Can you afford a 1985-1989 Porsche 944 Coupe?

The 1985-1989 Porsche 944 Coupe is a front-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports car celebrated for its excellent balance and handling, often lauded by critics for its near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution. It gained fame for democratizing the Porsche experience, offering impressive performance and reliability at a more accessible price point than its 911 sibling. While not infamous, some purists initially dismissed its non-rear-engine layout. Today, the 944 remains a fantastic choice for enthusiasts seeking a reliable, engaging, and relatively affordable classic sports car for weekend drives, track days, or even daily spirited commuting.

Operating a 1985-1989 Porsche 944 involves unique considerations. Reliability is generally good for its age, but neglected timing belt replacements are a major concern, potentially leading to catastrophic engine failure; this is a critical, somewhat unusual maintenance cost. Other costs can include rear hatch seals and electrical quirks. Insurance costs are typically moderate for a vintage sports car, not unusually high. Fuel economy is decent for its class. Overall, expect higher maintenance than a modern economy car, but not excessively so if preventative measures are taken.