The Porsche 928 S4
A grand touring car from a company known primarily for building sports cars, the Porsche 928 proved immensely popular. A 5.0-liter V8 produces 316 horsepower and 317 lb/ft of torque. It can be equipped with either a three or five speed manual gearbox.
Power
Priced higher than its Porsche 911 rival and with slower performance specs than its competitor, the 928 initially proved difficult to sell when first released; nevertheless it persevered, providing drivers who can afford one an enjoyable driving experience. A great one such as this still delivers that experience today.
This specific model is equipped with a 5.0-litre 32v V8 that produces 320 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque – impressive figures for any luxury grand tourer, especially one developed in-house by Porsche itself. A four-speed automatic transmission matched to this V8 ensures maximum output.
The water-cooled all-alloy V8 engine in the Mercedes C Class was designed for flexibility and docility, so it runs on regular petrol with ease. When revved hard it can produce some sound; however with its loud exhaust noise and wind noise entering the cabin it doesn’t quite meet silent sports car standards.
In 1980, the car underwent its initial major upgrade: adding the S suffix to signify a more powerful 234-hp version. A second major change came with 1985’s transition to an efficient 5.0-litre unit producing 316 hp that featured stronger torque tubes and piston skirts designed to prevent oil drainback into cylinders.
Changes during this period included a more modern front end with rounded headlights and fog lights. Furthermore, a larger radiator was installed as well as thermostatically operated cooling shutters in order to reduce drag during high-speed cruising.
Practicality-wise, the 928 can be considered a 2+2 car with two small rear seats intended to accommodate children for short trips and two fold-flat rear seats that can further expand its boot capacity when folded down. Meanwhile, front-seat occupants enjoy ample leg and headroom.
Performance
From your very first moment behind the wheel of a Porsche 928 S4, it becomes apparent that this sports car stands apart. It is larger than life; faster than any vehicle on the road and superior in style to nearly every other model you may have ever seen. Furthermore, its unerring sense of purpose allows it to attack every bend with incredible grip – truly unparalleled even today’s standards!
This rear-wheel drive car was created with the intention of taking full advantage of a large displacement, water-cooled V8 engine’s potential in terms of both power and performance. Originally, prototypes used 5.0 L four barrel carburetors producing close to 300 horsepower; as concerns about cost and availability led Porsche to consider using smaller engines for production cars, engineers began drawing specs for 3.3 L 180bhp units; however ultimately the original 5.0 L unit was retained due to its ability to rev to 6800rpm, offering sufficient torque delivery.
North American markets received the S3 engine, with its 4.0 L, 32-valve version of the V8, in 1985. This smog-friendly variant received power via Bosch L-Jetronic injection and produced 288 horsepower (although this figure could increase up to 320 in European markets with high compression versions with four valves per cylinder).
Over its 18-year production cycle, the 928 was subject to constant upgrades and enhancements that improved its engineering, suspension, brakes and interior. These developments helped establish it as one of the most enduring and desirable modern classics.
The 928 S4 offers an exceptionally comfortable driving experience with its smooth ride, excellent visibility and spacious, well-appointed cabin. While its rear seats have less head and leg room than those found up front, they remain perfectly usable; plus its power to reach 62 mph in four seconds is no burden either!
Comfort
The Porsche 928 S4’s interior is an example of 1970s decadence, boasting an airy feel with two seats facing each other in two rows for optimal two-plus-two seating (though the rear seats may be small). It was highly equipped by Porsche standards with power windows, air conditioning, premium Blaupunkt stereo system, power windows, air conditioning controls and its original paint still appearing near flawless with only some minor blemishes to door panels and windscreen.
This car is powered by a 5.0-litre V8, producing 235 kW; 316 horsepower in most markets and featuring a five-speed manual gearbox. Built using aluminum components for weight savings, its engine allows future models to offer increased horsepower as well as design updates.
Even though not technically considered a sportscar, the 928 was agile enough to offer an enjoyable driving experience. Thanks to its 50:50 weight distribution and powerful all-aluminum V8, its 50:50 weight distribution made driving smooth, sure-footed and quick; its steering was exceptionally precise with an intelligent Weissach Axle system designed to minimise understeer.
On the road, the 928 was adept at handling rough roads with relative ease; however, its sharp ride caused its wheels to frequently crash over potholes and cats-eyes, often producing an unpleasant sound as well as frequent tire rumbles.
Porsche introduced their GTS variant with a powerful 5.4-litre engine capable of producing 320 hp; equipped with larger front brakes and distinct bodywork, these cars could cost as much as $100,000 when new, which was enough to dampen sales significantly.
Today, the 928 is a highly collectible collector’s item. Thanks to its long list of standard equipment and highly efficient drivetrain, it offers an affordable alternative to 911s. Though never quite dethroning its legendary predecessor from its perch, its attempts at taking an alternative path for Porsche almost four decades ago was indeed bold and pioneered the use of multi-link rear axles that eventually found their way into later models including 993s and later ones.
Space
The 928 was not only ahead of its time; it was also designed to be comfortable and practical on long drives. Although not the roomiest car available, its rear seat space allows adults to travel comfortably behind its seats while providing enough storage room in both its trunk and cabin area.
Even though it was a large car, the 928 was relatively straightforward to maneuver and park. Its steering wheel features a small diameter yet is large in diameter for ease of handling, while controls and instruments were all straightforwardly laid out – this made driving especially when equipped with manual transmission a pleasant experience.
This 1987 Porsche 928 S4 is an ideal example of its model in its prime. Boasting an accident-free Carfax report and featuring an eye-catching burgundy interior that’s rare among these models, this particular example also comes equipped with several minor modifications designed to improve performance while further enhance its aesthetic value.
This car stands out for more reasons than just its excellent condition; its full maintenance history and ownership by one owner since 1991 are among its many unique qualities that make this Porsche so extraordinary.
Here are a few intriguing details about the 928:
Did you know that early cars featured starters attached directly to their lower bellhousing, while later ones used one attached to a braket? This change was implemented because rail transport vehicles could no longer accommodate for their width.
Raymond Boutinaud entered a Porsche 928 S at Le Mans in 1984, setting an unofficial 24 hour world speed record at Nardo circuit by averaging 165.4 mph during that 24 hour race. Although the car did not finish the event, its success included setting a new 24 hour world record at Nardo of an average speed of 165.5mph over its 24 hour journey.
The Porsche 928 was an innovative sports car ahead of its time and continues to hold strong as an attractive classic that quickly appreciates in value due to its distinctive exterior design and powerful V8 engine. Ideal for anyone wanting an affordable option when purchasing their Porsche, the 928 is also great option for anyone who desires a vehicle from this legendary automaker.
