The Porsche 928, introduced in 1977 as a bold departure from the iconic 911, remains a distinctive classic today. While its appeal hasn’t diminished, potential buyers must approach with diligence; neglecting due diligence can lead to costly repairs. Well-maintained examples—typically those with documented service histories and moderate mileage (around 100,000-150,000 miles)—hold their value surprisingly well, often appreciating rather than depreciating.
A Departure from Tradition
By the early 1970s, the Porsche 911 was showing its age, and sales were plateauing. Porsche responded with a radical shift: a front-engined, water-cooled grand tourer powered by an all-aluminum V8. This move shocked purists but ultimately created a vehicle that redefined Porsche’s capabilities. The 928 debuted at the 1977 Geneva Motor Show and won European Car of the Year, becoming the only sports car to achieve this honor in the award’s history.
Evolution of a Legend
The 928 underwent several iterations during its 18-year production run:
- 1977-1980 (Early 928): Initial models featured a 4.5-liter V8 producing 240 horsepower.
- 1980-1981 (928 S): Power increased to 300 horsepower with a larger 4.7-liter engine.
- 1982-1985 (928 S2): A slight upgrade to 310 horsepower, with power steering becoming standard.
- 1985-1988 (928 S4): The most significant upgrade, with a 4.9-liter engine delivering 320 horsepower and standard Brembo brakes with ABS.
- 1988-1991 (928 GT): A limited-production, sport-tuned version with a five-speed manual gearbox and enhanced suspension.
- 1991-1995 (928 GTS): The final iteration, boasting a 5.4-liter V8 producing 350 horsepower and a refined interior. Production ceased in 1995, with the last vehicles sold in 1996.
Market Values Today
Pricing varies widely based on condition and model year:
- Early 928s (S/S2): Starting around £10,000, but buyer beware; these require careful inspection.
- 928 S4: £15,000-£30,000, depending on condition.
- 928 GT: £20,000-£50,000, highly sought after by collectors.
- 928 GTS: £30,000+, with exceptional examples fetching double that.
The 928’s value has remained stable, making it a viable alternative to modern cars that rapidly depreciate.
Driving Experience
The 928 delivers a unique blend of grand touring comfort and surprising agility. Its 50:50 weight distribution and advanced suspension provide balanced handling, making it more capable than its size suggests. Later models benefit from updated brakes, steering, and suspension, enhancing the driving experience.
Which Model to Choose?
For budget-conscious buyers, early 928s offer the lowest entry point. However, later models (S4, GT, GTS) tend to be better maintained and more reliable. A well-preserved early car is often a safer bet than a neglected later model. Manual transmissions are preferred by enthusiasts, though most 928s were equipped with automatic gearboxes.
Alternatives
- Mercedes SEC (1979-1991): Luxurious and refined but less sporty.
- BMW 6 Series (1976-1989): A more engaging driver’s car with six-cylinder engines.
- Jaguar XJS (1975-1996): Offers sublime ride quality but lacks the 928’s precision.
Key Checks Before Buying
- Bodywork: Inspect for rust, particularly on the floorpans, sills, and windscreen surround.
- Engine: Expect oil consumption (approximately one liter per 500 miles). Check for coolant leaks, as radiator replacements are expensive.
- Running Gear: Be prepared for costly repairs if brakes, steering, or suspension need attention.
- Leaks: Inspect for water ingress from the tailgate and sunroof. Verify all electrical systems function correctly.
Running Costs
A neglected 928 can be financially ruinous. However, a well-maintained example can be surprisingly affordable to own, with insurance and road tax being relatively low. Fuel consumption can be high, particularly on earlier models (around 15 mpg). Expect service costs of £250-£550 per year, plus additional expenses for cambelt replacements (£600 every 4-5 years).
The Verdict
The Porsche 928 is a classic that rewards informed ownership. With careful selection and diligent maintenance, it can provide years of driving pleasure and potential appreciation in value. Buyers must approach with realism, recognizing that neglecting maintenance will inevitably lead to expensive repairs. The 928 is not just a car; it’s a statement – a testament to Porsche’s willingness to innovate and challenge convention.
