[natey]

Disclaimer: I've only driven the focus SVT once, before I bought my first 944.

I think any of the N/A 944s will about meet the performance of your SVT, engine-wise. HP is very close, and I thought the 944 had nice torque. The 944 doesn't rev quite so high, redline is at 6400(or so?). Factory said 944 0-60 was in the low 8's, but the factory may have actually under-estimated. At least one car magazine tested it at ~7.5. If you like to rev, you may consider a 944S (16 valve 2.5L). It's more maintainence, but it's got an extra 30HP at the top end (and a bit less at the bottom).

Where I think you'll see the biggest difference is in the handling. What I really remember about the SVT was that it felt tall, and "tippy" (just my opinion). The 944 is relatively low, and has less body roll. Factory rated the 944 at .9g on the skidpad, and that was with tire technology from ~1982. 50/50 balance is nice too. I think you'll like the cornering in the 944. Also, the 944 is RWD, so no torque steer.

Can't comment on the brakes, I don't remember either very well...I've been completely spoiled by the brakes in the turbo S, which could stop a freight train.

If you like the performance of the SVT, I think a turbo is more than you need. Find a good N/A and try it. FYI, the engine should rev smoothly, probably on par with the focus. If the 944 is rough, or it vibrates and shakes a lot, it's probably not a good example of the model.