1989 Porsche 944S2

Pining over visions of just-out-of-budget E30 M3s? I recently covered a low mileage 1988 944 Turbo S, a phenomenal alternative to the E30 that’s – if anything – better built, more capable and faster. In my mind, thought the iconic M3 screams boy racer meets Park Avenue, the 944 – especially in Turbo/S2 guise – looks just as much the part. They’re also quite a bit cheaper right now, but likely not for long – Turbo values have steadily been on the rise, especially for good examples. And while there are plenty of enthusiasts who have daily driven 944 Turbos, you have to admit that they’re the best part of 30 year old technology that you’ll have to sink some money into. For everyday driving, a better option for most people would be to look at the slightly less complicated and only slightly less powerful twin-cam version of the 944; the magnificent 944S2:

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1989 Porsche 944S2 on eBay

Year: 1989
Model: 944S2
Engine: 3.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 85,690 mi
Price: Reserve Auction

This 1989 Porsche 944 S2 is being offered for sale, the best thing about this particular car, is it’s originality, very unmolested, never raced, just driven properly. The only items that have been upgraded are the wheels and the exhaust; wheels are off a 1995 Carrera 911 (authentic Porsche Cup 3), exhaust is a high flow 3″ full stainless steel, with stainless muffler and tip. The condition of the entire car is impressive, considering it’s 25 years old, the Porsche quality is clearly visible, everything works, power windows, side view mirrors, pop-up roof, rear hatch, seats, etc.. Features one year old Cooper Zeon RS3-S tires, condition, new alternator, new battery, new brake pads all four corners (MINTEX), overall this car is a true time capsule, not many available so well maintained as this example.
Powered by the legendary 4 cylinder, 3.0L engine, naturally aspirated, rated at 208 H.P., very reliable, with 5 speed manual transmission, factory BREMBO 4 piston calipers.
The previous owner had the timing belt, rails, water pump, seals, valve cover gasket, and all belts replaced in September 2012, this is a very critical service, which many 944’s are neglected.
The following items are what eventually will need service:
– Clutch: it’s the original unit, therefore, with over 85,000+ miles, it’s starting to show little signs of slipping, specially under hard acceleration, between 1st and 2nd gear.
– Front sway bar bushings: this is a super easy fix, I just haven’t had the time to get to it, bushings are about $25.00/set, labor is less than one hour, weekend garage project.
– Interior courtesy lights: they worked fine when I purchased the car, and about 8 months ago, they quit working, I think is a ground connection, since all bulbs and fuses have been checked, and all are fine.

This car is always a center of conversation, everywhere I go, I get complements, the color combination with Alpine White exterior, Dark Blue interior, is timeless, will never be dated, updated with the 17 in. Cup 3 wheels, staggered, a very cool car indeed.
I purchased this car for my wife and I to drive occasionally on weekends, and we have enjoyed very much, we had it for a little over a year, but now decided to buy a convertible.
Good luck, and thank you for bidding.

So, from what I can tell from the advertisement, it was the previous owner that really took care; if you’re serious about this car, you’ll want to factor in the quite expensive clutch replacement in not far down the line. I’m not sure why you’d list the car with a reported $25 fix incomplete; eat some Ramen for a few nights and get it done. It’s not as if the parts aren’t available and the lack attention to detail on such cars usually points towards lack of care in other areas. Despite this, the car overall presents quite well; the stitching on the passenger seat has separated which is the first time I think I’ve seen that – usually it’s the driver’s seat that’s taken most of the brunt. I’m on the fence about the Cup wheels; I like that they’re OEM but to me they fit the 968 shape much better. I’d probably look to get a set of Design 90s back on there, or maybe the forged Turbo S wheels. Otherwise, this car appears to be a good, solid driver quality car that could easily be taken to the next step on a budget. As of writing, the reserve is still on and bidding has been languishing below $7,000. I’d expect the reserve is set near $10,000 – if you could get this car at that price, I’d consider it very well bought!

-Carter