Guys, I'm looking at 944's currently and - as I haven't had the chance to drive one yet - wanted some thoughts and advice from those who have. I love pcars and will acquire a 911 down the line, but would like to own a 944 now - I've always loved their style (a product of the 80s, I guess).
Anyway, I'm currently on my 2nd Ford SVT Focus and love the car (will *not* be selling it). What I'd like is a 944 that can meet or exceed the performance and driving characteristics of my SVT Focus.
The Focus, for those who don't know, weighs in at 2750lbs and peaks at 170hp @7000rpm (7800 redline). Torque is 145lb-ft @5500 all from a 2.0L 4 banger. Braking is excellent with 11.8" discs up front and 11" in the rear. Performance figures are:
0-60 in 7.3s, 1/4-mi in 15.7s @88.4mph, 60-0 braking in 119', the 200' skidpad at .86g and the 490' slalom at 47.3mph (current gen 911 Carrera does it at 47.5mph).
I know the 944 is 20 years older, but which model will meet or beat my little SVT Focus?
'83-'86: 2.5L, 150hp @5500, torque rating?, ~2650lbs
'87-'88: 2.5L, 158hp @5900, tq?, ~2650lbs
'89: 2.7L, 162hp @5800, tq?, ~2650lbs
Will any of these three reach my goals or is the turbo model really where I need to be (although cost would, most likely, be an issue)?
Re: budget, I'm thinking $6K tops.
Any help is appreciated!
-Matt