Porsche 928 Weissach Edition

The Weissach Edition adds even more luxurious touches to an already luxurious 928. Featuring medium brown leather upholstery and matching Seeger luggage set.

Even with its impressive power, the 928 is an exemplary grand touring car with perfect weight distribution and an innovative Weissach rear axle to prevent lift-throttle oversteer.

Powered by a 4.5-liter V8 engine

Since 1977, when first unveiled, the 928 has become one of Porsche’s iconic luxury cruisers – but over its 18 year lifespan has become much more. Its innovative design featured aluminum doors, bonnet and front wings for weight savings while its rear engine/transaxle layout provided 50/50 weight distribution.

The engine was an all-alloy V8, equipped with hydraulic tappets and fuel injection. Although initially rated at 296bhp, through several upgrades it could reach 300bhp; these included increasing the compression ratio to 10.01:1, installing Bosch L-Jetronic fuel injection, and high lift camshafts. Furthermore, suspension and brake modifications included changing from twin plate clutch to single plate operation; as well as numerous tweaks being made over time in terms of wheel offset settings.

All these changes helped produce a car that was both technologically cutting-edge when new, as well as being one of the cornerstones of handling even today. Indeed, in 1978 it was even chosen as International Car of the Year!

In 1982, Weissach Edition cars were created as special editions. Boasting champagne gold metallic paint with brushed aluminum flat disc wheels and two-tone leather interior, only 250 examples were ever made and this example is number 150 of them all.

The Weissach Edition car is both reliable and aesthetic. It was previously owned by an experienced and careful driver who kept it garaged; it has always been protected and taken care of; but has sat for two years and requires restoration work before returning to service; these rare and desirable vehicles would make an excellent investment opportunity!

Limited to only 250 units worldwide

Early on in its lifespan, the Porsche 928 served as a flagship model, symbolizing Porsche’s move upmarket from four cylinder VW components towards world-class luxury GT cars. It was an instantaneous hit and even won Car of the Year; notable innovations of which were an aluminum engine block and heads; disc brakes on all corners; and its famous Weissach axle which enabled higher cornering speeds.

Even with its advanced technologies, the 928 managed to remain an excellent driver’s car. Its front wheel drive layout, 50/50 weight distribution, and intelligent Weissach axle all contributed to its superior handling characteristics – making it an excellent long distance grand touring car.

In 1978, the Porsche 928 proved its immense success by winning the European Car of the Year award – usually reserved for mainstream saloons and hatchbacks from major manufacturers. As a sports car it made history by becoming the first ever to achieve such recognition due to its advanced technologies and innovative features.

At first, many loyal 911 fans of Porsche saw the 928 as something of a gamble by their company. Many felt like Porsche was moving too far from its roots by creating such an luxurious grand tourer with soft seating and comfort features.

Between 1981 and 1995, Porsche produced 250 Weissach Edition models to honor its unique design, engineering, and capabilities. This special edition was intended to draw attention to this car’s long production run; and made up of upgrades with their own distinctive characteristics and touches aimed specifically at Porsche enthusiasts. The Weissach Edition models came equipped with unique upgrades.

Finished in Champagne Gold Metallic

The Weissach Edition of Porsche 928s was made to mark their 50th anniversary, featuring unique exterior and interior color schemes, a powerful 4.5-liter V8 engine, rare 5-speed dogleg manual gearbox, and exclusive leather interior – one of the most valuable 928s ever built and an essential piece for any collector.

This 1989 Porsche 928 Weissach Edition is in excellent condition, boasting flawless paintwork and its all-original interior. Purchased new in the Bay Area and never driven in wet conditions, there are no signs of corrosion or wear; portions of its factory cosmoline remain on its underside! Additionally, its 4.5-liter V8 engine runs smoothly, as does its rare 5-speed dogleg manual gearbox which shifts properly – further adding value. Furthermore, the Weissach Edition also comes complete with its rare 3-piece luggage set – making this car even more valuable.

When the Porsche 928 first debuted in March 1977, it was an innovative car. As the first front-engined Porsche to feature 2+2 seating and rear-wheel drive – as well as boasting an engine with 219hp in America and 240hp in Europe – it revolutionized automobile design at its time. Fast and comfortable coupe for its time, the 928 was awarded European Car of the Year honors.

Even though the 928 was successful, it did not replace Porsche’s 911 as planned. Ernst Fuhrmann believed that their long-term future should focus on grand touring models with conventional engines; although his plans failed eventually, its pioneering technologies found their way onto later 911 models.

