Daily Pick: 1987 Porsche 944S

back in timePorsche has always launched an entry-level car that brings people into the family at an affordable price. Someone might really want a 911, but can only afford it at a lower price. It didn’t give them their “dream car,” but it allowed them to still have a Porsche. I don’t know what happened, but Porsche seems to have abandoned this strategy and adopted an almost Ferrari marketing strategy where all their cars are quite expensive.

That’s a shame, because some affordable cars like the original Boxster, 914, 912 and 924/944 cars were not only fun to drive, but also extremely well built. For many, they are a great entry point into the brand.

Case in point, our Daily Pick, this 1987 Porsche 944S featured on ClassicCars.com.

The 944S was Porsche’s second economical car in the 1980s. However, this is a standard 944 car, and instead of the usual 214 hp 2.5 liter inline 4 engine, a twin cam cylinder head has been added, which means an increase to 188 hp, giving even more power to an already great chassis Improved 0-60 performance and top speed.

This example is one of these improved cars and I think it’s the best choice of the entire 944 series.

The seller says this 944S is in good condition. They said the odometer stopped working at 84,970 miles on February 1, 2022, which is a common problem with these cars but easily corrected. They went on to say they put another 1,500-2,000 miles on it.

This example comes equipped with a sunroof, a leather interior in excellent condition, no dash cracks (another common 944 problem), and a replacement Pioneer receiver, with the original radio still available.

They went on to say that the original burgundy paint was in excellent condition with only a few very minor repairs and no dents. They also said they were just starting to see some delamination on the windshield and rear window (another common problem).

What I like most about this 944S is its service history. The owner stated that the car received a new timing belt, water pump, valve cover gasket, tires, battery, oil sender, oil pressure relief valve modified to R134 in May 2021, and plug wires. In March 2022, the vehicle received a new motor mount, AC capacitor, and auxiliary belt tensioner.

In my opinion, this is a 944 worth buying. I say that because many cars have been totaled, but this car looks like a great example.

A few years ago, my best friend Trent and I drove a low-mileage 944 from Connecticut to Monterey Car Week and had no problems with the car. This car is great fun to drive, fast enough for highway fun, and far more comfortable than any 911 I’ve owned. If you want to own a classic Porsche, the 944 is a great place to start. At just $21,500, it’s a great deal for a very nice Porsche GT car. Sure, you can buy a Boxster or a 914, but these classic Porsche transaxle cars are truly special and the company will never produce them again. Remember Joel Goodson’s risky business“Porsche: Irreplaceable.”

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