The 944, available from the spring of 1982, quickly captured the hearts of a large community of enthusiasts. “At the heart of the 944 is a sensationally smooth-running, civilised engine whose economy will bring tears to the eyes of oil moguls,” emphasised Motor magazine in a test report. The alloy four-cylinder engine with DME (Digital Motor Electronics), electronic injection and an overrun fuel cut-off device were some of the modifications made for the model year. “No less impressive than the running smoothness of this big 944, however, is its power,” emphasised magazine auto motor und sport, referring in particular to the car’s torque. Others thought the same. “The engine is one of those ones that forgives you when you forget to gear down before overtaking,” praised British magazine Autocar with regard to the generous torque: 205 Nm at 3000 rpm.

The 2+2-seater body, which was very polished in aerodynamic terms, was just as perfect as the engine. To complement its rounded wings, 205/55 VR 16 tyres and alloy Fuchs rims were available as optional extras. A removable roof section was also available as an option.

Engine: Four-cylinder in-line engine, water-cooled, one overhead camshaf
Power: 163 bhp (120 kW) at 5800 rpm
Displacement: 2479 ccm
Fuel system: DME with Bosch L Jetronic and TSZ ignition system, tank capacity 66 litres
Transmission: Five-speed gearbox
Chassis: Integral body frame with independent front wheel suspension with wishbones and suspension struts, stabilisers and longitudinal torsion spring bars, and independent rear wheel suspension with diagonal control arms and transverse torsion bar springs, stabilisers if so required, telescopic shock absorbers
Dimensions and weight: Wheelbase: 2400 mm
Length: 4200 mm
Width: 1735 mm
Height: 1275 mm

Weight: 1180 kg
Performance: 220 km/h