Porsche 944 Options & Equipment Codes
The Ultimate Guide to Porsche 944 Standard Equipment Build Codes and Option Codes
The Porsche 944, produced from 1982 to 1991, was a groundbreaking evolution of the 924, featuring a wider body, upgraded suspension, and a powerful Porsche-designed engine. It quickly became one of the most popular Porsches of its era, offering an ideal balance of performance, handling, and practicality. While many 944s were sold in relatively standard configurations, Porsche offered a wide range of factory options and equipment packages, some of which are now highly sought-after by collectors and enthusiasts. Understanding these option codes is essential for verifying originality, assessing a car’s value, and identifying rare factory-installed features.
In this Ultimate Guide, we will break down factory options and equipment codes for each model year, covering performance upgrades, interior and exterior choices, luxury features, and special edition packages. We’ll also explore how to decode build sheets, identify rare options, and determine which features add the most value to a 944 today. Additionally, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions from owners and buyers, including what to look for when purchasing a 944, which options are the most desirable, and how to authenticate a factory-original car. Whether you’re a long-time 944 owner, a prospective buyer, or a collector looking for the perfect spec, this guide will provide everything you need to know about Porsche 944 options and equipment codes.
Porsche 944 Options & Equipment Codes
The Porsche 944 came with a wide array of factory-installed options and equipment packages, many of which significantly impact collectibility, performance, and resale value today. Whether you’re verifying originality, restoring a classic, or looking for a well-optioned model, understanding these option codes is crucial. This section will give you Porsche 944 options and equipment codes, categorized by model year.
Porsche 944 Options & Equipment FAQs
All your Porsche 944 car equipment and options codes questions answered.
We get tons of questions from prospective Porsche 944 buyers and owners around options codes, equipment and how to decode stuff. In this section we try to answer those common questions. We’ll also cover how to decode a Porsche 944 build sheet, determine which features are most desirable, and answer common questions about factory options.
How do I know what Porsche 944 options I have?
Every Porsche leaves the factory with a list of standard and optional equipment. Standard equipment is described by build codes and optional equipment by option codes. The codes are three or four character strings of numbers and letters. Back in the old days, all the codes started with an M and they were called as the M-codes. Nowadays they start with an I. Please note that the sticker in the service book or on the body never includes all the codes related to the car. It is a bit of a mystery why some codes are printed there and some are not.
What are the most sought after Porsche 944 options?
The Porsche 944 (1982-1991) offered a wide range of factory options and special equipment packages, many of which significantly impact desirability, performance, and value today. While some options were common, others were rare and highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Below are the most desirable Porsche 944 options across all model years.
1. M030 Sport Suspension Package
Why It’s Sought-After: One of the most valuable and performance-enhancing options for the 944. Includes adjustable Koni shocks, thicker sway bars, and larger brakes. Found on 944 Turbo S, 944 S2, and rare M030-equipped non-Turbo models. Adds significant collector value, especially on Turbo models.
Key Features: Adjustable Koni shocks for improved handling. Larger brake rotors and stiffer springs. A must-have for track-focused 944s.
2. M220 Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
Why It’s Sought-After: Greatly improves cornering grip and acceleration under power. Especially valuable on 944 Turbo and S2 models for better traction. Makes a huge difference in track and spirited driving. Highly desirable and rare; increases collector value.
Key Features: Factory ZF limited-slip differential. Reduces wheel spin, improving acceleration and handling.
3. M474 Sport Shock Absorber Package
Why It’s Sought-After: Upgraded Koni sport shocks, improving ride quality and handling. Standard on 944 Turbo S, optional on base and S2 models. Desirable on Turbo models, adds value on well-preserved examples.
Key Features: Koni adjustable dampers for a sportier ride. Improves cornering stability without sacrificing comfort.
4. M193 Sport Seats (Recaro Seats)
Why It’s Sought-After: Factory Recaro sport bucket seats offer better bolstering and comfort. Rarely optioned, making them highly collectible today. Significantly raises desirability among 944 Turbo and S2 buyers.
Key Features: Recaro-style bolstered sport seats. Available in leather or cloth.
5. M652 Heated Front Seats
Why It’s Sought-After: Rare comfort feature, especially on early 944s. Adds winter usability, making it desirable in colder climates. Adds uniqueness but is more desirable for daily-driven 944s than collectors.
Key Features: Driver & passenger heated seats with adjustable settings.
