 years straight. If you want to review a turbo hit me up. It's getting some work done and lockdown etc but once that's all sorted, we could work something out. Great video 👍👍

[@lastrasp]

Cheers mate. Would love a go in a Turbo. I loved driving this car - it was just fun and I had a smile on my face the entire time!

[@kewlhunter7333]

@@lastrasp I'll shoot you a message once I have it dynoed after new bits fitted 👍

[@joe653]

While I do not have a nostalgic feeling for this car as I'm only 17, so the car is a lot older than I am. I am just in love with the way this car looks. My favourite looking car previously was the rx7 FC. But I thought It was impractical to own for me as of the unreliability of the rotary engine and I don't see myself being able to maintain that car. But the Porsche 944 ticks all the boxes. It's sad that I cannot get one right now. But it's my dream car that actually obtainable.

[@lastrasp]

Hey There Joe. Funny that I'm reading your comment just now as i was literally minutes ago, looking at FD Rx7's. Big fan! Keep hustling mate and one day you'll have a 944!

[@mayamanign]

People seem to forget that the 944 platform was tested at the crucible of Lemans after it's mundane beginnings. A properly tuned 944 is a track weapon. Think about this, out of a gigantic field of cars the 924 GTS race cars finished 12th overall at Lemans, not in their class, but overall against GT1, GT2, GT3, LMP, Prototypes! Astonishing. The 944 platform is criminally underated and that's now changing with their value beginning to rocket for well kept examples. About time! Respect!

[@lastrasp]

Really good point re the history of that platform. Can also tell you I was chasing this very 944 just weeks ago in my GT4 and keeping up was no picnic!

[@chrishenley3218]

Andy, top notch video buddy! It's content like this that takes me right back to the 80s and lusting after a 944. Kudos to you on the music cut choice.

[@lastrasp]

Cheers Chris. Gotta love the 80’s mate!

[@ngmaks]

Another great video mate 👍🏼 I’m glad you said that at the start, I also preferred the 944 to the 911 as a kid. My best friend’s dad had one in guards red and it looked incredible back then 😆

[@lastrasp]

YESSS! so good Marc. Glad I wasn’t the only one loving the 944 back in the day.

[@artmchugh5644]

You mean like this?? 😂😂😂🚘🍺🍺🍺 kzbin.info/www/bejne/nnSrhYt5gKyZbbc

[@nathanlink4926]

The quality of this video was unreal! How do you not have half a mil subs yet!

[@lastrasp]

Oh you're too kind Nathan! Really appreciate the comment mate. Just gotta keep putting out the content and the subscribers will come (although half a mill may be optimistic! 😂)

[@ricardoboosten5202]

Excellent video once again! Love your production quality and enthusiasm. A little tip to get more viewer engagement (KZbin algo's like that): Ask the viewers to answer an opinionated question in the comment section.

[@lastrasp]

Thanks for the comment Ricardo. Will give that a try.

[@maxwellkennedy9524]

Thanks for the video Andy. 944’s are great highway cruisers too. Best mate had a red turbo for years until he lost too many points!

[@lastrasp]

I have to agree. Loved cruising along the freeway in that car just today!

[@AlanShirtsink]

Have owned a 83 944, a 911 Carrera 3.0 that was sorted and a 90 944 s2. The 911 was a thrill to drive but I would get out sweating from the concentration that I took to really drive it hard. The S2 is the opposite and actually very capable of getting the juices flowing. I would take the S2 and have because it is enjoyable to drive. By the way, best video I have seen on the 944. Actually seat of the pants review rather than reciting run of the mill history and boring stats.

[@lastrasp]

Hey Alan. Thanks so much for the comment and feedback! I loved driving this S2. Just a very easy car to get in and get on with straight away. And I've seen this very car drive away from some big hitting modern stuff.

[@alanbrowning4866]

Another Porsche ripper video Andy. Keep them coming please, Sunday nights entrainment has never been better.

[@lastrasp]

Ah thanks good man!