Finished in Black Leather

The Weissach Edition Porsche 928 is an extremely rare model limited to only 250 units worldwide. Created to commemorate the opening of Weissach R&D facility and serve as an enduring tribute to its rich history, it features Hellbronze metallic paint with black leather interior for an eye-catching finish.

It features an elegant design and special plaque on its dash plate to commemorate its limited production run. This rare collector’s vehicle is in good condition with some minor flaws; it has been sitting unused for two years so will require starting up and servicing before use; issues include animal chewing on wiring, missing mirror and various small defects.

While not as agile as its Porsche counterpart, the 928 has exceptional road holding and boasts a powerful V8 engine which ensures smooth linear acceleration. Furthermore, its luxurious driving experience features plenty of passenger space.

The Weissach is an ideal solution for anyone seeking a collectable car they can drive daily without incurring costly maintenance or insurance expenses. Plus, its comfortable ride makes driving more pleasurable!

The Weissach Edition does not boast any performance upgrades, but does add some luxury touches to the standard 928. Available in several different colors – such as Hellbronze metallic – it includes three-piece leather luggage set from Seeger. Furthermore, its distinctive front spoiler sets it apart from regular 928 models; North America saw this model during the 1980s.

Finished in Silver Metallic

A Weissach Edition Porsche 928 model is an extremely rare and costly variant. Only 202 were sold in North America during 1982 model year and featured unique features such as brushed gold flat disc wheels, two-tone leather interiors and three-piece luggage sets from Porsche. Furthermore, each dashboard featured an “production number plaque”. These cars are highly sought after due to their special characteristics and beautiful paintwork.

The Weissach Edition was Porsche’s attempt at positioning the 928 as a luxury GT sportscar, hoping that it could compete with top European luxury models such as BMW 7-series and Ford Granada at that time. It proved successful and helped restore Porsche as an icon among world class sportscar makers; indeed it won European Car of the Year 1978 over mainstream sedans from other manufacturers!

At various points throughout its 18-year production run, the 928 received various updates to both its engine and design. One key engineering change involved installing a rear suspension that avoided “nose-diving”, a phenomenon which had led to many serious accidents. To do this, more freedom was granted for front axle and bottom wishbone movements so as to cancel out understeer.

Lewis Johnsen purchased this 928 Weissach from Lee Klinger Porsche of Chicago which featured in Risky Business. Since then he has restored and maintained it meticulously to keep it in pristine condition; making this item truly collectible with all original factory manuals, certificates of authenticity and warranty documentation present.

 

Ferry Porsche and the Porsche 928

The Porsche 928 was an icon, being one of a select few vehicles to ever win European Car of the Year honors. With futuristic styling that conveyed performance and sophistication, its futuristic looks set it apart.

Some purists criticize the 928 as not being an authentic Porsche, and they may well be right; yet its introduction marked an almost poetic celebration of fundamental automotive values held dear by Porsche.

Ferdinand Porsche

Ferdinand Porsche was born September 3rd 1875 in Maffersdorf in Bohemia (now Czech Republic) within Austria-Hungary. Although Anton expected his son Ferdinand to take over his plumbing workshop, Ferdinand instead became fascinated with electricity – fitting battery powered lights into his skates even at age three! At age 18 he joined Bela Egger & Co of Vienna (later Brown Boveri), patenting an electric wheel hub motor.

In 1904 he moved on to Lohner where he worked for eight years. In 1910 he won the Prince Heinrich race driving an Austro-Daimler car that he designed himself. Shortly afterwards he opened an engineering and consultancy practice specializing in engine and vehicle design which would later go on to develop trendsetting solutions for Wanderer, Zundapp and NSU as well as complete vehicles such as 356 series or Cisitalia racing car designs.

As early as the late 1970s, Porsche executives became concerned that its flagship 911 was rapidly nearing its sell by date. As part of Porsche’s ambitions for Grand Touring luxury car sales, large and more luxurious models appeared likely as Porsche looked ahead.

So a project was begun to create a vehicle to replace the 911. Ferdinand Porsche needed to agree, though it took much pleading before he eventually gave his blessing.

Rudolf Wagner had designed an engine which not only produced more power per litre than any previous Porsche engine but would be the basis of all future Porsche engines. This V8 unit would serve as the cornerstone of all future Porsche engines.

