1982 Porsche 944 Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Porsche 944 measures 1735 mm (68.3 inches) in width. This width is relatively moderate for a sports coupe from the 1980s, optimizing both road presence and maneuverability. Compared to contemporaries like the BMW M3 (E30), which is slightly narrower, the 944 balances stability with agile handling. The width includes aerodynamic styling elements and the flared wheel arches that accommodate wider tires, enhancing grip and driving dynamics without making the car overly wide for typical roads and parking spaces.

The Porsche 944 has a height of 1275 mm (about 50.2 inches), which is quite low, contributing to a low center of gravity. This low ride height enhances stability and cornering performance, key aspects for a sports car. The coupe’s profile promotes aerodynamic efficiency and a sleek silhouette. While the low height improves handling and aesthetics, it also means reduced headroom compared to taller cars, but this is typical for sports coupes focused on driver engagement and performance.

The Porsche 944’s curb weight ranges from approximately 1180 kg to 1400 kg (2601 to 3086 lbs), depending on the model variant and options. Lighter models like the base 944 help deliver nimble handling and brisk acceleration, while the heavier variants, including those with AWD or turbocharged engines, see added weight which affects agility but improves traction and power delivery. This weight range strikes a balance between structural rigidity and lightweight design typical of sports cars, allowing the 944 to perform dynamically on the road and track.

The maximum weight, or Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR), of the Porsche 944 ranges from 1500 kg to 1740 kg (approx. 3307 to 3836 lbs). This figure includes the weight of the vehicle itself plus passengers, cargo, and any additional load. Staying within this limit is vital for safety, as exceeding the GVWR can adversely affect braking, suspension, and handling. The specified maximum weight ensures the car performs optimally and maintains structural integrity under typical driving conditions.

The ride height or ground clearance of the Porsche 944 ranges from 120 mm to 138 mm (around 4.7 to 5.4 inches). This relatively low clearance is designed for sporty handling and aerodynamic efficiency but means the car is less suited to rough roads or speed bumps compared to higher vehicles. While this height offers excellent on-road performance and cornering agility, drivers need to be cautious over uneven terrain or steep driveway entrances to avoid undercarriage scraping.

Yes, the Porsche 944 fits comfortably into a standard home garage. Typical garages measure about 2.4 to 3 meters (8 to 10 feet) in width and about 5.4 to 6 meters (18 to 20 feet) in length. Given the 944’s length of roughly 4.2 to 4.32 meters (13.8 to 14.2 feet), width of 1.735 meters (5.7 feet), and height of approximately 1.275 meters (4.2 feet), it can be easily accommodated inside a residential garage with ample space for parking and opening doors.

The Porsche 944 is an evolution of the Porsche 924, and dimensionally it is slightly larger and more performance-oriented. While the 924 had a length around 4200 mm (165.4 inches), the 944 can extend up to 4320 mm (170.1 inches), giving it a bit more presence and interior space. The width remains similar around 1735 mm (68.3 inches), but the 944’s design includes wider wheel arches and sportier styling cues. Additionally, the 944 weighs more than the 924, up to 1400 kg versus around 1150 kg for the 924, reflecting more robust engineering and equipment.

In the 1980s sports car segment, the Porsche 944 stood out for its balanced size and performance. Its length of about 4200-4320 mm (165-170 inches) and width of 1735 mm (68 inches) positioned it as a compact yet substantial coupe, larger than a Mazda RX-7 but similar to a BMW M3 (E30). Performance-wise, the 944's weight between 1180 and 1400 kg and its refined handling made it competitive with rivals. The car's front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout gave it excellent driving dynamics, balancing agility and stability better than some lighter but less balanced competitors.

The Porsche 944 was offered with a variety of rim and tire sizes over its production. Rim sizes ranged from 7J x 15 inches up to 16.9J x 16 inches, reflecting different performance and styling needs across model years and trims. Tire sizes included 215/60 R15, 195/65 R15, 185/70 VR15, 205/55 VR16, 225/50 R16, 205/55 R16, 245/45 R16, and 215/60 R15, showing a mix of standard and performance options. These allowed owners to tailor handling characteristics, grip levels, and ride comfort depending on personal preferences or specific track-use requirements.