[@captaincoyote1792]

I’m a proud owner of a 1990 S2 Cabriolet….in that same livery: Baltic Blue with a full leather Linen-colored interior. I had always wanted one, and when I made O6 in the Navy the same year I turned 50, I bought one. I live in New England, so she’s in mothballs through the hard winter months, and she still drives like new. But it’s not unusual to see 944 coupes with ski racks and snow tires at winter resorts, and I’ve even seen them with bicycle racks on the roof! Mine is a worthy and fun travel car: I have “thrown” her around curves on the Kancamangus in the Whites, all through the Adirondacks, down the Blue Ridge Parkway, through the Tail of the Dragon in Tennessee, along the Outer Banks and up through the coast of Maine. Hopefully this year, planning to tour Nova Scotia coastline in her. To those considering one? (1) spend the money and time to buy the best example….and strive to find a seller that has comprehensive maintenance records! (2) be willing to pay for a Pre-purchase Inspection (PPI), and please don’t assume that a modern Porsche dealer has the ability to do a proper PPI on a car - even a Porsche! - that is 35+ years old. (Incidentally, I paid for three PPIs when I finally settled on mine in 2006). (3) and while this car’s maintenance requirements can be challenging, the engine bay is easily accessible, and if you’re willing learn and “turn a wrench”, these are easy, and not as expensive as some would have you believe, to maintain. Great video…..thank you, amigo!

[@lastrasp]

Great comment! Sounds like you and your 944 have had a great journey and that you made the right decision (even if it needs to have a few months of hibernation over Winter - must make the return to driving even more enjoyable). And I couldn't agree more - a PPI is paramount - preferably from an independent shop when it comes to the older cars. Keep on enjoying your cab!

[@AlanShirtsink]

Ditto on the experience. I am driving mine cross country next month from Phoenix to Atlanta and back with no worries about attrition. Great cars

[@zahemi914]

Definitely true, back in the 80s I was so crazy over 944 and 948 rather than 911, only now I would take 911, but still from the early 80s era...

[@lastrasp]

Funny isn't it. I think at the time that classic front engined, rear drive coupe look was just so popular and the 944 was Porsche's best looking (in my opinion) example.

[@jonwarshawsky5288]

I remember when it was launched and yes, I loved it. Now I prefer the 964, but a nice 944 is still a treat. Rare these days, which adds to the cool factor.

[@gwilli]

Great video, Andy! The 80s style music was perfect. Nice touch!

[@lastrasp]

Thanks Greg! Appreciate the feedback. Was stoked to find a good 80’s sounding track.

[@jordinolten4285]

Hi Andy, love the vid. I'm based in Melbourne and I've got a Garnet Red 1986 944 Turbo. Let me know if you wanted to look at producing something similar with it in future. The classic turbo-lag from an 80's Porsche really adds to the fun! Having a vid like this with you driving my car would be fantastic!

[@lastrasp]

Sounds like a cracking car Jordi! How long you had it? May well reach out to make a vid 👌🏼

[@uweheinrich6784]

Nice video....924, 928, 944, 968....they all get so many negative comments because of their deviation from the 911 formula. I like the 911 and the history of the car to the max, but I also like the unloved Porsche's. Growing up in Germany, I can tell you that these cars were absolutely ground-breaking cars filled with innovation in design, form and function. All of this makes them true Porsche's - Now in a world of very expensive 911's, I think these cars provide an almost equal classic brand value. They are unique in their own way. I also think that the 987 and 981 become true modern classics, when people will recognize that EV's are nothing more but smart phones with wheels and have nothing in common with true automotive mechanical craftsmanship.....and the joy of driving. (aka "driver engagement" is a word that Elon does not understand).

[@lastrasp]

Could not agree with you more! Drive engagement is what makes these cars so enjoyable to drive. It's a feeling of being actually connected to the driving experience that delivers so much enjoyment for me. And honestly, you don't need to best / fast / well sorted car to get that enjoyment.

[@uweheinrich7931]

@@lastrasp we must be brothers....I have a 981 Cayman GTS.....I am a poor man....LOL

[@lastrasp]

@@uweheinrich7931 if I had my time over I’d have bought the 981 S instead of my 991.

[@uweheinrich7931]

@@lastrasp I like the 991 too. It is a dilemma, like dating twin sisters - despite all the similarities they will have both their advantages.....

[@flat6enthusiast619]

@uweheinrich6784 100% true!

[@christopherjames6568]

Well pulled together Andy- top quality production 👍

[@lastrasp]

Hey thanks so much Christopher!

[@vancityflyguy]

Great Video Andy, as always👍🏻

[@lastrasp]

Thanks for the support as always mate 😉

[@rodneynelson3862]

Great Video Andy. I have actually owned two 944 Turbos. They are great cars and they drive super smooth. They shift great just as you described. You didn't mention how beautiful the interiors are. In my opinion they did an excellent job with the entire layout. I would take another one anytime. Side note that the '86 - '87 1/2 Turbos had a tendency to crack the headers, so you need to upgrade to the later model header that has a flexible exhaust piece in the headers. You have to watch the water pumps, keep and eye on the coolant level and make sure you get all the air out of the system correctly when filling them up, and make sure you take care of the timing belt at the correct interval. The S2 model you were driving has the great 3.0L engine compared to the smaller turbo's 2.5L. The pinnacle of course is the 968.