Ferdinand Porsche passed away tragically in January 1951 after leaving behind one of the greatest automotive engineers ever seen, Ferry Porsche, to continue the family engineering legacy. Additionally, Ferdinand had seen his design for the 356 series take shape at Zuffenhausen production facilities.

The 928 Project

The Porsche 928 project began in 1971 as a means of replacing their iconic 911. Due to various familial tensions and general inertia, Ferry Porsche was looking to move his company in a more businesslike direction, and development of the 928 was one step towards this end.

The 928 was an instantaneous hit and quickly rose in popularity over time, becoming one of the most beloved cars of its era. Unfortunately, however, some Porsche purists view it as not truly being part of Porsche’s legacy; such individuals may consider that some components may not belong on an authentic 911. Although such opinions are entitled to their opinion; the 928 is also an almost poetic reflection on Porsche’s commitment and appreciation of automotive verities.

Its engine is truly exquisite; an ideal combination of German and American technical know-how. Torque spans all ranges, and remains smooth all the way up to redline – realizing an enthusiast dream: creating a sports racing car suitable for street use.

As well as being an absolute pleasure to drive, the 928 is also extremely practical and versatile for four-seat use. Both rear seats can comfortably fit adults while its trunk provides ample space for luggage. Furthermore, its interior boasts quality appointments.

Porsche 928s remain an excellent choice for those who desire something unique and eye-catching, thanks to their impressive modern car performance and sporty roadster features. Driving can be fun while still providing comfort on long trips.

The Porsche 928 may not be for everyone, but if you are passionate about Porsche and want to support its history through purchase and ownership of other Porsche products then this car might be right for you. Otherwise there are other choices within their extensive portfolio available from Porsche.

The 928 Design

The Porsche 928 debuted at the 1977 Geneva Motor Show and went on to become European Car of the Year 1978 – a first in Porsche history. It featured numerous distinct qualities that set it apart, particularly its exceptional roadholding and poise due to a rear suspension system called double wishbones.

In other words, two forged aluminium lower control arms connected by rubber bushings to an upper arm connected by means of two rubber bushings provided for greater axle positioning flexibility – something particularly beneficial in a car such as the 928 with its long wheelbase and high center of gravity.

Another remarkable aspect is the steering system. Unlike many cars of its time and today, this car employs an inertial type with a gyroscope for feedback that makes steering feel much more precise and natural.

This type of system provides for an exceptionally comfortable ride on both smooth roads and at higher speeds, even on rougher surfaces or at greater speeds. A wide track and large tires with excellent grip enable this smoothness; front-wheel drive also contributes to this smoothness by keeping front wheels from locking under hard cornering.

Porsche’s designers succeeded in making the 928 appear both modern and timeless at once. For instance, its doors and rear quarter windows echoed those found on a Porsche 911; similarly, its round headlights looked similar but actually opened when required, just like in Lamborghini Miuras.

Additionally, the cockpit was designed for maximum space and comfort. A flat latch on the underside of the steering column allows height adjustments without altering pedal reach, while multiple seat adjustments were available.

In 1991, Porsche unveiled their 928 GTS version which offered more powerful engines and an aggressive suspension to improve performance under experienced driving.

The 928 Engine

The Porsche 928 featured a large front-mounted water-cooled V-8 engine, designed as the successor of the 911. As its first Porsche to use such an intense drivetrain, early development included several possible layouts; due to space restrictions and emissions control challenges, engine, transmission, catalytic converters, exhausts all being compacted together behind would have created less than desirable emissions levels as well as noise issues within the cabin.

Porsche had never before used such a massive displacement engine before; until that point they had utilized only rear or mid-mounted air-cooled flat engines. This new design allowed Porsche engineers to design an aerodynamic car with minimal overhangs and an interior that was both spacious and comfortable for all passengers.

Even at high output levels, the engine was relatively silent due in part to Porsche’s specially developed sound-suppression system that employed special materials and an innovative muffler design which provided superior noise suppression compared with typical cars in this category.

Like most high performance cars of its era, the 928 was not cheap when it first went on sale; however, it was considerably more affordable than many sports cars and many customers saw its value.

Over its 18 year production run, the Porsche 928 underwent numerous updates. Most notable among them was in 1985 when four-valve per cylinder was added to increase horsepower to 288. GTS became the first model with this larger valvetrain; additionally it also received more aggressive styling and 17″ wheels.

