The Porsche 944 is a underappreciated classic by almost all accounts, but the convertible version flies even further beneath the radar. The S2 Cabriolet has well under 20,000 original miles and is clad in one of the classic 944 colors of Linen Metallic over Linen. Paired with the preferred 5-speed manual, this is a true driver’s car despite being a convertible variant. A ton of work went into engineering the convertible version of the classic 944 coupe, and the end result is a car that looks as good with the top up as it does down. Find it here on eBay where it’s listed for $38,500 or best offer.

I’ve toyed with the idea of buying one of these for years, as they seem to struggle to command the sort of money the seller is asking for here. Now, his is one of the best versions on the road, most likely, but you can fairly reliably find one with some miles on the clock for safely under $20,000. The 944 in general has seen peaks and valleys in terms of its valuation, and while the best Turbo variants seem to reliably stretch into the $40,000 range, the naturally-aspirated cars seem destined to sit in the $20,000 and low $30,000 range. Given how much work went into engineering the convertible version into a car worthy of the Porsche crest, it’s a bit surprising these aren’t worth more.

After years of teasing that a convertible version was forthcoming, Porsche finally introduced the cabriolet at a time when sales of the 944 were in a bit of a nose dive, no doubt impacted by an economic crunch affecting multiple industries. The build process for the 944 convertible was not unlike that of the Cadillac Allante, with Audi performing the installation of the mechanical bits and who else but ASC doing the actual top chopping. The 944 was significantly reinforced structurally underneath to retain as much chassis rigidity as possible, The rocker sills and door jambs were reinforced and cross members were jammed into the floorpan. In addition, the windshield was chopped, which gives the Cabriolet its distinctively rakish look.

Under the hood, the familiar torque-rich 3.0-liter, 16-valve engine pushes out a frantic 208 horsepower which was good for a 0-60  run of under 7 seconds and quarter mile time of 14.7 at 94 miles per hour. There is a highly elusive turbocharged version that was limited to overseas markets but occasionally pops up stateside by a shrewd importer (to date, only two have been auctioned off by Bring A Trailer.) While the price listed will take some time to connect with a buyer who feels this passionate about owning a 944 Cabriolet that’s been left in the wrapper, I’m sure that enthusiast is out there – for the rest of us, keep your eyes peeled on Marketplace if you want to own one for less.