The May 1982 Car and Driver described the Porsche 944 as "the most seductive combination of economy and performance money can buy."

The 944 contained elements of the earlier 924 and 928 models and was positioned from a marketing standpoint between them.

Production began in 1981 and in 1985 came a turbocharged version. In 1992 production stopped after 163,249 units in total had been produced. The 944 was replaced by the closely related 968.

The engine used in the 1983 model was a four cylinder, single overhead camshaft. 100x78mm, 2479cc. Compression ratio: 10.6:1. Fuel injection. Max power: 163bhp at 5800rpm. Max torque: 151lb/ft at 3000rpm. Transmission was five-speed manual.

Front suspension was independent, MacPherson strut. Rear suspension was independent, semi-trailing arms, torsion bars.