🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Porsche

Model:

944 Turbo

Model Code:

951

Platform:

Type 944

Generation Code:

G

Engine Code Range:

M44.51, M44.52

Vin Decoder Location:

Dashboard driver's side, door jamb

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Porsche 944 Turbo (951) was positioned as a high-performance, front-engined, rear-wheel-drive sports car, bridging the gap between the standard 944 and the more exotic 911 models of its era. It was a key competitor to cars like the Ferrari 328 GTB and Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1.

Competitors:

Ferrari 308/328 GTB, Lotus Esprit Turbo, Chevrolet Corvette C4, Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo (Z31)

Distinctive Features:

Transaxle layout for optimal weight distribution, Turbocharged inline-four engine with intercooler, Advanced (for its time) anti-lock braking system (ABS) available, Excellent handling characteristics, Porsche build quality and engineering

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts seeking a potent and capable European sports car with a blend of performance, luxury, and practicality, suitable for both spirited driving and touring.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Porsche 944 Turbo (951)

Applicable Years:

1985-1991 (Model Years)

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine (M44.51/52), Turbocharging System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Transmission (G50/00 5-speed manual), Clutch

Chassis:

Suspension (front & rear), Steering System, Brakes (ABS optional), Wheels & Tires

Electrical:

Wiring Diagrams, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Power Accessories, Engine Control Unit (ECU), Antiforgery System (Porsche Security System - PSS), ABS System

Body And Interior:

Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Glass, Seats, Interior Trim, HVAC System

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, Fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, clutch fluid), Filter replacements, Belt inspections and replacement, Spark plug replacement

Repair:

Engine overhaul, Turbocharger rebuild, Transmission rebuild, Brake caliper overhaul, Suspension component replacement, Electrical component diagnosis and repair

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common issues, Fault code interpretation (where applicable), Fuel pressure testing, Compression testing, Ignition system testing

Specifications:

Torque specifications for all fasteners, Clearances and tolerances, Wiring schematics, Component identification

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures and electrical schematics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Portable Document Format (PDF)

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, enabling quick access to specific information

Quality:

Digital PDF, allowing for high-resolution viewing and printing of individual pages or sections

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder, Turbocharged with Intercooler

Engine Code:

M44.51 (early), M44.52 (late)

Displacement:

2479 cc (2.5 Liters)

Horsepower:

217 hp @ 6000 rpm (M44.51), 225 hp @ 6000 rpm (M44.52)

Torque:

245 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (M44.51), 243 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (M44.52)

Redline:

6500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection with Turbo Control Unit (TCU)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Premium, Octane Rating 91 (RON+MON)/2

Turbocharger Details:

Garrett AiResearch T3 Turbocharger with air-to-air intercooler

Timing Belt Replacement Interval:

Every 60,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle

Gearbox Code:

G50/00 (later models), Getrag P36 (early models)

Type:

None offered for Turbo model

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 SAE 75W-90 (recommended)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approx. 2.8 Liters (2.9 Quarts)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4210 mm (165.7 in)

Width:

1735 mm (68.3 in)

Height:

1280 mm (50.4 in)

Wheelbase:

2450 mm (96.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1360 kg (2998 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1700 kg (3748 lbs)

Cargo Volume:

Combined front and rear storage, flexible

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not directly tested by NHTSA during its primary production period; manufacturer safety standards applied.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option

Traction Control:

None standard

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard from late 1987 onwards, Passenger airbag optional/later standard

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and windscreen frame

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Optional premium sound systems by Blaupunkt or Bose were available.

Instrumentation:

Analog gauges including tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, oil temperature, fuel level, voltmeter, and boost gauge.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models

ABS:

Optional, but highly recommended for performance driving

Connectivity:

Basic, no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually

Tire Rotation Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles

Brake Fluid Change Interval:

Every 2 years

Coolant Flush Interval:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles

Engine Oil Type:

API SG/SH, ACEA A2 or A3, Viscosity 0W-40 or 5W-40 (synthetic recommended)

Engine Oil Capacity:

5.5 Liters (5.8 Quarts) with filter

Coolant Type:

Porsche approved G48 coolant (Ethylene Glycol based with corrosion inhibitors)

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4 (or DOT 5.1 if compatibility is assured)

Common Problems:

Timing belt failure (critical if not replaced on schedule), Oil cooler leaks, Fuel line deterioration, Cracked dashboard, Distributor seal leaks, Rear main seal leaks, Electrical gremlins, Coolant tank leaks, Control arm bushings wear.

Turbo Specific Issues:

Wastegate actuator issues, Turbo seal leaks, Intercooler blockage/leaks, Boost control issues.

Timing Belt Kit:

Example: 944.105.201.02 (check specific model year)

Oil Filter:

Example: 999.107.235.00 (check specific model year)

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Porsche AG, Germany

Predecessors:

Porsche 924, standard Porsche 944

Successors:

Porsche 968

Development:

Developed from the 944 platform, the Turbo (951) was designed to increase performance significantly, making it a formidable sports car for its era.

Production Years:

1985-1991

Manufacturing Location:

Neckarsulm, Germany

Total Production Numbers:

Approximately 13,000 units worldwide

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press:

Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its balance, handling, and performance, often cited as one of the best handling cars of its era.

Performance Rankings:

Featured on 'best sports car' lists by various automotive publications during its production.

Heritage Status:

Recognized as a modern classic and a significant car in Porsche's front-engined era.