6. M650 Power Sunroof
Why It’s Sought-After: Removable Targa-style power sunroof, a popular luxury option. Improves open-air driving experience while maintaining structural rigidity. Not extremely rare, but preferred by most buyers.
Key Features: Electric power sunroof with manual removal.
7. M395 16-inch Forged Fuchs Wheels
Why It’s Sought-After: The lightest and strongest wheels available for the 944. Rare, especially on early 944s and some S and Turbo models. Adds classic Porsche appeal, especially on early 944s.
Key Features: 16-inch lightweight Fuchs alloys. More collectible than standard wheels.
8. M437 & M438 Power Adjustable Sport Seats
Why It’s Sought-After: Adds extra luxury and comfort to an otherwise spartan interior. Adjustable sport seats offer better support for spirited driving. Not as desirable as manual Recaro sport seats, but a nice luxury option.
Key Features: Power-adjustable driver and passenger sport seats.
9. M491 Turbo Look (Widebody) Package
Why It’s Sought-After: Rare widebody 944, giving it the aggressive Turbo look. One of the rarest 944 factory options, making it highly collectible. Being so rate, this option also significantly increases resale value.
Key Features: Turbo-style widebody fender flares. Unique suspension and brake upgrades.
10. M455 Cruise Control
Why It’s Sought-After: Makes long-distance touring much easier, rare on early 944s. It is not a performance upgrade, but desired for road trip enthusiasts and just makes the 944 better all-rounder.
Key Features: Factory cruise control system.
Final Thoughts: The Most Valuable Porsche 944 Options
Most Valuable Performance Option: M030 Sport Suspension & M220 LSD.
Most Desirable Interior Option: M193 Recaro Sport Seats.
Most Collectible Special Edition: 1988 944 Turbo S (Silver Rose Edition).
Best Luxury Option: M650 Power Sunroof & M437/M438 Power Seats.
Rarest Factory Option: M491 Turbo Look Widebody Package.
What are the most sought after Porsche 944 variants?
Throughout its production run, Porsche introduced several special editions and high-performance variants, many of which are now highly sought after by collectors. Below are the most desirable Porsche 944 variants, ranked by rarity, performance, and collectibility.
1. 1988 Porsche 944 Turbo S (M758) – The Ultimate 944 Turbo
Why It’s Sought-After: The most powerful factory-built 944, featuring a 247 hp turbocharged 2.5L engine. Standard M030 sport suspension, M220 limited-slip differential (LSD), and larger Brembo brakes. 0-60 mph in 5.5 seconds, making it faster than the contemporary 911 Carrera. The rare Silver Rose Edition came with an exclusive Silver Rose Metallic paint and Burgundy Studio interior. Limited production, with only 1,635 units built. Expect to pay $40,000+ for well-preserved models, with rare Silver Rose versions exceeding $60,000.
Key Features: 247 hp turbocharged 2.5L engine (upgraded from the standard 944 Turbo’s 217 hp). M030 adjustable sport suspension. M220 limited-slip differential. Unique Silver Rose Edition (only a fraction of Turbo S models).
2. 1989-1991 Porsche 944 S2 – The Best Naturally Aspirated 944
Why It’s Sought-After: Powered by a 3.0L inline-four (208 hp), the largest four-cylinder engine Porsche ever made. Faster than early 944 Turbos in real-world driving due to its broad powerband. Featured the Turbo’s upgraded suspension and brakes, making it one of the best-handling 944s. S2 Cabriolet (introduced in 1989) was the first-ever convertible 944, making it even rarer. Expect to pay $25,000-$40,000+ for coupes, $30,000-$50,000 for Cabriolets.
Key Features: 3.0L DOHC engine (208 hp, 207 lb-ft torque). Turbo-spec suspension and brakes. Optional Cabriolet model (1989-1991).
3. 1986 Porsche 944 Turbo (951) – The Original Turbocharged 944
Why It’s Sought-After: The first turbocharged 944, with a 217 hp 2.5L turbo engine. Much faster than naturally aspirated models, with 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds. M474 Koni sport shocks were standard, and M030 sport suspension was optional. Early M44/51 models (1986) had stronger internal engine components, making them preferred by tuners. Prices are $25,000-$35,000, with pristine examples exceeding $40,000.
Key Features: 2.5L turbocharged engine (217 hp, 243 lb-ft torque). Factory intercooler and KKK turbocharger. Standard M474 Koni sport shocks.
