Porsche 944
The transaxle masterpiece that proved four cylinders could rival the 911.
- Power
- 220 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 5.9 s
- Top speed
- 152 mph
- Est. value
- $18k–$55k
About the Porsche 944
Introduced for the 1986 model year in the US, the 944 Turbo (internal code 951) was the high-performance pinnacle of Porsche's transaxle line. It featured a water-cooled 2.5-litre engine with a KKK turbocharger, producing 220 PS (217 hp in US trim) and offering near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution thanks to its rear-mounted gearbox. The Turbo was distinguished by a smoother, more aerodynamic nose and a rear under-bumper valance, which were later adopted by the S2. Collectors value it for its exceptional handling, which famously led Car and Driver to name it the 'Best Handling Production Car in America'.
Porsche 944 specs
The Porsche 944 produces 220 bhp (164 kW) and 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 152 mph (245 km/h).
| Make | Porsche |
|---|---|
| Model | 944 |
| Trim | 944 Turbo |
| Years | 1985–1991 |
| Type | Sports car |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Germany |
| Production | About 25,245 built |
| Original price | About $30,000 when new |
| Engine | 2.5-litre turbocharged inline-4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,479 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Turbocharged |
| Power | 220 bhp (164 kW) at 5,800 rpm |
| Torque | 330 Nm (243 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 5.9 s |
| Top speed | 152 mph (245 km/h) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,350 kg (2,976 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 163 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Porsche 944 worth?
A typical Porsche 944 is estimated to be worth $18,000 – $55,000 (about £13,000 – £41,000).
Its original price when new was about $30,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Porsche 944 rarity in CarSpot
The Porsche 944 is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 34 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Porsche 944 fun facts
- The 944 Turbo was the first production car in the world to be equipped with a ceramic port liner to reduce engine bay temperatures.
- It was the first car to offer identical power output with or without a catalytic converter, a major engineering feat at the time.
- The 944 Turbo Cup, launched in 1986, was Porsche's first ever one-make racing series, predating the famous Carrera Cup.
