From BMW to Porsche...have some questions

Jbras14 · 03-02-2003, 08:40 AM

Alright, heres the deal...Im 18 years old, and my family has owned BMW's as long as I can remember. So for my first car I was given a nice 88 535i. I've been working on that car for a while now, but now I'm ready to move onto bigger and better things. I really like the 944 Turbo...my only worry is the cost of repairs..me and my dad have been able to do all of the work on my car up until the transmission went, so small problems wont be a big deal, but Im worried about the bigger ones. From what Ive heard these cars are pretty reliable, no? What are the big things to look out for on these cars? Also, It wont remain stock, can someone give me some good aftermarket sites, and tell me the wheel offset? Sorry for all the questions, Im very anxious to start my search and make my switch of German manufacturers. One more question, what are the best years to look for if any?

EDIT: Are there any differences between the 86 turbo motor and the 88?

Sam Grant · 03-02-2003, 11:07 AM

www.lindseyracing.com
www.speedforceracing.com
huntleyracing.com
www.*****************.com

86 had forged rods, 88 and 89 had a larger turbo "k26/8" rather than a k26/6. the 6 and 8 refer to the hotside of the turbo. Different chips and made about 247hp vs. 220hp for the 86. 87+ got different spindles and have a different offset for wheels than the 86. 86s are lighter due to no airbags or abs. If youre going to heavily modify go with an 86. (cheaper)
They are reliable IF preventive maint. is performed, they can be $$$ when something does go wrong. Get one with all records and get a ppi done before you buy. Make sure to drive a good one so you have a basis to compare. I know I missed alot, but im hungover and tired...
Good luck!

Scott R · Scott R's Garage

Not all 87's have ABS. Try and get an 87 forrward, the suspension upgrades alone are worth it. Not to mention that fact that 87 and up has an automatic belt tensioner for the CAM belt. This greatly reduced CAM belt failure in the later years. CAM belt failure will net you a very expensive repair that includes replacing valves and sometimes the entire head.

wjk_glynn · 03-03-2003, 09:22 AM

Here's a list of general 924/944/968 FAQs:

http://www.weissach.net/924-944-968_FAQs.html

On that page, you'll find a link to a 951 FAQ at:

http://www.clarks-garage.com/951faq.htm

Karl.

Andyrew · Andyrew's Garage

Not to mention, the later 944's have dual air bags (incase dads pitching in on the car)

Oh and has some very good stuff, Danno has(and is working on) the best chips for the 944 turbo that I know of. http://www.gururacing.net/

Good luck

perfecto951 · 03-18-2003, 10:57 PM

Jbras, if you are modding it, go with the 86. From what i understand the belt tensioner would sometimes inaccuratly tension the timing. Either way, ALWAYS have it checked. The 86's are cheaper, and just as enjoyable. Plus, with the extra money you can use that for mods. If you ever get the car, AIM me - i am 19 years old and i thought i was the only kid in GA that was intrested in 951's. good luck pal.