4. 1987 Porsche 944 Turbo Cup (Race-Ready Special) – Ultra-Rare
Why It’s Sought-After: A lightweight, race-ready version of the 944 Turbo, produced for Porsche’s Turbo Cup racing series. Power increased to 250 hp, and weight was reduced by ~300 lbs via thin glass, aluminum hood, and no soundproofing. One of the rarest 944s ever built, with only 192 cars worldwide. If you can find one, you're going to spend more than $100k.
Key Features: 250 hp Turbo engine with racing upgrades. Lightweight aluminum hood and thinner glass. Stripped-out interior with full roll cage (on race cars).
5. 1987 Porsche 944 S – First Twin-Cam 944
Why It’s Sought-After: The first DOHC 16-valve 944, producing 190 hp. Served as the bridge between the standard 944 and the later S2 models. Rare, as it was produced for just two years (1987-1988) before being replaced by the S2. Prices are $15,000 -$25,000, rising as S2 prices increase.
Key Features: 2.5L DOHC 16-valve engine (190 hp, higher revving than standard 944s). Lighter than the 944 Turbo, making it a great handling car.
6. 1989-1991 Porsche 944 S2 Cabriolet – First 944 Convertible
Why It’s Sought-After: First-ever open-top 944, making it unique among transaxle Porsches. Powered by the 3.0L 208 hp engine, making it the most powerful naturally aspirated 944. Low production numbers—only 2,402 built for North America. Expect to pay $30,000-$50,000, increasing due to rarity.
Key Features: 3.0L DOHC engine (208 hp). Factory-designed convertible top
7. 1986 Porsche 944 Turbo "M44/51" (Early Turbo with Stronger Internals)
Why It’s Sought-After: Early 1986 944 Turbo models had stronger engine internals, making them preferred for modifications. These forged internals were later phased out for cost reasons. Increasingly rare due to many being modified or raced. $25,000-$35,000, with pristine examples reaching $40,000.
Key Features: Early 951 model with stronger internal components. Preferred by tuners and collectors.
Final Rankings: The Most Sought-After Porsche 944 Variants
Most Valuable & Rare: 1988 944 Turbo Cup – Race car rarity makes it nearly unobtainable.
Best Overall Performance Model: 1988 944 Turbo S – Most powerful and best-equipped Turbo.
Best Naturally Aspirated Model: 1989-1991 944 S2 – Largest and most powerful NA engine.
Best Early Turbo Model: 1986 944 Turbo (M44/51) – Stronger internals, rising in value.
Most Unique Special Edition: Silver Rose Turbo S – Rare, sought-after color and trim.
What are the most popular Porsche 944 colors?
The Porsche 944 (1982-1991) was available in a variety of classic, bold, and metallic colors, many of which have become highly desirable among collectors today. While some colors were widely available, others were limited to specific model years, special editions, or performance variants. Below are the most popular and sought-after Porsche 944 colors, categorized by production period and rarity.
Early Porsche 944 (1982-1985) Popular Colors:
Guards Red (L027) – The most iconic Porsche 944 color, seen on many early models.
Alpine White (L90E) – A timeless, clean look, widely used throughout production.
Zermatt Silver Metallic (L96D) – A premium metallic silver, popular among early 944s.
Black (L041) – A classic and common color for 944s.
Garnet Red Metallic (L895) – A deep red metallic, rare but highly desirable.
India Red (L80K) – A brighter red than Guards Red, used on early models.
Platinum Metallic (L999) – A gold-champagne hue, often seen on well-optioned cars.
Mid-Production Porsche 944 (1985-1988) Popular Colors:
Slate Grey Metallic (L22D) – A dark metallic grey, often seen on 944 Turbo models.
Graphite Metallic (L961) – A deep grey metallic, adding a stealthy appearance.
Marine Blue Metallic (L35V) – A darker, navy-style blue metallic, rare and stunning.
Stone Grey Metallic (L693) – A lighter metallic grey with a champagne hue.
Linen Grey Metallic (L37X) – A refined, off-white metallic color.
Malachite Green Metallic (L95Y) – A unique, dark green metallic, rare and valuable.
Venetian Blue Metallic (L36P) – A rare medium blue with a metallic finish.
Late Porsche 944 / 944 S2 (1989-1991) Popular Colors:
Guards Red (L027) – Still one of the most dominant 944 colors.
Alpine White (L90E) – A classic, simple, and elegant color.
Cobalt Blue Metallic (L37U) – A stunning, deep metallic blue, rare but highly desirable.
Saturn Yellow (L10B) – A bright, attention-grabbing yellow, often seen on special orders.
Amazon Green Metallic (L39A) – A deep green metallic with a slight blue hue.
