Porsche 944 Turbo S

vs

Shelby Series 1

Germany vs USA — 1988 vs 1999

Porsche 944 Turbo S (1988)
Shelby Series 1 (1999)
Specifications
944 Turbo S 951Series 1 Supercharged
Horsepower250 hp450 hp
Torque258 lb-ft380 lb-ft
Engine Size2,479 cc3,990 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec3.9 sec
Top Speed162 mph175 mph
¼ Mile13.8 sec12.3 sec
Weight2,976 lbs2,750 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,489 mm
Length4,213 mm4,191 mm
Units Produced1,635249
Original MSRP$48,550$107,982
Value (Excellent)$110,000$250,000
Collectibility8/107/10
Rarity7/109/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1999 Shelby Series 1 Supercharged with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S 951 offers stronger collectibility, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between Germany and USA automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S 951 versus 1999 Shelby Series 1 Supercharged is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1999 Shelby Series 1 Supercharged holds a clear advantage in raw power with 450 hp compared to 250 hp, a 200-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 944 Turbo S uses a Inline-4 SOHC 8V Turbocharged displacing 2,479 cc, while the Shelby Series 1 relies on a V8 DOHC Supercharged with 3,990 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1999 Shelby Series 1 Supercharged edges ahead at 3.9 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. The Shelby Series 1 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 226 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 249 units built, the 1999 Shelby Series 1 Supercharged is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 944 Turbo S's 1,635 examples. On the collector market, the 1999 Shelby Series 1 Supercharged commands a significant premium over the 1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S 951, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.