1988 Porsche 944 Value

[jonesb930]

I have an opportunity to buy a 1988 944 (non turbo) that ran when parked about 1-1/2 years ago. It's an automatic car and I wanted to ask what the average values are on these (when all sorted) along with any common issues I may want to look at before I buy it. I know my way around air cooled 911's but have very little experience with the 944's. Any help or incite into the 88 944 would be greatly appreciated!

Bill

[wwdwgs]

Jonesb930,
the automatics are slow and less dynamic, then their stick-shift counterparts. You, being 911 owner, could be disappointed with 94 automatiK performance.
1 - timing and balance belts condition
2 - rear glass hatch/glass separation (mostly visible at the top section of frame (hinge side))
3 - sunroof possible leaks or malfunction
4 - battery area corrosion ? Possible
5 - type of wheels (stock "dials" or others)
6 - check for any evidence of prior accidents (body)
Car's price? from 1000-ish to 5000-ish, I guess.

[walfreyydo]

There are many many variables to consider which we do not have. Prices could be anywhere between $1500 to $10k depending on mileage, condition and previous work performed. Avg condition prices I agree with wwdwgs - most arent going to exceed $5k

[Monkey Wrench]

I would keep looking unless you really want an automatic. likely you'll be into it for another 4K or so just to do upkeep, even if you aren't bent on everything being OEM.

some porches have a rubber center clutch , I think the automatic also had some rubber rot issue,

the engine mounts and fuel lines are things you might look up.

a lot of what you'll face is old rubber parts, some you can get aftermarket, some maybe not.

when I buy old cars I consider th mileage a lot. my 85 has a speedo tht wraps over, I htink its around 16K so probably 116K

the lower the mileage the less everything is worn so I'd pay a little more for one that is a bit lower. usually Ill look at the carpets pedals seats etc, that will often show if its high wear better than the speedo can.

beware this IS an interference engine.

[jonesb930]

Thank you all for the input, with all of this I will be passing on it. The automatic alone had me questioning it, and since my 911 experience has always been with turbo's I feel this would be a real disapointment. It needs a passenger door and fender already, plus all of the unknowns. I just got an update from the seller, it was parked 4 years ago, but he was able to jump start it with some fresh gas. I force lots of issues with it being stored outside in south Florida.

One of these days I'll find a decent turbo car to restore.

Bill

[Dano944]

Originally Posted by jonesb930

One of these days I'll find a decent turbo car to restore.

Bill

At the several shops I’ve used, most do not want to work on Turbo 944’s. I know the Turbos have good power, but still, by today’s standards they’re slow. A newer 5-spd non-Turbo is sporty too. Hey, my ‘83 had only 150hp, but with a 5-spd, it’s fun to drive it through the canyons. As Jay Leno said, it’s more fun to drive a slow car fast, than a fast car slow.

[Monkey Wrench]

big jump in HP between the two, but I still agree with the previous comment.

I might look at things different but i do all my own repair work on a shoestring budget and to me, the less complicated, the better it is for me. I just don't want a fast fashion car that barfs up codes that require a dealer rip me off in order to solve.

[wwdwgs]

MW,
less complicated? and you bought 944, instead of another Volvo (240/244)? ))
Regarding the HP's, you can even feel the difference between 944 and mere 944S.