[@lastrasp]

Thanks very much for the input Rodney. I did actually make comment on the interior ergonomics and quality but it didn't make the final edit. I was super impressed with how well thought-out the interior was. Yes, I think I need a go in a 968 for sure!

[@mikeyhbev]

Cracking video buddy! I love the 944/924. I did have a 1978 924, with a dogleg gearbox! I absolutely loved that car! I actually ended up giving it to my mate for nothing about 17 years ago!!!!! 😫

[@lastrasp]

Yeah I e always loved both of those cars. Really loved the styling. Would have one in the garage for sure!

[@mikeyhbev]

@@lastrasp 100% 😃👍

[@user-cb2lz8yy9s]

I love my 83. It’s manual everything and it’s a driving experience you don’t get anymore.

[@lastrasp]

Couldn’t agree more! There’s something so great about that analogue experience.

[@artmchugh5644]

Like this ??? 😁😁😁😁😁🚘🚘🍺🍺 kzbin.info/www/bejne/nnSrhYt5gKyZbbc

[@wernerengel6357]

Excellent video. Love the looks of the 924, 944 & 928. However bought a 997 turbo. 😕

[@lastrasp]

997 Turbo? I think you win Werner!

[@KoreyConstable]

Totally agree on the seat position being a little bit too high and I'm just shy of 5'11" (almost 180.cm) with a normal torso. The standard seats in my 1986 Porsche 944 turbo also seems like they are a little bit too tight on my upper back because I feel like the bolsters push me forward somewhat. I don't feel fully seated and I'm just under 170 pounds (almost 77kg). I Don't know why anyone in the Porsche community would say the 944 is disappointing to drive other than it lacking power because the car has the most neutral handling of any car I've driven and everything around the driver set is set up just right.

[@lastrasp]

It's interesting isn't it? Otherwise I actually really like the ergonomics of the 944. I think power is exactly the reason people may be disappointed but for a road car, there's plenty there on tap to enjoy! And like you say, it's beautifully balanced!

[@anthonygordon14]

Andy, for really cool popup headlights and overall style, you should review a Porsche 928 - Geneva Salon Car of the Year :-)

[@lastrasp]

Hey Anthony. Yeah for sure I’ll find myself in a 928 at some point!

[@anthonygordon14]

@@lastrasp Maybe my Guards red 928. Let me know when you are on a run next.

[@lastrasp]

@@anthonygordon14 will talk for sure!

[@MrSlimblondemoose]

Great little insight into a 944

[@lastrasp]

Cheers! Thanks for taking a look.

[@cameronwinslow9289]

Love my 85 NA and 86 turbo!

[@lastrasp]

Oh damn, what a combo! Sounds like a great garage!

[@dukestevens3405]

If you ever get the chance to drive a turbo, it is a whole new world. The 80s turbo lag is a hoot! It goes like no power, no power, now power, booooooost

[@lastrasp]

haha. that sounds awesome, Duke! 80's turbo lag does indeed rock!

[@artmchugh5644]

Well it's not driving, but hop in my turbo for a few laps!!!! 😆😆😆🚘🚘🏁 enjoy!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIW7pWOKi5x5ea8

[@fredbobberts5753]

Getting it running and getting it nice is the best choice. If you want more power buy a different platform. You can make the back end step out- but not badly- you can power steer them and it’s quite a bit of fun in a 944s2 or 944s

[@lastrasp]

Yep, spot on Fred. When they’re running well, they’re lovely.

[@fredbobberts5753]

It also helps to have the steering wheel on the correct (left hand) side. ;) Actually one of the cool things is the different bill of materials RHD 944s bring to the party; I’ve only watched a few Porsche Club of GB videos, but they always teach this Yank something. I think the Autos weren’t available for RHD cars - I forget if earlier or later, because of some steering engineering thing. I have to dig out the list but there’s quite the RHD only parts list.

[@atomicinv2]

You’re getting a thumbs up from me just because of that 80s music😀

[@lastrasp]

I’ll take that Rob!

[@andrewsciberras319]

Loved the music!

[@lastrasp]

Thanks Andrew. Love the 80’s!

[@draskonenezic4999]

@@lastrasp What music is?

[@alejandroe1329]

Great video

[@lastrasp]

Thanks so much Alejandro!

[@anytimefitnessringwood8616]

Killer video!!

[@lastrasp]

Thanks very much mate. Good to see the fitness community getting behind car content 😉

[@EduSanjuan777]

Even better than it looks

[@lastrasp]

Yep, spot on!

[@Georgebarber1]

You should do the other transaxle as well!

[@lastrasp]

For sure!!!

