The Porsche 944 S2 arrived in 1989 as the ultimate naturally aspirated version of the popular transaxle sports car. It replaced both the 944 S and the 944 Turbo, combining the Turbo's smoother bodywork, brakes, and chassis with a new, larger engine. The S2's main attraction is its 3.0-liter inline-4, which was one of the largest production four-cylinder engines of its day, producing a healthy 208 hp with a broad, usable torque curve.
Collectors prize the S2 for offering a near-perfect blend of performance and drivability. It delivers power that's close to the original Turbo but in a more linear, responsive fashion, making it a fantastic car for both spirited backroads and daily use. It's often considered the most refined model in the 944 lineup, offering a high-quality interior and balanced handling without the Turbo's maintenance complexity. The introduction of a factory-built Cabriolet also adds to its appeal.
The market for the 944 S2 has strengthened considerably as enthusiasts recognize its unique place in Porsche history. Once an overlooked bargain, clean, well-maintained examples are now seeing significant appreciation. With an average sale price around $19,700, they represent a solid value, though exceptional low-mileage cars, particularly Cabriolets, can sell for over $50,000.
Buying Tips
- The 3.0-liter engine requires a timing belt and water pump service every 4 years or 45,000 miles. It's a critical, interference engine, so verify service history or budget for the job immediately.
- Power steering leaks are common from the pump, reservoir, and lines. Check for wetness and fluid residue in the engine bay, as repairs can be time-consuming.
- The clutch is an expensive and labor-intensive component to replace. During the test drive, ensure it engages smoothly without slipping under acceleration.
- On Cabriolet models, thoroughly inspect the condition of the fabric top and test the power operation. The complex mechanism is known for issues that can be costly to sort out.
- Original dashboards are very prone to cracking from sun exposure. A crack-free dash is a huge bonus, as replacements are expensive and dash covers are a common workaround.
Prices for the 944 S2 range from approximately $5,300 for projects to $70,000 for pristine, low-mileage examples.
545 Porsche 944 S2 vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 86 currently live.
Data sourced from Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, eBay Motors, PCarMarket, and Collecting Cars. Updated daily.
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