1990 Porsche 944S2 Cabriolet

Like the Volkswagen Cabrio, the 944S2 Cabriolet isn’t a car that gets a lot of press on these pages. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have the makings of a classic. Like the Cabrio, it sold in small numbers in the tight times of the early 1990s; Porsche claims it sold only 2,386 in the United States. And it has a potent power plant in the revised 3.0 16V inline-4; pushing 207 horsepower and 208 lb.ft of torque, it was nearly as potent as the first generation Turbo without the inherent lag or accompanying bills. Yet it shared the same perfect weight balance with the rear-mounted transaxle, Turbo brakes and larger roll bars along with the integrated Turbo-look nose and tail. The S2 also received the new “Design 90” wheels that helped to bring it in line with late 928S4 and 964 models.

However, the 944S2 Cabriolet has always been overshadowed. First, for the sporting drivers out there, most will be seeking the clean lines of the S2 Coupe. Then there is always the more popular 911 Cabriolet, but it’s real competition is the later 968 Cabriolet. With more power, revised looks and a 6-speed manual, those late 968s are by most accounts the ones to get. But to me, that means that a clean 944S2 is a better value while offering you most of the experience of the VarioCam. Let’s consider this beautiful Cyclamen Red Metallic example:

CLICK FOR DETAILS: 1990 Porsche 944S2 Cabriolet on eBay

Year: 1990
Model: 944S2 Cabriolet
VIN: WP0CB2945LN481573
Engine: 3.0 liter inline-4
Transmission: 5-speed manual
Mileage: 67,545 mi
Location: Plainview, New York
Price: $17,800 Buy It Now

1990 Porsche 944 S2

1990 Porsche 944 S2 Cabriolet finished with a Burgundy exterior and Linen leather interior. Driven just 67,545 miles since new. Options on this 944S2 include a 5-speed manual transmission, power convertible top, alloy wheels, leather seats and much more.

This 944S2 just underwent a complete oil and fluid service within the last 20 miles and it drives even better than it looks. The 4 cylinder engine is strong and powerful and the 5-speed manual transmission shifts properly through all of the gears. The steering is tight and precise and the brakes feel just great. All of the electronics are working as they should be.

The interior is really nice. The Linen Grey leather seats are in excellent condition (see pictures) showing just minimal wear to the seats. The dashboard looks great and even the carpets are very nice thanks to the Porsche floor mats that have been protecting them.

The exterior is what really sets this particular Porsche apart from the rest. The paint is bright and shiny with plenty of luster. The Black power convertible top is like new and even the alloy wheels are in excellent condition and are mounted on great tires.

The 1990 Porsche 944S2 really is the ultimate European roadster. It has fantastic looks and performance, a power convertible top for top down fun along with all of Porsche’s legendary safety, luxury and reliability. The only real “apologies” to this 944S2 are a few typical nicks that are to be expected on any used car. Please feel free to call me (Matt 516-658-4048) with any additional questions you may have.

What we have here it a perfection combination; a great driver, a great color combination, great condition, lower miles, and an affordable price. Seriously, I wonder how long these 944S2 Cabriolets will continue to be overlooked. I do believe this car has had paint work; it looks a little too shiny and the rear badge is missing, but it is still wearing stone guards (though they are replaceable), so perhaps I’m wrong. Spend a little more up front to get preventative maintenance cared for, and this one looks like a winner for under $20,000.

-Carter