Factory-rated 217bhp turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four
1987 Porsche 944 Turbo '951'

The Greenwich Auction|31 May 2026, 10:00 EDT|Greenwich

1987 Porsche 944 Turbo '951'
VIN. WP0AA2950HN152712

2.5-liter Turbocharged Inline-Four
217bhp at 5,800rpm
Five-Speed Manual Transaxle
Torsion Bar Front Suspension, Torsion Bar Rear Suspension
Four-Wheel Ventilated Disc Brakes

* Finished in desirable Maraschino Red Metallic (LY3V) over burgundy interior
* Factory-rated 217bhp turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four
* Five-speed manual transaxle with near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution

THE PORSCHE 944 TURBO

The idea of evolution rather than revolution, is a mantra that Porsche enthusiasts know all too well. When Porsche introduced their joint-venture 924 in 1976, the machine received positive reviews from critics but was criticized by Porsche enthusiasts for its Audi derived 2-liter engine. Porsche released a widely improved Turbo variant (Type 931), but it carried a higher cost and garnered poor sales. Rather than scrap the design, Porsche developed the Type 944 in 1982, following uniformly from generations of 911s before it.

The re-worked platform carried an inline 2.5 Liter 4-Cylinder, effectively half of the 928's 5.0 V8, while the revised bodywork showcased aesthetic changes similar to that of the 924 Carrera GT. 1986 saw the addition of a turbocharger and intercooler and a new model internally referred to as the Type 951. Power increased more than 50% over standard naturally aspirated cars thanks to the KKK turbocharger, producing 217 horsepower and 243lb ft of torque. In keeping with Porsche's characteristic engineering philosophy, the engine was mounted well behind the front axle and its gearbox positioned at the rear as a transaxle, achieving a weight distribution close to equal. In addition to the engine work, the bodywork was widened to accommodate broader tracks front and rear, the suspension was recalibrated to manage the considerable increase in performance, and the braking system was upgraded to four-piston calipers at each corner. The result was a car that could accelerate from rest to 60mph in under six seconds and reach a top speed approaching 160mph, while remaining tractable and rewarding in everyday use.

The 944 Turbo is one of the most naturally balanced performance cars of its era. Automotive journalists of the period were almost unanimous in their praise, and the passage of time has only strengthened the 951's reputation as one of the most accomplished driver's cars to emerge from Zuffenhausen in the 1980s.

THE CAR OFFERED

Finished in Maraschino Red Metallic, this second year 951 is the perfect enthusiast's car. With one of Porsche's best weight distributions, this 951 disappoints in neither power nor handling. Largely an unmolested survivor, this 951 was purchased approximately 5 years ago from a specialist in Massachusetts. Having recently undergone its belt and water pump service, this turbo is eager to have some miles added to its low but usable 84,000 miles. Some non-original equipment includes its 986 "twist" wheels, a pod filter intake, and a fitment of "comfort" seats that do not have the ungainly, high bolsters of the factory turbo seats. The seats were redone at the time of fitment. Notably after decoding the options tag found under the rear carpet, option code 220 is present denoting that this example was fitted with the very desirable limited slip differential from new. An exciting opportunity for any enthusiast to own a "real" Porsche, ready for whatever summer adventures its new caretaker has in store.

Additional information

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