[@qtrfoil]

That's not an "S," it's an "S2." The "S2" has an extra 0.5L, worth an extra 20+ hp over the "S," and especially more useful gearing. You would, in fact, have to spend an enormous amount of money trying to get much more power out of it - it's not as simple as flashing an ECU and adding more boost to a turbo,

[@lastrasp]

Hey well spotted! 👌🏼

[@qtrfoil]

@@lastrasp I have a '90 S2 and an '87 Carrera - don't tell anyone, but the 944 is more fun to drive! I'm always thinking about weight transfer in the 911, and making sure I don't do anything that will cause the rear end to step out until I'm ready for it. The 944 is completely intuitive instead, rotating exactly around my own CG without any need to second guess an input. If I have to make a choice about keeping only one, and I may, it's going to be very, very difficult.

[@berndecke9488]

Hallo Andy,nice Sweater,Gmünd is the Birthplace of Porsche,but i'm sure you know.The 944 is a great Car i love it,greeetings from Austria.

[@lastrasp]

G’day Bernd! Yes I’m certainly aware of the Gmund history with Porsche. The sweater is from ‘Period Correct’ who have some great Porsche gear that’s subtle enough to wear without people knowing it’s Porsche gear! Really appreciate you commenting. Hope you’re enjoying the festive season.

[@vividerimp6488]

Would you say this is a good first car? And how much should I pay for one?

[@lastrasp]

Could definitely be a good first car as there are cheap ones around. BUT don't forget that service, parts and repairs will still be comparatively expensive.

[@ilymorethanurexdid]

What is the song in the intro

[@lastrasp]

Racing Hearts by Mattie Maguire 👍🏼

[@less_vanity5820]

Do you know by chance which steering wheel is this? I really like how it fits in. Thx.

[@lastrasp]

Hey there Anton. It's a 993 RS Steering Wheel. I've not been a big fan of them in the past but, like you, I really like how this one fits into the later 944 interior. Looks right at home.

[@zestydude87]

take a drive in the turbo version and youll never want to get out of the car! I know because I own one...

[@lastrasp]

Haha. Would love to have a go in a Turbo!

[@1NVA1N]

I WANT THIS CAR AS MY FIRST CAR

[@lastrasp]

Love this passion and enthusiasm!!! If you got a good one, it’d be a great first car. The only thing that might trip you up is cost of repairs. I bought a 76 targa in my early 20’s (they were dirt cheap back then) but couldn’t afford the servicing. So set a bit extra aside for that and you’ll be in great shape!!

[@moonstryder1740]

@@lastrasp hell no, how could you recommend this as a 1st car? It'll be dinged on a weekly basis and for a kid to maintain it? He should get a 10-20yo vw or japanese daily driver with good mileage. Unless you have more money than you should, avoid giving a child this. And yes 18 is a child.

[@Theseusmtb]

Who else looked this is because their dad has one sitting on brick's in the back yard and your gonna restore it... Me lol

[@lastrasp]

Hahaha. Classic!

[@mikechan231]

Funny, I thought it was the other way around- that the 944 was great to drive, just not as “cool” as its big bro 911.

[@lastrasp]

Interesting. Had you driven both?

[@mikechan231]

@@lastrasp I wish, no, this was from other people doing reviews.

[@dougantelman2369]

Put a 928 motor in it

[@Russell_and_Rosko]

They’re really heavy. over 600 lbs. Pulling 100 lbs from the nose of the car transforms the handling and makes the car feel light on its toes with a lot less understeer....btw, understeer is NO fun.

[@lastrasp]

Haha. Would be an interesting proposition!

[@lastrasp]

Yeah I’ve always been okay with a bit of understeer - as long as it’s predictable - but must confess I’d like it a little more pointy now.

[@AutoAmateur]

Ohhhhhh the Boxster owners are gonna be p*ssed. 😄

[@lastrasp]

Hey, don't blame me; it's what every Boxster owner I know calls them! Who am I to go against the masses??? 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@shun-kungamer1528]

My parent buy that car for me it's only 9000$ it's already used

[@lastrasp]

That’s so cool mate! Super lucky for you. Hope you’re enjoying it.

[@shun-kungamer1528]

@@lastrasp thx man

[@ricoxxx6798]

I would sell the wife b4 i sell my porsche 944 #PorscheTheresNoSubstitute

[@lastrasp]

Bwahah. Hope your wife isn’t logged into your KZbin account!

[@trustmeiknowwhatimdoing3720]

WTF is that "auto coupe" shit???

[@lastrasp]

One of the leading Independent Porsche specialist service centers in Melbourne who were kind enough to lend me the car.