Does the Porsche 944 offer the best old-school racing value?

https://www.youtube.com/embed/qcSyNwPilbU

The best bang for your buck when it comes to old-school race cars? How about the Porsche 944?

[First-time Porsche buyer's guide: 5 models perfect for scratching that itch]

Owner Ramsey Potts gives us the rundown on how he transformed this 944 into a capable track car.

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ChrisTropea
ChrisTropea Associate Editor
2/8/23 4:32 p.m.

I may or may not have an alert setup on FB Marketplace for 944's after editing this video. 

Colin Wood
Colin Wood Associate Editor
2/8/23 4:35 p.m.

In reply to ChrisTropea :

I can't explain it, but it just looks right, you know?

preach (dudeist priest)
preach (dudeist priest) SuperDork
2/8/23 4:53 p.m.

I am in the market as well. Mine will not look like that after I am done and will be powered by a 07kT.

AnthonyGS (Forum Supporter)
AnthonyGS (Forum Supporter) UberDork
2/8/23 10:07 p.m.

Nice video but the argument centered around parts availability and the P car community.  I could use the same logic for a C5 or C6 Vette and go faster but the Vette guys dress differently....

David S. Wallens
David S. Wallens Editorial Director
2/8/23 11:03 p.m.

In reply to ChrisTropea :

Good call. I once drove one back from SEMA. No complaints at all. JG can talk 944, too. 

VolvoHeretic
VolvoHeretic HalfDork
2/9/23 12:01 a.m.

Did they ever solve the Nikasil coated cylinder wall nightmare? Along with the Chevy Vega?

Edit: OK, I really don't know anything about Nikasil and only vaguely remember issues with those types of engines.

DirtyBird222
DirtyBird222 PowerDork
2/9/23 10:13 a.m.

Ok hear me out. 94-97 Honda Accord. Made for every major market, lots of engine options, lots of transmission options, double wishbone suspension, dirt cheap, and cool liveries from BTCC and JTCC to knock off. 

 

frenchyd
frenchyd MegaDork
2/9/23 10:54 a.m.

In reply to ChrisTropea :

Not as far as I'm concerned.  I buy rust free mechanically solid Jaguars  for $500.   They are predicable and  durable once you get rid of junky HVAC  stuff and turn them into race cars.   
  If 12 cylinders scare you the 6 is extremely robust and potent.  ( and almost as fast as the 12 )  I personally lack the knowledge on  the newer V8's and Badged English Fords.  But for what others have found,  those  certainly seem to be a good source as well.  

  There is no Porsche premium on used parts.  In fact there are a lot of American parts that are used by the factory  and Jaguar parts in Junkyards  sell cheaper than Chevy's or Fords because of lack of demand.  ( just don't go near the dealers if on a budget).   
     Those dealers command a massive premium for service. Which causes many many solid cars to get prematurely junked.  A typical Jaguar buyer is a poseur rather than a mechanic  so once the new is gone the price drops like a lead ballon.  

While even old Porsche's command a extreme price premium.  
     There are plenty of parts sources for new parts. No, you don't have to order from England.    Plus the Jaguar Forum  is filled with knowledgeable people willing to share that knowledge  and sources.  
   

Olemiss540
Olemiss540 HalfDork
2/9/23 10:59 a.m.

Hard to beat the value prop of an old e36 BMW but I may be biased. Much more readily available, extensive aftermarket, cheap consumables, faster, roomier cabin, and junkyard parts availability.

Not sure what plusses the 944 has except badgestetics.

amg_rx7 (Forum Supporter)
amg_rx7 (Forum Supporter) SuperDork
2/9/23 11:06 a.m.

Shouty sales sounding guy trying to sell you on a Porsche :)

j/k

Id rather go for an equivalent RX7 from that era. 

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