[OmniGLH]

So I've been a Porsche fan my whole life... and started seriously considering buying my first one about a year ago. Finally got the career where it needs to be, have some extra cash kicking around, etc. Was in the market for an air-cooled car. Shopped around a bit, did a TON of reading, and *almost* pulled the trigger a few times. Looked at a few 911SCs, a 964 Targa, a 993 cab, and a new Boxster S (yes I know it's water cooled.) Loved them all tho my favorite was probably a toss up between the 993 and 987S. I liked the fact that they were just a little more comfortable and user friendly... not as crude and rough as the older 911 was.

I've always had a soft spot for the 944 though. I like the punched out fenders, the improved practicality over the 911 or Boxster, and they're a little more rare to see on the road (IMO). They're not flashy like the 911, either (personally I don't like flash or attention much.) I've driven a few base 944s and always liked their direct, balanced feel.

Came across an '86 944 Turbo on Craigslist today. Local, and turns out he works for the same company I do - I have weekly meetings in a conference room a few doors down from his cube. He's a big 944 nut, this is the 5th he's owned, and he also has a 968 that he plans on keeping. 86k miles, he's the 3rd owner. Has all receipts for the car *since new* and has owned it since 2002. Looks like it's in good shape from the pics. Few rock chips and the driver's seat bolster shows some wear but otherwise looks to be in really good shape. Recently installed Koni adjustables, Mintex brake pads, a few odds and ends (TPS, oil pressure sensor.) Otherwise stock. Clear title (in-hand).

Due for a timing belt (was last changed at 60k), front main seal just started leaking a little, and needs front ball joints.

I've got another email in to him asking about any water leaks (I guess it's common for the hatch and sunroof to leak), if/when the water pump was replaced, and what kind of shape the clutch is in.

He's asking $6k, but has already told me he's open to negotiation regarding the stuff the car needs to help facilitate a sale to a "good home." I already spoke to an independent Porsche service shop out here (that came recommended by the local PCA chapter) and they quoted me right around $1200 including parts and labor to fix the 3 issues listed above. The owner is moving out of state to go back to school in the next few weeks and is in a hurry to sell it.

I plan to check the car out Friday night after work, and if it looks good, have the owner take it in to the aforementioned shop for a PPI. If they don't find anything major, and assuming the car is in reasonably decent shape cosmetically, I might come up with an offer.

It's just going to be a weekend toy kinda thing (well, next to the bike) so I won't be completely dependent on it. I don't mind if it's going to need some odds and ends here and there - I'm mechanically inclined and don't mind working on stuff (plus my 3 y/o is fascinated with anything I do in the garage, so if I have to do some stuff, then it just means I get to spend quality time with him too!) But I also don't want to buy a car that's gonna be down more than up... I definitely prefer driving to fixing. I've read the 944 FAQ, a few buyers guides throughout the web, and have been poking through the forums here and at Rennlist. I haven't seen too much that suggests these cars are especially maintenance intensive or problematic (tho I've talked to a few people who "know someone who knew someone who knew someone who had nothing but problems with their 944...")

So whaddya think? How bad are these things? Is there anything else I should look for/ask about/beware of?

Thanks!!!

-Jim