Porsche Enthusiasts Club Forum

Hi, I'm thinking of treating myself to a Porsche. Don't get me wrong, I'm not rich, I'm a carpenter. I've always had ford capri

But I fancy a change, what would be a good starter Porsche? Not loads of money either

Thanx for looking Mark

Hi, Mark,
I peronally would recommend the 944 S2 3 litre with a comprehensive service history from someone who has owned the car for a few years.
Loads of fun.....
Having gone through the mill of running a 924 Lux; early 944 2.5 and finally a 944 S2 - it has got to be a 944 S2 for me.
Best of luck in finding what you want.
Bob

You'd be better off getting out there and driving a few. Even sitting in the passenger seat gives you an idea of ride height and feel. We sometimes get people asking for a look round on a club night, the guys love talking about their cars and love showing them to people. Roy took someone out in his slightly modified car a few months ago. I can't remember who it was, but it went down a treat. Just to throw a cat amongst the pigeons, I preferred the 2.5 Lux to drive. If I hadn't tried both, I'd never have know and can't explain why.

Read the buyers guide ( sticky at the top of the 944 forum ) and choose a good one. If you get the right car, you will love it.

7 years ago I was in the same position and spent months researching on what model to go for (books out the library etc)
924 924S 944 2.5 2.7 944S? 944S2 944Turbo (220 or 250?) 968 928 (£££) did try a 911 but preferred the drive of the front engine models.
Joined both clubs to get as much info as possible, also a source of 2nd hand cars from members who upgrade (they have usually been well looked after -the cars that is!).

I started with a 944 (2.7) 6yrs ago & loved it (& got hooked!) {purchased from a Tipec member}
I also loved its beautiful replacement, a 944 S2 Cab and
I really really LOVE its replacement my 944 Turbo (tastefully tweeked!) but sadly now for sale.

Depends on your budget but as previously mentioned See if you can get a ride in a few Members cars/discuss pros & cons at a Club meet! (Shows etc) or Track Day.

The S2 does have plenty of Torque & the Coupe (IMHO) is a Better Ride than the Cab. I really appreciate the looks of the 968 but 5 years ago finally decide to get a modified Turbo as I had been really impressed with the performance (+simpler 8 valve single cam design). The Turbo can be modified at reasonable cost, are very tractable when not on boost, so can be leisurely or exciting!
Have a look at Hartech web site for a Very good technical background to the 944/968 models - very enlightening.
I also contacted JMG for advice, well known for their 944 Turbo projects, my preference is obviously the Turbo.

Most important, as also mentioned is the recent history, these old cars do need a lot of TLC and can cost a lot if not purchased wisely
Good luck and enjoy the ride (btw its addictive and you get loads of smiles per mile!)
Clive

Thank you all,i did read what you all had to say and found it very interesting!!!

I ended up buying a 1986 928 with 122,000 miles on the clock with lots of history 12 months MOT and 6 Months tax.
she drove fantastic, unyil the central warning light came on and i had to have her towed home

Once again Many thanx guys

Hi Mark,
I would have suggested you start with the simplest Porsche (924 Lux) and worked your way up......

You have gone straight for 'Super Car' ownership and the potential costs, I hope this doesn't put you off!

I admit the 928 later models are my favorite Porka's but I have not yet had the guts to move up. I'm scared by every bill having one or two '0's added to my bill. I get nearly 35 MPG, £120 insurance, just had a steering rack replaced for £50.

You have bought a seriously expensive car at what is it's lowest market value Keep smiling and enjoy every mile.

Oh yes.....my Father always said...Your a long time dead

Enjoy and take me for a spin

Did you try re-setting the central warning light before the tow home?