944: 1983 to 1991

2-door, 2+2 Coupe. Another front engined 4-cylinder coupe, though this time the 944 was a success, breaking all sales records and keeping Porsche afloat during the 1980s. 924 body and turbo suspension formed the basis, but 944 felt altogether better - more Porsche. Turbo models offer good combination of performance and ability, though the last of the line 16 valve S2 models are probably the better option. Cabriolet offered sleek looks with coupe's performance, though loss of rigidity takes shine of experience. The perfect introduction to the Porsche ownership.

944 - Wheelbase (mm): 2400 - Length./Width (mm): 4213/1735

Significant developments: Body based on the 924 Turbo, as was suspension but used a 4- cylinder 2497cc engine. Brakes came from the 924 Carrera GT.

1985: Major 944 overhaul including new dash, power steering becomes standard. RHD models have left parking wipers. Transmission casing revised. Cast alloy lower wishbones and semi-trailing rear arms standard.

1986: Turbo launched with 2.5 litre engine, gas-filled shocks, anti-roll bars and 4-pot brakes. Power steering standard, redesigned interior.

1987: LSD revised, ABS becomes option as do driver and passenger air bags for Europe . 944S 16v launched using gearbox and driveshafts from Turbo.

1988: Turbo S SE offered with uprated engine, 7 and 9x16" alloys - 16,000 eventually built. 944's engine capacity increased to 2.7 litre by enlarged bore, new block. Celebration SE offered.

1989: 944 gets ABS as standard but then discontinued at end of model year. Turbo gets

Turbo S engine and new rear spoiler. S2 production begins in January 1989, Cabriolet inJuly.

1990: S2 Cabriolet launched (70kg heaver than Coupe).

1991: Turbo Cabriolet launched, airbags standard on European Turbo models accompanied by minor engine tweaks.