The Porsche 944, known for its comfort and fuel efficiency, is a sports car that could achieve close to 30 mpg (7,84 l/100 km) on the highway. However, this vehicle demands meticulous maintenance, with frequent timing belt servicing and a propensity for water pump failures and electrical issues. Even experienced DIY mechanics find it challenging to work on.
Surprisingly, despite its astronomical mileage, this particular Porsche 944 appears to be in remarkably good shape. The body remains straight and rust-free, though a fresh coat of paint wouldn't hurt. While the sunroof shows signs of wear and requires attention, the interior is unexpectedly clean, surpassing cars with a mere fraction of its mileage.
Yet, two significant issues stand out: the car refuses to start, and the clutch is non-existent. These are undeniable red flags. The Porsche 944 possesses an interference engine, meaning that if the timing belt snaps, pistons and valves collide. Moreover, the rear transaxle connected to the engine via a torque tube, a feature providing exceptional handling, adds complexity and cost to replacing the clutch.
Nevertheless, this Porsche 944 with 571,000 miles piques interest. Randy, host of the popular Auto Auction Rebuild YouTube channel, sees potential in this vehicle. At the right price, it could become an excellent Lemons racer. Even if the engine is beyond repair, numerous intriguing options exist. Enthusiasts have experimented with installing engines such as the Toyota 2JZ inline-six, the Mitsubishi 4G63 turbo four-cylinder, and even a turbocharged Buick V6.
Source: Motor1