Porsche decided to give the 928 one last shot at relevance by offering limited production of the 928 GTS. Equipped with an upgraded V-8 that increased output to 345 horsepower, as well as more aggressive suspension settings and upgraded front brakes that could handle its increased horsepower output, this variant featured one final attempt at relevance from Porsche.

Porsche 928 Buyer’s Guide

Many buyers of the 928 will be drawn to it due to its striking exterior or its luxury and speed in S4 and beyond models, but regardless of your motivations for purchasing one you must locate a specialist with knowledge in these complex cars.

An inspection from an experienced 928 specialist will save you significant money over time.

What to Look For

The Porsche 928 is widely considered one of the finest examples from this legendary maker. While some may argue it lacks some aspects found in its sister model, 911, this car still offers unique charm with its rear-wheel drive layout, large aluminum V8 engine, lightweight body construction, great fuel economy and luxurious interior – an ideal combination for anyone seeking an engaging high performance sports car driving experience.

This vehicle first debuted in 1977 and remained in production for 17 years – one of the longest-running models from Porsche. While its basic design remained mostly the same over the course of production, spoilers and equipment were added throughout that time to personalize its appearance and enhance performance.

Buyers looking to acquire a used Porsche 928 should do their due diligence when shopping for one, thoroughly examining it for signs of damage, corrosion and any other issues as well as researching its history to see how well-cared-for it has been over time.

Before purchasing a used Porsche 928, it is crucial to inspect it for signs of corrosion both exterior and under the hood. Pay particular attention to any wheel well areas where salt or other road debris have collected; and where the front fender meet body. Have an expert inspect the car prior to making your decision in order to reduce future headaches.

Examining the interior of your vehicle to ascertain its state is also recommended, particularly its leather seats which should show no cracking or tears and peeling dash panels; furthermore, both shift knob and wheel should be in good condition.

An engine compartment that is clean and organized should also be carefully evaluated, since a poorly organized space may lead to various issues. Make sure to examine wiring as well as sensor and ground straps to see if they have corrosion deposits on them.

Don’t Be Afraid to Drive

A Porsche 928 is an attractive supercar that must be cared for to remain usable, yet neglected for too long has taken its toll. Years of neglect, low values and shortsighted owners has left many in poor condition; finding one may take more work than ever – look for an example with proper specifications and history as your ideal candidate.

Before making your choice, it is a good idea to test drive several 928s. By learning about different models and their performance characteristics as well as witnessing what a good 928 looks like in person, test drives can provide invaluable knowledge. Furthermore, ensure it’s driven on an ideal road and inspect the interior fully as well.

A good 928 should provide comfortable long drives without feeling like an army truck. It should be quick enough for autobahn use but still provide reasonable cruising speeds; its handling and braking should work smoothly while its engine should produce pleasant noises and vibrations.

If your 928 is running rough or unreliably, it could need serious refurbishing – or at the very least some extensive maintenance. Check for oil consumption, decreased cooling air flow or excessive rust. Likewise, review its history as far as electronic systems go; when purchasing used cars for restoration projects make sure to consider parts costs when calculating purchase prices.

A Porsche 928 may never be inexpensive, but investing in one is well worth your while. Do not fall prey to paying too much for a car that needs extensive repair to bring it up to standard; when comparing auction prices be sure to factor in costs for parts, labor, and upgrades as part of the calculation of purchase price. For optimal results it is wise to buy an operating and driving condition car which needs minor cosmetic restoration later if desired in order to avoid getting trapped into costly projects you won’t be able to complete in time.

Don’t Be Afraid to Test Drive

Some purists may claim that the 928 isn’t an “authentic” Porsche; while they might have a point, this car was truly remarkable. Despite its massive size and intimidating presence, it offered incredible driver engagement with an array of settings that allowed users to customize the driving experience exactly to their preference – not forgetting its spacious rear seats and large boot space!

Although not inexpensive to own, the 928 represented excellent value for money compared to other cars of its day. Its 240bhp V8 was relatively efficient and could run on 95 octane fuel; furthermore, its handling capabilities were superior.

Over its 18 year production run, the Porsche 928 underwent some minor modifications; these were only superficial. It remained an outstanding piece of engineering and would have fit seamlessly with either BMW or Mercedes designs, yet only Porsche could have brought it to market.

