Porsche 944 Turbo S

vs

Porsche 944 Turbo

Germany vs West Germany — 1988 vs 1986

Porsche 944 Turbo S (1988)
Porsche 944 Turbo (1986)
Specifications
944 Turbo S 951944 Turbo Turbo S (951)
Horsepower250 hp250 hp
Torque258 lb-ft258 lb-ft
Engine Size2,479 cc2,479 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec5.5 sec
Top Speed162 mph162 mph
¼ Mile13.8 sec13.8 sec
Weight2,976 lbs2,976 lbs
Wheelbase2,400 mm2,400 mm
Length4,213 mm4,200 mm
Units Produced1,63512,936
Original MSRP$48,550$40,950
Value (Excellent)$110,000$90,000
Collectibility8/107/10
Rarity7/106/10
The Verdict

Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S 951 excels in greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1986 Porsche 944 Turbo Turbo S (951) stands out for quicker acceleration. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.

Overview

Tracing the evolution of the Porsche 944 Turbo S from 1988 to 1986 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Porsche. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S 951 producing 250 hp and the 1986 Porsche 944 Turbo Turbo S (951) delivering 250 hp. 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 Porsche 944 Turbo relies on a Inline-4 SOHC Turbo with 2,479 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1986 Porsche 944 Turbo Turbo S (951) edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,635 units built, the 1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S 951 is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 944 Turbo's 12,936 examples.