Clean Porsche 944s have been on the rise lately, likely owing to a few factors. One, the 911 has become somewhat unobtainable for casual collectors and enthusiasts, or at least past the point of being the kind of purchase you don’t think too hard about. For another, the 944 has always been a fine driver’s car but has lived in the shadow of the 911 since birth. After all, it’s front-engined and water-cooled – how good can it be? Well, turbocharged examples like this super clean 1987 944 Turbo here on eBay have proven it’s a fine driver’s car and a worthwhile alternative to a 911 if you can get past the stigma of the engine not being in the “right” place. Bidding is at $15,000 with no reserve.

The color combo is quite choice, featuring Crimson Red paint over a black leather interior. The seller claims the paint is original, and it looks excellent in photos. It’s a nice change of pace from Guards Red, which is certainly a classic shade but also a bit old hat at this point. The 944 rides on OEM upsized Porsche wheels but will also come with its stock rollers, and while I love the OEM+ upgrade, I’d be sorely tempted to put the original wheels back on. The 944 looks correct all the way around, from the lower body aero panels behind the rear wheels to the Turbo script on the rear decklid. Even the often-sunburnt black foam rear spoiler looks to be in lustrous shape, a good sign the 944 has been parked indoors.

The black leather interior is in excellent shape, with just some typical wear marks from use. The 944 shows 119,200 miles, so it has been used, but this just means it’s been reliable enough to hop in and drive at a moment’s notice. The 944 could be optioned from the factory with sport seats, but those are are a rare find – still, if you can find a pair used, it’s a worthwhile upgrade that will pay you back. The dash is said to show no cracks and it’s surprising to see a 944 that retains its factory steering wheel these days. Carpets look clean and have been protected by OEM-style floormats. The seller notes he is having the driver’s seat repaired before the auction closes of any cracks and splits he sees, and that while the A/C doesn’t work, he’ll include the needed parts to repair for an additional $200.

Under hood, the turbocharged four cylinder looks to be in fine order, enhanced by a KKK K26 Turbo making 220 b.h.p. and capable of launching a turbocharged 944 to 60 in just under six seconds. The seller claims the 944 will come with binders that document all service and repairs made since new, which doesn’t surprise me at all based on how this car is presented. While any Porsche will still come with expensive part prices and maintenance if you use a specialist shop, the cost of entry is at least far lower on a 944 Turbo than a 911 on the same era and in similar condition. The seller notes the timing belt, water pump, and pulleys were replaced 6,000 miles ago, so this 944 Turbo should offer its next owner plenty of thrills without too many surprises for the foreseeable future.