1986 Porsche 944 Coupe

The Porsche 944 Turbo was introduced in February of 1985 with a powerplant based on the '924 Prototype' that had competed at Le Mans. Even though there were some early setbacks for the new 944, the development of a four-valve cylinder head on a turbocharged car was continued. The final version had a single KKK turbocharger, which had impressive gains in both power and torque with no rear adverse effect on emission standards.

The 944 Turbo was not well received in most standard GT categories, including SCCA and IMSA, so it was decided that in order for the 944 Turbo to realize its competition potential, Porsche would have to create the venue. In late 1985, Porsche AG developed the 944 Turbo Cup as an affordable, competitive, entry-level venue for motorsports enthusiasts. Initially, it was designed as a single-marque racing series run in conjunction with German ADAC Supercup races. Some examples were later put to use in other countries including France, Canada, and the United States.

The Cup cars were essentially standard-production 944 Turbos that were suited for track use. The factory-built competition machines were given a magnesium oil sump, a smaller generator, stiffer suspension, reinforced gearbox, wider tires, and modified engine components including a revised turbocharger. Safety features were added including an eight-point roll cage, driver's Recaro racing seat, manual windows, and, for weight-saving measures, were stripped of many interior components.

This 944 Turbo Cup is powered by a 2479cc single overhead cam four-cylinder engine with a single KKK turbocharger. It produces 250 horsepower, there are a five-speed manual gearbox and four-wheel ventilated disc brakes. It was originally finished in Guards Red with black leatherette upholstery and equipped as a Turbo Cup model with US equipment, Pirelli tires, and a limited-slip differential. It was delivered to race car driver Robert Bogan and was used to participate in the IMSA Firehawk Series, as well as in various SCCA events under Robertson Porsche/Audi of New Orleans sponsorship. Later, the car was sold to Porsche enthusiasts Lloyd Hawkins and completely restored. In 2008, it was purchased by Matthew Drendel.

In 2012, this car was offered for sale at Amelia Island sale presented by Gooding & Company. The car was estimated to sell for $65,000 - $85,000 and offered without reserve. As bidding came to a close, the car had been sold for the sum of $79,200 inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2012