The Porsche 944 series, a beacon of 1980s sports car engineering, offered a compelling blend of performance and practicality. Within this celebrated lineage, the 944 Turbo S stands out as the most potent and sought-after variant. While the standard 944 Turbo already delivered exhilarating performance, the 944 Turbo S elevated the driving experience to new heights, becoming a legend in its own right.
To truly appreciate the 944 Turbo S, it’s essential to understand its place within the 944 family. The initial 944 Turbo models boasted a robust 220 horsepower, offering a significant step up from the naturally aspirated 944. However, Porsche engineers weren’t content to rest on their laurels. They aimed to create an even more formidable machine, leading to the birth of the 944 Turbo S.
The most significant upgrade in the 944 Turbo S was its enhanced engine. While still based on the 2.5-liter inline-four, the Turbo S variant received a host of modifications that pushed power output to an impressive 250 horsepower. This increase was achieved through modifications such as a larger KKK turbocharger, revised engine management, and improved cooling. This boost in power translated into quicker acceleration and a higher top speed, further solidifying the 944 Turbo S‘s position as a performance leader.
Beyond the engine enhancements, the 944 Turbo S also benefited from other performance-oriented upgrades. A limited-slip differential (LSD) was standard equipment, providing superior traction and handling, particularly in spirited driving scenarios. This was a crucial addition, as it allowed drivers to effectively harness the increased power of the Turbo S engine. In contrast, the LSD was only an option on the contemporary 944 S2 model, highlighting the performance focus of the 944 Turbo S.
When comparing fuel economy across the 944 range, including the 944 Turbo S, it’s interesting to note the real-world figures. Owners often report surprisingly similar fuel consumption between the various models under normal driving conditions. Even with the increased power of the 944 Turbo S, careful driving can yield figures in the high 20s to low 30s MPG on longer journeys. Of course, engaging the turbo and exploring the performance potential will naturally decrease fuel economy, but for everyday driving, the difference between a 944 Turbo S and a standard Turbo or S2 might be less significant than one might expect. This efficiency, combined with performance, makes the 944 Turbo S a surprisingly practical sports car.
The braking system is another area where the 944 Turbo S distinguished itself. While early 944 Turbo models and the 944 S2 shared similar brake setups, the 944 Turbo S was equipped with larger, more robust brakes as standard. These uprated brakes provided enhanced stopping power and improved fade resistance, crucial for a car with the performance capabilities of the 944 Turbo S. It’s worth noting, however, that due to the age of these vehicles, many 944s, including Turbo and S2 models, may have had their brakes upgraded over the years.
Visually, the 944 Turbo S shared many similarities with the later 944 S2 and standard Turbo models. However, beneath the skin, the 944 Turbo S was a significantly different machine. Beyond the engine and brakes already mentioned, differences extended to the gearbox, exhaust system, intercooler, turbocharger itself, compression ratio, cylinder head design, and even subtle aspects of the bodywork and under-car airflow management. These comprehensive changes demonstrate that the 944 Turbo S was not simply a trim level, but a thoroughly engineered performance variant.
When considering purchasing a classic Porsche 944, particularly a 944 Turbo S, the advice remains consistent: prioritize condition over model designation. Rust, especially in known trouble spots, is a major concern and should be thoroughly inspected. Interior and exterior trim condition, along with a comprehensive service history, are also crucial factors. Ideally, look for a car that has undergone proactive mechanical refurbishment and restoration in recent years, indicating a caring owner and addressing potential age-related issues. For a 944 Turbo S, given its rarity and performance pedigree, finding a well-maintained example is even more critical.
In conclusion, the Porsche 944 Turbo S represents the pinnacle of the 944 Turbo lineage. Its enhanced engine, performance-oriented upgrades, and relative rarity make it a highly desirable classic Porsche. While both the standard 944 Turbo and the 944 S2 are excellent cars in their own right, the 944 Turbo S offers a unique blend of performance, exclusivity, and driving pleasure that sets it apart, making it a true icon of its era. For enthusiasts and collectors seeking the ultimate 944 experience, the 944 Turbo S remains the definitive choice.