Before purchasing a used Porsche 928, it’s crucial to test drive it to assess how it handles and feels. Although its size and power make the car powerful enough, its cumbersome manual transmission and heavy clutch take some getting used to. Furthermore, inspect its condition; poorly kept vehicles can become expensive to repair; signs such as oil smoke or mismatched paint jobs indicate improper care taken during repair work and should be monitored closely as such repairs could prove costly in the future.

The ideal 928s will be in mint condition and come equipped with full provenance, including Porsche N0 ratings on original wheels. An owner’s manual, tool kit, compressor, gloves and factory components should all be present, helping to determine their price; manual cars tend to fetch higher premiums; they typically consume around 20mpg on oil consumption too!

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions

Once every decade or so, a car emerges that forces automotive professionals to reconsider all of their preconceptions and conventional wisdom. The Porsche 928 is such a car; its incredible machine will blow your mind, take your socks off and possibly send your hat flying! Unfortunately not all 928s are created equal – many have been patched together, are good on paper but become unstable at suburban speeds or simply make poor driving experiences for their owners.

Finding an adequate 928 is all about asking the right questions and taking time to consider what you are purchasing. A 928 was an expensive car when new and will require significant investments over its lifespan to keep running smoothly.

Market conditions have since stabilized and better examples are steadily increasing in value – but that doesn’t mean basic rules of purchasing can be ignored. Make sure all doors open and close properly, do not be fooled by low mileage – the engine should have had extensive servicing done by an expert (928s use a lot of oil), replace clutch and steering pump components as soon as they wear out and look for signs of leakage in bodywork (mismatched paint or rust are telltale signs) prior to purchasing any car.

Check that all interior switches, particularly power seat switches and sunroof switches, work correctly – especially those on power seats; repairs for these items can be expensive. Also ensure the vacuum system works, particularly the door locks which rely on it. Lastly, verify tyre age is reasonable and that its odometer reading is accurate before purchasing; otherwise walk away; you wouldn’t expect running a Ferrari on Fiesta money!

 

Tony Lapine and the Porsche 928

Anatole Carl “Tony” Lapine left behind an unparalleled design legacy when he designed the Porsche 928. Additionally, he oversaw earlier front-engined models as well as two variations of the 911.

The 928’s design deliberately broke from Porsche convention and ItalDesign’s Giugiaro’s signature creased designs. He proved himself correct as it remains an enduring classic decades later.

Design

Tony Lapine’s passing away has left the world without another visionary designer and was responsible for one of the most beautiful cars ever to grace our roads – the Porsche 928. His work will live on as an inspiration.

He was an influential man with innovative ideas he was never afraid to express to the world. Not one to follow trends blindly, he set new ones himself; with cars like the Porsche 928 as proof. Additionally, he was an excellent storyteller with many humorous tales from his time spent working at Porsche.

After 17 years with General Motors – including working alongside Bill Mitchell on the Corvette and Monza GT/SS models – and six other individuals such as designers Dick Soderburg and Wolfgang Mobius as well as modeller Peter Reisinger plus engineers Jurgen Mayer and Dutchman Harm Lagaay joined Opel, they quickly left to join Porsche.

The new car was to be the successor to the 924 and represent a significant step forward for the company. Lapine led his design team in creating something which, depending on who saw it for the first time, either seduced or discomfited most first time viewers.

In an age dominated by low backs, the 928 stood out with its clean lines and graceful curves – an extremely beautiful car which still looks modern today.

As production continued on the 928, issues began to surface. To promote economy, engine and transaxle were placed slightly rearward for economy reasons; this caused its center of gravity to shift back under speed; not ideal in a tail-heavy car as there are various body-shaping techniques that try to counter this effect but often look ugly or increase drag.

The 928 was also disconcertingly wide; therefore management instructed its design team to reduce this by 15 cm by chamfering wheel corners and rounding off their edges.

Development

Porsche was experiencing declining success in America during the early 1970s as environmental and safety regulations tightened up, while sales for their 911 model neared their expected lifespan and depended upon this market segment for survival. Ernst Fuhrmann, the new CEO of Zuffenhausen-based company wanted a front engined two plus two car to replace it and give Porsche an opportunity to compete in GT categories like GT racing.

Lapine joined Porsche after 14 years with General Motors where he had played an instrumental role on both Corvette and Opel GT models.

Harm Lagaay joined four colleagues from Opel – including design engineer Dick Soderburg and chief modeler Wolfgang Mobius – when they relocated to Porsche and established a new studio there. Together with Harm Lagaay they designed both the 924 and 928, the latter being their most notable creation.

