Hi,
I would suggest going with a turbo model (951). I have owned a 84 944 and it was fun but lacked in power at only 147hp. If you are going to go with a 951 I suggest you try to find an 88-89 model. I own an 88 model and it is a great car, nothing like the pull of a turbo to get the blood pumping. Haven't drove it in about a year but, its been undergoing some modification. As far as the comment about having the hood up if you plan on driving it more than 3,000 miles a year....mine was up for oil changes and routine maintainance. It was my everyday driver for a long while. And needless to day I was a little tough on her when I first got herand she ran strong for me without problems. One thing to do is if you do end up getting one be sure you have record of the last timing belt replacement. Every 60k miles. Had one break prematurely in the 84 and luckily it was just idleing but, it was still a sad moment for sure.