Legendary 1983 Porsche 944: A Timeless Classic
Meet this legendary 1983 Porsche 944, a symbol of vintage class and sporty sophistication. Sold initially by Manhattan Porsche in Rockville, Maryland, this gem stayed with its original owner until 2019 before making an appearance on BaT in October that year. Cloaked in an all-black ensemble—shiny black exterior and black vinyl combined with tastefully striped cloth interior—this beauty is driven by a 2.5-liter inline-four engine linked to a five-speed manual transaxle, not to mention its limited-slip differential.
What else comes in this delightful package? A flurry of exciting features, including iconic pop-up headlights, a sun-kissed sunroof, a sleek rear spoiler, nifty 15″ cookie-cutter alloy wheels, as well as a rather enchanting Blaupunkt cassette stereo to keep you entertained as you cruise. And let’s not forget the power windows and crisp air conditioning. The selling dealer acquired this treasure trove by 2024, offering it up with no reserve. Plus, you get a set of workshop manuals, a Carfax report, and a neat Pennsylvania title to boot.
Unveiling the Beauty
Sporting the definitive black (L041) exterior, this Porsche boasts mesmerizing pop-up headlights, fog-lights that cut through mist like butter, a sunroof for those sunny delight drives, and a rear spoiler atop the iconic rear window wiper. Beware, a June 2023 Carfax entry mentions an accident with resulting damage to the left rear. But fear not—the paintless dent repair worked its magic, and the quarter panel stone guard faced a revamp.
“In 1983, Porsche took a step forward with the 944, blending sophistication and performance in a way few could imagine.”
Wheel and Brake Combo
The ride sits atop 15″ cookie-cutter alloy wheels, with 215/50 Sumitomo HTR A/S P02 tires yearning for replacement. Meanwhile, stopping power comes from power-assisted ventilated discs at all four corners, with refreshed rotors added in 2022.
Interior Vibes and Condition
Moving inside, you find yourself pampered by front bucket seats alongside contoured rear seats, dressed in black vinyl with those striped cloth inserts. A small touch of modernity touches the air conditioning system, now accustomed to R134a refrigerant. Not to mention, the power windows and that ever-nostalgic Blaupunkt cassette stereo round out the package.
The Thrill of the Drive
Aboard the leather-wrapped steering wheel lie a 170-mph speedometer, tachometer, and sundry auxiliary gauges. A staple feature—the five-digit odometer—displays 36k miles, with a fresh speedometer cable fitted in September 2023.
Under the Hood: Power and Performance
Nested under the hood, the water-cooled 2.5-liter M44 inline-four engine showcases Bosch engine management, with factory specs boasting 143 horsepower and 137 lb-ft of torque. Heistand Automotive in Manheim, Pennsylvania, oversaw a comprehensive service visit in September 2019, touching base on the timing belt, water pump, thermostat, crankshaft sensors, fuel pump, filter, and sending unit. The current owner made sure to switch out the hood insulation pad along with the oil.
A Smooth Drive
Power flows to the rear wheels seamlessly through a charming five-speed manual transaxle, paired with a limited-slip differential—a true driving enthusiast’s delight.
“Porsche’s timeless engineering, like that of the 944, has carved its name into the hearts of car enthusiasts far and wide.”
Decoding the Details
Oh, and we couldn’t resist listing what the option sticker had to say:
- 220 – Locking differential 40%
- 418 – Side protection moldings
- 455 – Wheel locks
- 526 – Cloth door panels
- 533 – Alarm
- 567 – Top-tinted windscreen
In the realm of classic cars, this 1983 Porsche 944 emerges as a true warrior, defying age and maintaining its beguiling charm while whispering the thrill of speed and the joy of discovery.