Introduced in the US in 1982 as a 1983 model, it was meant to be the entry level Porsche. It was a big step up from the 924, which it replaced in the US lineup. The 944, unlike the 924, had a real Porsche engine. It was also better equipped and better trimmed than the 924.
These early 944s are overshadowed by the later 944 Turbo and 944S, but they're still fun cars. O-60 comes in less than 9 seconds and the 944 has a top speed of over 135 MPH. Handling is very good thanks to it having a rear transaxle and near perfect 50/50 weight distribution.There aren't a whole lot of things that go wrong with these cars. Leaky sunroofs are common as are cracked dashboards. Early cars, like this one, had problems with the clutch, but by now the clutches in most early cars have been replaced with the updated version from Porsche. The engine in the 944 has a timing belt and most Porsche experts recommend that it be replaced every 45,000 - 50,000 miles. If you buy a used 944 and can't get verification of a recent timing belt change, just assume it's been awhile and replace the belt. It could save you a lot of money in the long run. (Valves being introduced to pistons is never pretty - or cheap.)
This 944 is being offered by a dealer in Georgia. It looks to be in amazingly nice condition There appears to be no rust and the interior looks to be in nice overall shape. It has just 67,518 miles on it.The asking price for this car is on the high side but - given the how expensive Porsche parts are - if it's a turnkey car that needs no work, it may be worth the price.
Located in Cartersville, GA, at a place called Autos For Less in Georgia, click here to see their ad. (Check out their site, too. They have some pretty nice - mostly late model - cars on their lot.)