LS3-Powered 1986 Porsche 944 Turbo 6-Speed

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

First launched in 1982, the Porsche 944 followed in the footsteps of the 924 of 1976 and the 928 of 1977 in adopting a front-mounted, water-cooled engine and rear-mounted transaxle configuration which, at the time, was part of Porsche’s planned evolution away from the rear-engine layout of the 911. The new entry-level model took inspiration from the flared fenders of the 924 GTP LeMans prototype with its fresh hatchback design while retaining the familiar and excellent-handling chassis of the 924 underneath.  

In naturally aspirated form, the 944 produced 150 horsepower from its all-new 2.5-liter overhead-camshaft four-cylinder, later jumping to 217 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque through the addition of a K-26 turbocharger in the 944 Turbo of 1986. The new turbocharged model silenced any remaining calls for more power and also introduced revised front-end bodywork, stiffer suspension components, updated brakes, and wider wheels and tires.  

The consignor of this 1986 Porsche 944 has owned it since 1989 and is believed to be the second owner. A failing transaxle some years ago resulted in the installation of a Porsche 968 six-speed, and later a failing engine was followed by a custom 520 hp Chevy LS3 V8 transplant. 

Highlights 

• Stock-looking 944 Turbo with a Chevy LS3 punch 

• 520 hp Chevrolet 6.2-liter LS3 V8: 

  • Custom-built from all new parts and components by CBM Motorsports 

  • Installed by Porsche specialists Renegade Hybrids in Las Vegas, Nevada 

  • Manley forged pistons, Total Seal rings, and forged rods 

  • Mahle Clevite Performance bearings 

  • Edelbrock Victor LS 90mm throttle body 

• Rebuilt six-speed manual transaxle sourced from a Porsche 968 

• Rebuilt limited-slip differential 

• Koni front struts and adjustable coil-over rear struts 

• Porsche Brembo brakes with upgraded front brakes 

• Ceramic coated headers with large diameter exhaust 

• Michelin Sport Cup 2 tires: 235/40ZR18 front, 265/35ZR18 rear 

• Multi-piece 18” Porsche wheels 

Features 

• Other updates include: 

  • Brey-Krause strut tower brace 

  • Aluminum radiator with electric fan 

  • Rare Italvolanti leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel 

  • Fog lights converted to running lights 

• Power sunroof (removable) 

• Power windows, door locks, and mirrors 

• Fog lights converted to running lights 

• Power steering, power brakes, and A/C 

• Power adjustable Sport seats 

Known Imperfections 

• The CARFAX Vehicle History Report notes on 2 March 2017, “Damage Report,” and “Damage reported: minor damage.” CARFAX also notes, “Minor damage is usually cosmetic, including dents or scratches to the vehicle body.” 

• Original paint has some areas of oxidation, paint chips in the nose and passenger front fender, and scuffs behind the passenger rear wheel 

• Some scratches below the trim on driver’s door 

• Stone guard decals are dried 

• Cracks in upper dash pad 

• One horn button and one dash button are missing 

• Driver’s side carpet is worn through (under floor mat) 

• Odometer is not working 

• Air conditioning needs to be recharged 

Included 

• Two sets of keys 

• Original sunroof cover 

 Ownership History 

The accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report places this LS3-Powered 1986 Porsche 944 in Arizona. The current owner purchased the car in 1989 with approximately 40,000 miles on it. He believes he is the second owner and that the original owner was an employee at Scottsdale Porsche (where he said it was sold new). Some years ago, he was driving in Northern California, and the transaxle was giving him problems, so it took it to a Euro shop there who swapped in a rebuilt six-speed transaxle from a Porsche 968. Then some years later the original engine was going out, so he spent close to $50k having a high-performance Porsche shop in Las Vegas custom build and swap in a 520-hp LS3. 

Additional Notes 

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.  

Contact: Frank Malefors   Phone: 602-488-7888   Email: fmalefors@hagerty.com