The team worked on developing the concept for the 928 from its conception until its finalization in 1983, marking a radical departure for Porsche that challenged both automotive technology and production car engineering – yet proved immensely popular both commercially and critically. Many drivers at that time saw it as fulfilling their dreams; many still do today!

The 928 was not only a driver’s car; it also offered a luxurious and civilized touring experience, with superb handling in twisty terrain, an astounding top speed of 271 km/h and enough cargo space to carry multiple people or luggage comfortably – something no other car of its time could do! Yet its designers managed to obscure its size by playing with lines, hiding its vast width (186mm wider than the 911), using plenty of curves to make the car appear smaller, and more compact.

Production

The 928 GT sports car from Porsche was one of their finest efforts during its initial decade of production. Boasting an oversized V8 powerplant – with 259BHP at 5.4-litre displacement and producing just 4.7 seconds from 0-60mph – it was considered among one of the fastest cars of its time.

Though powerful, the 928 was designed as an everyday touring car with civilized comfort in mind. Its chassis offered an optimal balance between handling and ride quality while its suspension provided good adjustability. Furthermore, ‘Club Sport’ versions offered even greater capabilities with wider 8x 19″ front and 9x 18″ rear forged Club One alloys as well as higher performance tyres, an upgraded instrument cluster, and leather sports seats – providing for increased capability over its counterparts.

On April 29 – less than two weeks after Ferdinand Piech’s tragic demise – another esteemed designer passed away, this time Latvian-born Anatole Carl ‘Tony’ Lapine. As head of design at Porsche for 21 years between 1967 and 1988, Lapine oversaw the design and creation of both front-engined 924s and 928s as well as two revisions of their iconic 911 models.

Lapine was an immensely talented and charismatic individual, fluent in four languages and wide-ranging interests spanning painter/artist/musician (organ and violin). Additionally, Lapine had a knack for understanding his customers and always kept an eye out for emerging trends.

Lapine made his most significant mark on Porsche with the 928, an innovative supercar designed by Wolfgang Mobius and styled by Lapine that stood out from its predecessors by featuring an unconventional design resembling an intergalactic flying saucer discus among an otherwise wedge-shaped supercar world.

It was very advanced for its time; the V8 used an innovative architecture that reduced weight and improved engine efficiency, such as using high-silicon aluminum block with Nikasil treatment to reduce friction; its oversquare cylinders had 95mm bores and 78.9 mm strokes for an engine that revved to 8,300rpm.

Value

Tony Lapine made an outstanding impactful contribution to Porsche in his 21-year tenure as Chief Designer. As such, he played a significant role in developing the 911 sports car during this period while overseeing key developments as Chief Designer. Furthermore, Lapine oversaw their 924, 944 and 964 models too; his influence can be seen clearly on their simple lines. Originally from Latvia but later moving to America as a refugee youth, Lapine held an impressive resume prior to joining Porsche: snowplough work at first and later GM Corvette before Opel and then Porsche came calling before finally being recruited by Porsche who then helped with further projects before leaving them for good!

Lapine made an indelible mark on Porsche with his work on the 928. One of the first front engined Porsche cars to feature a water-cooled V8, and first attempt at clean sheet design (after VW Beetle with Audi engine, 924 was created by Lapine in 1973). When released for sale in 1977 it proved a hit, even being named Europe’s Car of the Year that year; though never popular enough to unseat its predecessor the 911; nevertheless it remains beloved among enthusiasts today.

One reason behind the 928’s timeless design is Lapine’s innovative paint jobs; one on its prototype being pink with dotted lines in the shape of cuts of pork was even mocked at first, yet now stands as a collector’s item.

An inexpensive 928 is an ideal everyday supercar and an exceptional bargain at auction, yet finding one has become increasingly difficult as demand outpaces supply. Market tastes have also changed significantly over time; variants and year models like this 1982 928 S4 may become harder to locate due to picky buyers who require factory-correct cars like this example finished in champagne gold over black leather with flat disc wheels and an eye-catching two-tone seat center are becoming harder and harder to come by.

 

A 1979 Porsche 928 From Risky Business Goes Under the Hammer at Barrett-Jackson’s Houston Auction

Tom Cruise became an overnight superstar thanks to 1983 movie Risky Business and helped reinvigorate interest in Porsche 928s as performance grand tourers during this era. Now, one from that film can be purchased through Barrett-Jackson auction house.

