My experiences with Porsche overall is that if you change the oil and filter every 1500 miles, air filters 6 months, change the wires, cap and rotor once a year and replace all the relays at the same time, that the only real problems you run in to are pretty much fluid leaks.
Now, this is my first watercooled Porsche, so I could be way off track - guess time will tell, but I'm expecting that regular maintanence - even when you think the car doesn't need it - pays real dividends when it comes to high $ repairs.
So, the questions.........
Are they showing their age?
Of course - Most 944's were owned by the yuppie set who didn't give a cr*p in the first place. They were driven hard until they broke down and then passed on for a newer car.
My car was previously owned by an enthusiast - the only previous owner, so I know what was done to it and when.
There was only minor neglect really......the AC was redone, the engine and trans rebuilt, etc. The only real issues I have are that my power steering pump is loose, the sunroof doesn't work and one of the power steering lines is leaking (surprise). Everything else is just cosmetic.
Are new owners cheaper?
I'm guessing, yes. I'm sure there are a lot of people out there who loved the cars in the 80's and couldn't afford one back then.
Some may jump at the chance of picking one up for $5-7k without realizing that it's an ongoing cost. Some people also baulk at paying every 30,000 miles for a belt change and major service when the car is "just fine"
Are you being a crabass?
Possibly, but I don't know you well enough to tell LOL
Just my 2¢