944 Turbo & Turbo S

Since 1982, the 944 has seen various unique variants. In 1986, Porsche introduced the 944 Turbo (known as the 951). It had a turbocharged and intercooled engine, producing 220 PS (162 kW) (217 hp in the US) at 6,000 rpm. The Turbo was groundbreaking, featuring a ceramic port liner, forged pistons, and power consistency with or without a catalytic converter. It sported improved aerodynamics with an integrated front bumper and wide turn signals. Other upgrades included a reinforced gearbox, external oil coolers, standard 16-inch wheels (optional forged Fuchs wheels), stiffer suspension, inconel headers, and 911 brakes. Over thirty engine revisions were made to handle increased loads and heat.

944 Turbo S (952)

In 1988, Porsche introduced the 944 Turbo S with a more powerful engine, achieving 250 PS (184 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) of torque at 4,000 rpm. It had a larger turbocharger housing and revised engine mapping, maintaining maximum boost until 5,800 rpm. The Turbo S also featured an upgraded suspension, 16-inch Fuchs forged wheels, and enhanced manual transmission with a limited-slip differential. The front brakes were from the 928 S4, and ABS was standard. Inside, it offered power seats and various interior options. In 1989 and later production years, the ‘S’ designation was dropped from the 944 Turbo S, and all of the turbocharged iterations of the 944 featured the Turbo S enhancements as standard, except for the suspension and wheels. Regardless, the 944 Turbo S was renowned as the fastest production four-cylinder car of its time.