1984 Porsche 944 Coupe

Launched in 1982, the 944 was everything the 924 should have been, with more muscular styling and a proper Porsche engine. At the heart of the 944 was a sophisticated 2.5-litre all-alloy four that was essentially half the 928's V8, using electronic injection and Digital Motor Electronics. The aggressively flared guards hid revised suspension and brakes, along with Fuchs alloy wheels and 205/55 VR16 tyres. With near perfect weight distribution thanks to the rear transaxle, the 944 handled very effectively and had lively performance from the 163 bhp engine thanks both to the abundance of torque and the 944's relatively light (1180 kg) weight, allowing for a top speed of 220 km/h. Porsche also took the opportunity to refine the interior, giving the 944's cabin an altogether more luxurious appearance than that of the 924. Refinements on the 1984 models included an electric release for the rear hatch and electric windows as standard equipment. Always popular in America, where it was routinely voted as one of the best handling sports cars on the market, the 944 sold in strong numbers with 162,192 built between 1982 and 1991.