Thoughts on a 951?

[ZOO]

A friend has a "well-sorted" 951 for sale. I would be using it primarily for HPDE events. Thoughts? Not about maintenance or watch-fors, but just general observations. My current HPDE cars include a Lotus Elise, an E36 M3, and an NA Miata.

[VincentVega]

maintenance or watch-fors

Isnt that what 951's are most known for? Fast, fun cars when they arent under the knife.

[MarkRobinson]

Incredible cars for the $. Much more power, torque than the other cars listed in your "included".

I have a well-sorted one for sale for $15,5k with spares, & a widebody-gutted car for $7k if your deal falls through.

[onewhippedpuppy]

I really enjoyed mine, but it did require lots of tinkering. Mostly little issues, if I bought another I would replace every hose under the hood and be much happier. Mine had the usual mild bolt ons as well as a chip, and was a rocket above 3000 RPM. The turbo lag is annoying around town but it sounds like that wouldn't be a big issue for you. Very well made cars, very good suspension and brakes from the factory. Overall I think it's hard to get more performance for the money.

[MarkRobinson]

Agreed with the above.

However, the turbo lag helps you stay passive in the city & get better mileage.

[Z-man]

Shameless plug:

I am looking to sell my 944S2. Well sorted with a good track suspension (everything upgraded - 400lb springs front, camber plates...etc.). Perfect to DE's. PM me if you are interested. I bit down on power compared to the 951, but that low end-torque of the 3.0 liter 4-banger is addictive...

That said -- the 944 line is a bit long in the tooth now -- if you find one that has all the suspension components upgraded, that is definately a plus. Putting a car through its paces with a 25 year old suspension is not a good idea...

-Z-man.

[scottmandue]

If I hit the lotto I will be PMing you Z.

I have not driven the other cars on your list... but I will say this, driving my 944 is the most connected I have ever felt to a car and the road... the most fun I have ever had with my cloths on.... maintaining it, not so much.

However if you keep up on the maintenance (my downfall) they are great little cars (IMHO).

[Dantilla]

Originally Posted by Z-man

I am looking to sell my 944S2. ... I bit down on power compared to the 951, but that low end-torque of the 3.0 liter 4-banger is addictive...

Stock S2 can run similar lap times to a stock 951, depending on the track.

S2 is easier to maintain, 951 can be modded to get serious hoesepower.

Both make wonderful track cars.

[Z-man]

Originally Posted by scottmandue

If I hit the lotto I will be PMing you Z.

However if you keep up on the maintenance (my downfall) they are great little cars (IMHO).

No need to hit the lotto -- esp. considering that my asking price is half of what was mentioned above. (Looking to get $7k for my car, including spare wheels & tires). I'll even throw in a buffer to shine up the faded red paint!

As far as maintenance goes, indeed - keeping up with the maintenance is key with these cars, especially given their age.

-Z

[Baz]

Question for you 951 & 944S2 guys....I have a full set of factory 951 Fuchs. 7 & 8 x 16" in very good condition. Original black satin petals over factory alloy finish.

My question is - in your opinion....will these Fuchs increase much in value down the road than what they are worth now? I know they are somewhat in demand over other types of Fuchs because of the deep clearance inside.

Yes...I know about the PP Marketplace forum - but just wanted your opinions for now.

Sorry to hijack your thread, Zoo.

[Z-man]

Baz - IIRC, the Fuchs were only made for the 1986 and earlier cars -- and thus, they are what is termed as "early offset" (23mm) wheels. 87 and up 944's (most of the 951's and all of the 944S/944S2's) cannot use them at all. Spacers won't work to make them fit.

So you do have a limited audience for those wheels - that could be good, but that could also be bad from an investment perspective.

-Z-man.