Looking to buy an 85

[JayJ]

Hi Guys, I came over from the 911 bbs. Im looking at an absolutely mint 1985 944. Its had a 4k guards red paint job, the body is as straight as an arrow. Its got a moonroof(did they all have one?)and the interior is like new. The only downfall is that the dash is full of suncracks.Its got 80,000 miles and the guy wants 6000 US for it. He just had the timing belt changed a month ago. My porsche experiences have only been with 911s so I need your help! Is this a fair deal? What should I look out for on this car? it has the cookie cutters. Didnt these cars come with fuchs?

[Panzer909]

Sounds good so far. '85s came with a moon roof and yes, cookie cutters were standard. Fuchs were an optional extra. By the way - did the PO have the water pump and rollers changed with the belts while they were at it?

Be sure to check the coolant and oil for mixing. These cars are notorious for the oill seals to fail. Also be sure to have the PO confirm when/if the motor mounts were replaced. Yet another 944 issue.

Regarding the dash, there are carpet kits to cover it (very ugly IMO) or a plastic cover. I know a guy who did the latter, and it came out pretty decent. If you want to replace the OEM dash, beware - they go for about $900!

Nevertheless, be sure to have him produce extensive records (as all used cars go). But sounds like it might be a good deal. I'd still get the price closer to 5k, though

[Z-man]

Jayj:
A couple of questions:
1. Is it an early-model-85 or late-model-85? (The later model 85's have a more rounded dashboard)
2. Has the clutch been replaced? If not, it probably has to soon. (Rubber center of the clutch hub deteriorates after about 10 years)
Since he didn't mention anything of it to you, it's probably original and will need replacing. That's about a $1000 to $2000 repair!
3. Why was the car repainted? (repainted cars scare me: paint hides a multitude of sins...)
4. Any maintenance records?

As with all used cars, get a pre-purchase inspection done to check everything out. If the car checks out, at least you'll have less surprises...

A 1985 944's values are:
Kelly Blue book: $2375.00 to 4275.00
Excellence (04-01 issue): $3953.00 to 6016.00

All of the 944's came with a sunroof. Make sure the micro-switches are working properly for both tilt and remove functions: these have been also prone to early failure.

At $6k, I think the guys asking too much, espeically with the repaint and the questionable clutch.

Just my $0.42.
-Zoltan.