From 1982 to 1991, the 944 brought the transaxle concept to its full potential. Four-cylinder engines—2.5, 2.7, and then 3.0 liters—and formidable Turbo versions, all boasted a clinically precise chassis. It may not have the aura of a 911, but on the road, it can certainly challenge its dominance. Efficient, balanced, and free of unnecessary frills, it's a Porsche for those who truly drive. Its modernity, especially in the second generation, is still striking today. Its iconic 80s look, with its flared fenders, offers great visual satisfaction, particularly in today's automotive landscape.
The Porsche 944 was presented in the fall of 1981 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Designed on the same basis as the Porsche 924, it retains the main aerodynamic lines, but is more muscular with widened fenders, as on the Porsche 924 Carrera GT. Its technical characteristics also incorporate the transaxle architecture, namely an engine in the front position and a gearbox at the rear, ideal for balancing the masses. Porsche will equip it with a 4-cylinder derived from the V8 of the Porsche 928! This 2.5 liter of 163 hp, has balance shafts offering a flexibility close to Flat 6! The Porsche 944 is a GT, capable of great speed on the road. In 1985, the 944 phase 2 made its appearance. Its passenger compartment has been modernized with a new dashboard, its driving position has been improved and the interior finish has improved in quality. The exterior is seen bringing stylistic evolutions, making the design a little more successful. The running gear is improved and under the hood, Porsche will graft a Turbo, transforming its GT into a sports car. The performances are impressive, because they are close to those of the 911! The atmospheric versions will also evolve, with the 944 S 2.5 of 190 hp, the 2.7 of 1989 and its 165 hp and finally, the Porsche 944 S2 with its 4-cylinder 3.0-litre displacement which is neither more nor less than the mass-produced gasoline car with the largest 4-cylinder displacement in the world!
