Positioning:
Performance grand tourer, established Porsche lineage, significant evolution from 924
Competitors:
BMW 3 Series (E30), Mercedes-Benz 190E, Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang
Design Philosophy:
Transaxle layout for balanced weight distribution, front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a capable, reliable, and distinctive sports coupe with a focus on driving dynamics
Covered Models:
Porsche 944 S, Porsche 944 S2
Applicable Years:
1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds (specific number not provided, but described as extensive)
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Engine:
Complete overhaul, diagnosis, tuning, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust systems
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, clutch, driveline, axle assemblies
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS (if equipped), disc brake components, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, wheel alignment, steering system diagnosis and repair
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, instrumentation, ECU diagnostics
Body Chassis:
Bodywork repair, exterior trim, interior components, frame and chassis structural integrity
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system service and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Motronic), fuel pump, injectors, pressure regulator
Emissions Control:
Emission control devices and systems, catalytic converter, oxygen sensors
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, belt replacement
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation
Repair Rebuild:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and rebuilding
Refurbishment Restoration:
Guidance on restoring worn or damaged components and systems
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying root causes of problems
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance, pressures
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic DIY maintenance to advanced engine and transmission overhauls
Detail Level:
Highly detailed, suitable for professional mechanics and experienced enthusiasts
Engine Type 944 S:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-cylinder (M44/51)
Engine Displacement 944 S:
2.5 Liters (2479 cc)
Engine Type 944 S2:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-cylinder (M44/51)
Engine Displacement 944 S2:
2.5 Liters (2479 cc) - Larger bore and stroke than 944 S
Horsepower 944 S:
190 hp (142 kW) at 6000 rpm
Torque 944 S:
180 lb-ft (244 Nm) at 4500 rpm
Horsepower 944 S2:
208 hp (155 kW) at 6000 rpm
Torque 944 S2:
207 lb-ft (281 Nm) at 4500 rpm
Fuel Injection:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 4 valves per cylinder
Standard Transmission:
5-Speed Manual Transaxle
Optional Transmission:
Tiptronic Automatic Transaxle (Optional on some S2 models)
Transaxle Layout:
Rear-mounted transaxle (engine front, transmission rear)
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios available in the manual
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 or GL-5 specification and viscosity (e.g., 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Refer to manual for specific ATF type (e.g., Dexron III equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 168.0 inches (4267 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.9 inches (1725 mm)
Height:
Approx. 50.1 inches (1273 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 94.5 inches (2400 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg), varies by model and equipment
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate or manual
Cargo Capacity:
Combined front and rear storage, rear cargo area expandable with folding seats
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 130 mm
Standard Wheel Size:
16-inch Alloy (often 7J front, 8J rear)
Standard Tire Size:
205/55R16 front, 225/50R16 rear (typical for S2)
NHTSA Ratings:
No specific ratings readily available for this era, refer to period automotive publications
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Standard on S2, optional on some later S models)
Traction Control:
Optional on some models (e.g., MSR - Motor Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard from 1987/88 onwards; Passenger airbag optional/later standard
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pre-tensioners (later models)
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and integrated roll bar behind seats for coupe models
Audio System:
Factory Porsche stereo systems, often Blaupunkt or Grundig, with integrated cassette or radio
Navigation:
Not typically available from the factory for these model years
Cruise Control:
Optional or standard depending on trim and year
Bluetooth Usb:
Not factory equipped; aftermarket solutions available
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 1 year, refer to manual for exact Porsche recommendation
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial service, typically every 30,000-60,000 miles (50,000-100,000 km) or 3-5 years. The manual will detail the exact interval and procedure.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 30,000 miles (50,000 km)
Engine Oil Specification:
Refer to manual for specific API, ACEA, and viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-40 or 10W-40 synthetic)
Coolant Specification:
Porsche approved coolant or equivalent (e.g., ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to manual, typically hydraulic fluid or ATF
Common Issues Engine:
Timing belt tensioner failure, camshaft seal leaks, fuel distributor issues, oil cooler leaks
Common Issues Suspension Steering:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, steering rack leaks, rear axle trailing arm bearings
Common Issues Electrical:
Corrosion on electrical connectors, fuel pump relay failure, ABS sensor issues, dashboard warning light anomalies
Common Issues HVAC:
HVAC blower motor failure, refrigerant leaks, climate control unit issues
Common Issues Body:
Rust in common areas (e.g., battery tray, rear wheel wells), door seal degradation
Porsche Legacy:
Direct descendant of Porsche's engineering and performance focus, though a departure from rear-engine tradition
944 Development:
Evolved from the 924, with significant upgrades including a larger displacement engine, improved suspension, and enhanced styling
944 S Introduction:
Introduced in 1986 as a performance variant with a 16-valve cylinder head, improving horsepower over the standard 944
944 S2 Introduction:
Introduced in 1989 as a further evolution, featuring a 3.0-liter engine and a revised front bumper/bodywork, becoming the most powerful naturally aspirated 944
Manufacturing Location:
Neckarsulm, Germany (Audi plant, under contract for Porsche)
Production Period:
944 S: 1986-1988; 944 S2: 1989-1991
Automotive Press Accolades:
Consistently praised for its handling, balance, and engineering by automotive journalists of its era
Performance Benchmarks:
Often ranked highly for its performance metrics against contemporary competitors
Maintenance Standards:
Adheres to strict Porsche engineering and quality standards