1985 Porsche 944

Beneath the iconic Pagoda, the 1985 Porsche 944 put its near-perfect balance and transaxle engineering on full display along the twisting 1.35-mile Duryea Drive course. Its front-engine layout, mated to a rear gearbox, provided that quintessential 50:50 weight distribution—ideal for hustling through the nine technical turns.

Outfitted for hillclimb competition, the 944’s naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four—known for its crisp throttle response—was accompanied by upgrades to suspension and brakes, allowing it to attack corners with confidence and smooth transition onto each straight . As it crested the hill’s famous “Oh‑S**T” sweeper (Turn 6), the Porsche carried momentum perfectly, its engine note echoing through the trees.

Though it didn’t claim overall victory, the 944’s run impressed both spectators and competitors, showcasing classic Porsche virtues: balanced handling, mechanical purity, and driver-focused dynamics. Its smooth, analog performance on Pagoda Hill was a triumph for timeless sports car design—proof that the right chassis can still shine in a field of modern and vintage challengers.