In 1981, Porsche needed a replacement for the discontinued 924 model. After considering several options-including a new V6 engine, the company decided to build upon the previous 924 model lineage, and named the new entry-level car 944- essentially a product revision, but with superior performance, higher material/build characteristics, and excellent fuel economy. Porsche Aktiengeschellshaft(AG) CEO Peter Schutz was merely answering the American buyers' plea for an affordable Porsche, when the 944 was officially released in September, 1982. The USA was Porsche's prized market segment, accounting for over 80% of global sales. With full cooperation of partner Volkswagen- the 944 was conceived, developed, and ready for delivery in a record 15 months. While testing the 944, engineers discovered the 2.5L SOHC engine with twin contra-rotating balance shafts, brought velvet-smooth running operation, a progressive torque curve, and 30mpg on the freeway. In addition, the suspension and aggressive handling of the car was nearing “supercar” status. After selling over 300,000 924 and 944 models from 1982-1991, Porsche was able to avoid bankruptcy, a merger with VW, and was fully able to self-develop the new 968 series cars in 1991. Today, the Porsche 944 series is the company's best-selling model ever. Without it- there would be no Boxster, 993/996, and no Cayenne. This car clearly made the Porsche name a world-class manufacturer of high-performance racing, and sports cars and a reputable winner of many design awards, and endurance achievements. At Porsche944Only- our appreciation is devoted to the car that SAVED the Porsche marquee.