The Porsche 928 From Weird Science to Risky Business
The Porsche 928 was once an extremely sought-after car, featuring in classic films such as Weird Science and Risky Business; even today it still attracts much admiration when driving down the street.
The short-wheelbase car was intended to resemble a dynamic dumbbell, with major masses located at its extremities to generate an effective polar moment.
What is a 928?
Porsche made their first attempt at diversifying their portfolio beyond 911-derived sports cars when the 928 was unveiled in 1977, as it provided grand touring comfort with 2+2 seating and plenty of creature comforts.
This striking, wedge-shaped body was an unorthodox departure from more conventional Porsche shapes, and received critical acclaim for its aerodynamic styling – even winning Motor Car of the Year for 1978!!
Even with rave reviews, the 928 was only slow sellers due to the oil crisis making sports cars less desirable among buyers; but more significantly due to being too costly at its time: loaded GTS models could cost over $100,000 and were out of reach of many prospective customers.
Porsche responded to criticisms of the 928 by providing additional options and packages, raising its cost, but improving performance, such as larger front brakes and more powerful engine. But this wasn’t enough: production ceased in 1995 with its GTS model being replaced by the more aggressive 928 S4 version.
As time has gone on, the Porsche 928 has become a sought-after collector’s item. But its fair market value can differ depending on its model year and condition; generally speaking, an S or S4 with 100,000 miles will sell for about $12,000; GTSs might fetch twice this figure; mileage increases with better condition; manual transmission vehicles command higher premiums.
The 928 is an exceptional car that excels at both on-track racing and road driving. Powered by its 4.7-liter V8, which delivers more than 300 horsepower, and paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from zero to 100km/h takes only 5.7 seconds while top speeds top 320km/h.
Ferdinand Porsche believed that sports cars offered superior transportation over regular sedans. Though he may have been dissatisfied with what people were associating his name with today, his philosophy lives on in the 928 and other Porsche models made since then.
What is a 928’s powertrain?
The Porsche 928’s large V8 engine may be its hallmark feature. At 4.4 L, its output provides an ample 230 horsepower at 6,250rpm and 253lb-ft of torque at 4,500rpm, making this car fast yet comfortable and perfect for long road trips. If you’re searching for an attractive classic European sports car that can keep up with your driving style, the 928 should top your list.
This car is also an engineering marvel when it comes to weight distribution. The front wheels are placed farther forward than normal, which enables faster response to driver commands and increased traction even in slow turns, thus reducing fatigue for driver.
To meet this aim, the front suspension features a double-wishbone layout similar to what is found in Formula One cars. This design proves especially helpful in this kind of vehicle as it transfers load from its heavier front wheels onto lighter rear ones – saving money and improving efficiency in performance.
Anti-dive and anti-squat geometry on the front axle contributes to its agility; it is necessary due to the 928’s low-centered front end and polar moment making it susceptible to torque steer. Polar moments refer to differences in center of gravity between wheels; when they are close together like this one does, vehicles have a tendency to transfer load onto back wheels rather than front.
Porsche engineers considered various drivetrain configurations during early development of the 928. They ultimately selected a front engine/rear wheel drive arrangement due to its ability to reduce emissions and noise control issues encountered with previous 911 designs, and because mid engined designs wouldn’t provide sufficient room for transmission, catalytic converters, and exhaust systems.
The 928 was intended to be a grand tourer, and it certainly delivers in that respect. Comfortable seating space and well-equipped features make the car an excellent choice for long journeys across country or across state lines. Furthermore, its intelligent suspension ensures it can handle almost every driving situation effortlessly.
What is a 928’s suspension?
The Porsche 928’s front and rear suspension components were built to withstand high loads at high speeds, but like any component they have a finite lifespan and must eventually be upgraded or replaced in order to continue functioning effectively. Most 928 owners first consider replacing rubber suspension bushings found on control arms, sway bars, banana links and rear “banana” links with more modern polyurethane versions for improved turn-in and mid-corner handling; replacing with modern polyurethane variants sharpens turn-in and mid cornering handling as well as cost. For most 928 owners this upgrade alone may suffice as its improved handling outweighs costs considerably
Replacement shock absorbers should also be considered. As the 928 is a heavy car that places considerable strain on its shocks, over time they may wear out or lose effectiveness over time and with use. Sportier drivers may wish to upgrade to new Club Sport-specification springs which are 10% stiffer than original factory originals for improved handling by bringing down its ride height slightly while simultaneously improving handling by moving closer to the road surface.
Some 928 owners opt to take their car’s capabilities even further by installing adjustable coilovers – giving their ride an aggressive stance and enabling the driver to fine-tune dampening according to individual preferences. However, this upgrade should only be undertaken by experienced automotive technicians.
What are 928’s brakes?
A great car requires more than powerful engines and beautiful bodies, it also must feature an outstanding braking system. Ferdinand Porsche believed that sports cars should provide superior transportation over sedans; his belief formed the basis of his company. Because of this belief, Porsche brakes are designed and built for exceptional stopping power and driving dynamics.
The front brakes on a Porsche 928 consist of two-piece rotors with monobloc calipers that are specially designed to withstand both regular street driving and rigorous track day sessions. Black is standard; silver and red systems are optional. In addition to performance options like ceramic brake pads that reduce dusting and curb wear, Porsche offers ceramic pads which reduce dusting. Unlike many modern SUVs that provide only vague control without fade or shudder.
Braking issues could be an indicator that your front brake pads have become worn or leaking. If you hear screeching sounds when braking or feel vibrations when applying pressure to the pedal, it may be time for new pads. A burning smell could also signal that they have overheated.
Are You Searching for Front Brake Pads for your Porsche 928? Advance Auto Parts has everything you need – top brands from Hella Pagid and Textar will ensure high quality pads! Plus we carry various thicknesses and compounds, so we have something perfect to meet any vehicle.
Porsche engineers installed an advanced braking system into every 928. You’ll also find various parts and hardware to maintain this impressive braking system, such as the brake bleeder kit which helps bleed your brakes properly, eliminating air pockets in caliper slides.
If you need new brakes for your Porsche 928, check out Advance Auto Parts’ selection of premium products at unbeatably low prices online or at your local Advance Auto Parts store. With us by your side, you can restore its remarkable braking abilities so that you can enjoy road trips and races with complete peace of mind.