[many944s]

*BEWARE*

I got just as lucky!?! When I picked up an 83 944 about a year ago.

If it has been sitting for that long, you are looking at replacing the the following parts:
Timing belt
Balance shaft belt
hoses

And possibly:
waterpump
front seals
rollers
ignition wires
tires

I know it sounds like a great bargain at the time, but there is definitely a chance when getting into an earlier 944 like this, that it could end up being a money pit! There are several other things to consider if you are planning on selling it in the long run... Is it an automatic or Manual trans? If it is an Auto, good luck getting your money back out of it, as they are alot harder so sell. Would you be doing to repair work on the car, or are you going to pay a shop to do it?

Unfortunately, there is no real way of knowing what your getting into until you have a chance to inspect the car. And if you do get it re-keyed, I would triple check your timing belt before even trying to turn it over! Keep in mind when these timing belts let go, you are looking at replacing the valves, and possible pistons and the head itself.

Having said all of that, I am not trying to discourage you! In fact I would say go for it! If you can get it for less than $500 it could definitely be worth it, you may get lucky and have a real nice flip on your hands. And if it looks like a nightmare, then your only out a few hundred....

Good luck,
-Nick