Porsche 944 Turbo Transaxle Part Numbers: The Complete Guide

If you own a Porsche 944 Turbo, the transaxle is one of the most critical components. Whether you're replacing a worn unit, upgrading to a stronger version, or simply need the correct part number for maintenance, knowing the exact transaxle part number for your specific car is essential. The 944 Turbo transaxle is not a one-size-fits-all part; different model years, market specifications, and even production batches used different units. This guide covers the OEM part numbers, how to identify your transaxle, compatibility between years, and practical advice for sourcing the right unit.

Understanding the 944 Turbo Transaxle

The Porsche 944 Turbo (often referred to as the 951 internally) uses a rear-mounted transaxle that combines the transmission and differential into one unit. This design helps achieve near 50/50 weight distribution. The transaxle is a Getrag unit, typically the 016 or 026 series, with different gear ratios and final drives depending on the model year and market. The part number stamped on the transaxle casing is your key to finding the correct replacement or service parts.

Key Differences Between Model Years

Early 944 Turbo models (1983–1985 in some markets, but officially 1985½ for US) used a different transaxle than later cars. The 1986 model year introduced an updated transaxle with revised synchros and a different final drive ratio. Later 1988 and 1989 models (including the Turbo S/951S) received further improvements. Knowing your car's year and VIN range is the first step in narrowing down the part number.

OEM Part Numbers by Year

Below are the factory Porsche part numbers for the complete transaxle assembly. Note that these numbers are for the entire unit; individual internal components have their own part numbers.

1986 Porsche 944 Turbo (US Model)

• Part number: 951.302.101.00 (or 951.302.101.01 superseded)
• This is the most common 944 Turbo transaxle in the US. It features a 3.375:1 final drive ratio.

1987 Porsche 944 Turbo

• Part number: 951.302.101.02
• Similar to the 1986 unit but with minor internal revisions.

1988–1989 Porsche 944 Turbo

• Part number: 951.302.101.03 (for standard Turbo)
• For the Turbo S (1988–1989), the part number is 951.302.101.04.
• The Turbo S transaxle has a different final drive (3.444:1) and reinforced internals.

European and RoW Models

European 944 Turbos (especially early 1985) may use part numbers starting with 944.302.XXX.XX. For example, a 1985 944 Turbo (M/Y 1985) often uses 944.302.100.00. These units have a slightly different final drive and gear ratios optimized for higher speeds.

How to Find Your Transaxle Part Number

The easiest way to identify your transaxle is to look at the sticker or stamping on the casing. The official part number is usually located near the front of the transaxle, on the side facing the front of the car. It may be on a metal tag or stamped directly into the aluminum. The format is typically "951.302.101.0X" for US cars. If the sticker is missing, you can also use the VIN to cross-reference with Porsche parts catalogs.

Using the VIN

Porsche parts diagrams are available online from dealership parts departments and enthusiast sites. Enter your VIN into a genuine Porsche parts catalog to see the exact part number assigned to your car when built. This is the most reliable method if the transaxle sticker is gone.

Visual Inspection

If you have the transaxle removed, you can measure the ring gear diameter and count the teeth to determine the final drive ratio. This helps distinguish between standard Turbo and Turbo S units, as well as European versus US spec. However, for ordering parts, the stamped part number is essential because internal gear ratios also vary.

Common Replacement Part Numbers

If you are replacing the complete transaxle, you have a few options based on what you want to achieve:

Stock Replacement

• For 1986–1987 US Turbo: 951.302.101.02 (or the earlier 951.302.101.00, but they are interchangeable)
• For 1988–1989 US Turbo: 951.302.101.03
• For Turbo S: 951.302.101.04

These are direct OEM replacements. If you buy a used transaxle, ensure it matches your car's year or you may need to swap the input shaft and bellhousing.

Upgraded Units

Many enthusiasts swap to a later Turbo S transaxle for its shorter final drive and stronger gears. You can also source a rebuilt unit from a specialist that uses upgraded bearings and synchros. The part numbers for the core remain the same, but rebuilt units often have a different core charge.

944 Turbo vs. 944 NA Transaxles

Do not use a naturally aspirated 944 transaxle in a Turbo. The Turbo unit is heavier-duty, with different input shaft spline count and gear ratios. The part numbers do not interchange.

Compatibility and Upgrades

If you are considering swapping transaxles between model years, note these key points:

Input Shaft Length

Early 944 Turbo transaxles (1986) have a shorter input shaft than later ones (1988–1989). If you use a later transaxle in an early car, you need a different clutch disc or lengthen the shaft. Conversely, an early transaxle in a late car may cause the clutch to not disengage properly.

Bellhousing and Mounts

All 944 Turbo transaxles share the same bolt pattern and mount points. The bellhousing is integral to the transaxle casing, so you cannot swap it separately. However, the transaxle mount (to the rear crossmember) is the same across all years.

Speedometer Drive

US and European transaxles use different speedometer gears. If you install a European unit in a US car, your speedometer will read incorrectly. You can swap the speedometer drive gear from your old transaxle to the new one, but it requires disassembly of the final drive.

Sourcing the Right Transaxle

When buying a used Porsche 944 Turbo transaxle, always verify the part number and ask for photos of the stamping. Many sellers list "944 Turbo transaxle" but it might be from a different year or even a non-Turbo. Look for these signs of a correct unit:

• The casting number is 951.302.XXX.XX (not 944.302.XXX.XX)
• The input shaft has 23 splines (Turbo) vs. 22 for NA models.
• The final drive ratio: US 1986–1987 is 3.375:1, US 1988–1989 Turbo is 3.375:1? Actually the Turbo S is 3.444:1, standard Turbo 1988–1989 remains 3.375:1. Verify with gear ratio chart.

Rebuilt units from reputable Porsche specialists come with a warranty and are often the best choice for reliability. They will likely reuse the original core but with new bearings, synchros, and seals. Ask for the part number of the core they used, or provide your car's VIN so they can match it.

What to Avoid

• Transaxles from 944S (non-Turbo) have different final drive and gear ratios.
• Transaxles from early 944s (pre-1985) are not compatible without major modifications.
• Units with damaged case flanges (where the transaxle mounts meet the chassis) are difficult to seal properly.

Final Recommendation

For most 944 Turbo owners, the best approach is to stick with the original part number for your specific year. If you drive a 1986–1987 model, use 951.302.101.02 (or .00). For 1988–1989, use 951.302.101.03. If you have a Turbo S, hunt for 951.302.101.04. If you want an upgrade, the Turbo S transaxle is a common swap, but be prepared to address the input shaft length difference if your car is from 1986.

Always verify the part number before purchase. Whether you choose a used unit from a parted-out car or a rebuilt unit from a specialist, matching the part number to your car ensures correct fitment. Use online Porsche parts diagrams with your VIN to double-check. This method eliminates guesswork and saves you from the frustration of an incompatible transaxle.