1991 Porsche 944 2.5L Petrol · 944 X

Insurance for a 1991 Porsche 944 typically falls into group 30 or above depending on the variant, so quotations should be obtained before purchase. Road tax for a vehicle of this age is the flat-rate £0 historic vehicle class once it reaches 40 years old, but until then the standard VED rate applies. Fuel economy for the 2.5-litre naturally aspirated unit is realistically in the high 20s mpg range under normal driving, dropping significantly under spirited use.

Annual maintenance costs on a 944 of this mileage are difficult to keep below £1,000 once specialist servicing, brake parts, and tyre replacement are factored in. Specialist hourly rates are higher than generalists, and parts supply for some trim and interior items is becoming scarcer. A realistic all-in annual running cost including fuel, insurance, tax, and maintenance for a car used moderately is £1,800 to £2,400.

Begin with a close look at the underbody for corrosion, particularly around the sills, front suspension turrets, and rear valance, as rust is the leading cause of 944 write-offs. Inspect the front strut mounts and springs for sagging, which can be identified by uneven ride height or knocking over bumps. Given the 2025 advisory noting 'slight play o/s/f wheel bearing', the front wheel bearings are clearly a current concern and should be physically checked for play by rocking the wheel at the tyre arch.

Next, examine the brake discs for lipping and the condition of the rear brake mechanism, including the handbrake cables and calipers — the 2021 advisory flagged a high handbrake which can indicate stretched cables or seized rear calipers. Look for any signs of oil leakage from the engine and gearbox area; the persistent 'slight oil leak' advisories suggest the rear main seal or cam seals may eventually need replacement. Finally, check that all four are the correct size and specification, as the 2025 test flagged both uneven tyre wear and rear tyres reaching the marker bars simultaneously, which can point to suspension geometry issues as well as age-related rubber deterioration.