I've been researching a lot of cars to consider for a project car, and I'm heavily leaning toward a 944. My primary goal is to put together a car that will be driven for fun and a good autocross car. My initial budget is around $10,000 for the car and upgrades.

After reading about the changes made over each model year, it looks like the 1989 forward version is the car to get for the best initial package (with a Turbo, LSD, M030 suspension, bigger brakes, etc.) But, of course, the prices are higher for this version as opposed to an 86-88 turbo.

I'm wondering if anyone has taken a 86-88 turbo version and added the aftermarket parts to get it equivalent to or similar to what comes stock on the 89- versions, and if so, what the price difference is in approaching it this way.

Essentially, I'm wondering what the cost differences would be to buy an older cheaper turbo and improve it to an 89 standard, or pay a larger amount up front new version.

I know it's a rather specific question, so any advice or insight into this type of project would be much appreciated. Thanks!