Grand Prix White (L908) – A special-edition white used on Turbo S models.
Rare & Special Edition Porsche 944 Colors
Silver Rose Metallic (LM3Z) – 1988 944 Turbo S Silver Rose Edition: Exclusive to the 1988 Turbo S (M758 Silver Rose Edition). Paired with a burgundy "Studio" cloth interior, making it one of the rarest factory colors.
Raspberry Red Metallic (LM3U) – 1990-1991 944 S2 Exclusive Paint Option: A rare pinkish-red metallic, highly collectible today.
Sienna Brown Metallic (L95Y) – Special Color for Early 944 Models: A brown-bronze metallic that was rare even when new.
Lime Green (Special Order) – Extremely Rare Color on 944s: Occasionally seen as a paint-to-sample option.
Le Mans Special Edition Colors – 1988 944 S Special Edition: Alpine White with blue "Le Mans" decals and Black with red "Le Mans" decals.
Most Collectible Porsche 944 Colors Today
Guards Red (L027) – Always desirable and iconic for the 944.
Alpine White (L90E) & Grand Prix White (L908) – Timeless and clean.
Cobalt Blue Metallic (L37U) – A deep blue metallic that stands out.
Slate Grey Metallic (L22D) & Graphite Metallic (L961) – Great on Turbo models.
Silver Rose Metallic (LM3Z) – Ultra-rare and exclusive to the 944 Turbo S Silver Rose Edition.
Amazon Green Metallic (L39A) & Malachite Green Metallic (L95Y) – Unique and valuable.
How do I decode a Porsche 944 build sheet?
Decoding a Porsche 944 build sheet is essential for verifying a car’s original factory specifications, including paint color, interior trim, performance options, and special equipment packages. Whether you're an owner, buyer, or restorer, understanding the codes on a build sheet (or option sticker) can help determine a car’s authenticity and value.
Step 1: Locate the Build Sheet or Option Sticker
The Porsche 944 build sheet (often called the Kardex) was typically found in a few key places: 📌 Inside the rear hatch area – Look on the underside of the carpet, near the spare tire well. 📌 Inside the owner’s manual – Many cars had an option sticker placed in the service book. 📌 On the door jamb or fuse box cover – Some later models had the option code sticker in these locations.
If the original sticker is missing, you can request a Porsche Certificate of Authenticity (COA) or Porsche Production Specifications (PPS) from Porsche to confirm factory options.
Step 2: Identify Key Sections on the Build Sheet
A Porsche 944 build sheet typically contains the following:
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) – Identifies the model year and production sequence.
Paint Code – Factory exterior color (e.g., L908 Grand Prix White).
Interior Code – Specifies interior trim materials and colors (e.g., LT Brown Leatherette).
Option Codes – A series of M-codes (e.g., M030 for sport suspension, M220 for LSD).
Step 3: Decode the Option Codes
Here are some of the most common and sought-after Porsche 944 option codes:
Performance & Handling Options
M030 – Sport Suspension Package (upgraded shocks, thicker sway bars, firmer springs).
M220 – Limited-Slip Differential (LSD) (improves traction and handling).
M398 – Forged Fuchs Wheels (lightweight, highly desirable).
M474 – Koni Sport Shock Absorbers (standard on 944 Turbo & S2).
M650 – Removable Targa Roof Panel (popular on all 944 models).
Brakes & Transmission
M186 – Battery Cut-Off Switch (for race and security purposes).
M197 – Stronger Alternator (common on Turbo models).
M395 – 16-inch Light Alloy Wheels (option on non-Turbo models).
M401 – 16-inch Forged Flat Disc Wheels (rare factory wheels).
Luxury & Comfort Features
M139 – Heated Driver’s Seat.
M340 – Heated Passenger Seat.
M650 – Electric Sunroof (power-operated).
M454 – Cruise Control.
M533 – Anti-Theft Alarm System.
Special Editions & Rare Features
M491 – Turbo Look (Widebody) Package.
M470 – Comfort Package (enhanced interior and sound insulation).
M711 – Special Steering Wheel (Non-Standard Color).
M980 – Full Leather Interior (dash, doors, seats in full leather trim).
Step 4: Verify Your Car’s Authenticity
To ensure the build sheet matches the actual car: Compare option codes with what’s physically on the car (e.g., limited-slip diff, sport seats). You should also check the paint code under the hood or on the door jamb. Obviously, matching the VIN with production records is key and finally, don't forget to request a Porsche COA from Porsche for official documentation.