Multiple 928s were featured in the film, with this particular one receiving significant screen time and also appearing in a documentary detailing filmmaker Lewis Johnsen’s search for it; furthermore, it served as Cruise’s vehicle for learning to operate a manual transmission transmission.

The Story

Barrett-Jackson’s inaugural Houston auction was an outstanding success thanks to strong prices for collectible vehicles combined with record turnout, setting multiple world auction records. Rising demand for American-made Resto-Mods, quality customs and cars with celebrity provenance helped push total sales beyond $37.5 million.

Perhaps the centerpiece of the auction was a 1979 Porsche 928 that featured in 1983’s Risky Business filming and helped launch Tom Cruise’s career. Although not part of Lake Michigan, this particular Porsche was used by Cruise to learn manual transmission driving; originally painted white but later resprayed gold for filming; spent 10 years in California following filming before heading back home where it has since been stored in climate controlled storage prior to being auctioned off this week.

Risky Business was instrumental in making the Porsche 928 famous to younger viewers and likely accounts for much of its subsequent popularity. The car itself was an engineering marvel at the time, offering front-wheel drive and an aerodynamic body designed for sporty looks; though not as fast as a 911 of that era. Still, its fame never reached as great levels as its iconic German competitor had.

Notably, this particular 928 was not constructed at the Gold Coast factory but instead shipped from California to a US distributor before being transferred to Los Angeles’ US Production Facility where it would receive its paint job and necessary modifications for use in a movie.

Although painted gold for use in the movie, this particular 928 was actually manufactured wearing green paint from factory. Barrett-Jackson sale marked its public debut for public purchase and collectors can look forward to an investment piece over time.

At this auction, two movie-inspired Motoclub SparkNFTs also found new owners: the 1959 Cadillac “Ghostbusters Ectomobile” Re-Creation NFT sold for $8,000; while a 1994 Toyota Supra from Fast & Furious franchise NFT brought $6,000. Consignments are open now for the 2022 Scottsdale Auction; for more information click here.

The Car

The Porsche 928 was one of the fastest cars when it first hit the market, serving as a successor to the iconic 911 with its shark-nosed front end and V8 engine that produced 222 horsepower – it could reach 60mph in less than 7 seconds, making it an excellent way to move through traffic efficiently.

But it’s more than speed that makes this car special; its story is equally captivating. This particular model was featured prominently in the movie Risky Business as Tom Cruise played Joel Goodson while being pursued by Guido the killer pimp; during their chase scene it ended up in Lake Michigan after its pier collapsed during filming; according to auction house research there were multiple 928s used during production but this particular 928 saw most screen time and is most recognized among fans of Risky Business as it also served as the car in which Cruise learned manual transmission driving skills from instructor Paul Bristow himself!

This 1979 Porsche 928 originally started life white before it was transformed into the gold model used in the film. It features a 4.5-liter naturally aspirated V8, coupled with five-speed manual transmission. Furthermore, its 17″ “Phone Dial” wheels and its golden interior make this car highly sought-after; even without its connection to such an iconic film.

Notably, however, is that this rare and expensive model car has only ever been built in about 20,000 copies and thus makes for one of the most valuable examples available today. Additionally, this unique piece may never find a buyer if sold to just any random collector; more likely will it become desirable among fans of both its film feature as well as actor who drove it.

That’s likely a positive development for Porsche fans, since it will ensure the car remains in the hands of people who understand its history and significance – thus keeping its popularity alive in its own right.

The Bid

Auctions are typically seen as business events where car dealers buy and sell trade-in vehicles; but sometimes an automobile with celebrity provenance catches the attention of potential buyers, sparking bidding wars. Such was the case for this 1979 Porsche 928 from Risky Business which recently went under the hammer at Barrett-Jackson’s inaugural Houston auction where no reserve sales reached over $37.5 million overall sales with this famous vehicle as its star attraction.

Paul Brickman’s 1983 movie included multiple 928s during production, but this particular car became its star player, receiving both screen time and seat time in every scene of filming. Lewis Johnsen made a documentary about it while movie producer Jon Avnet used this exact car to teach Tom Cruise how to drive manual transmission! According to its sale listing, Jon Avnet himself taught Cruise how to drive manual transmission himself using this same 928.

Although no longer manufactured, Porsche 928s remain immensely popular collector cars. Hagerty’s Price Guide currently lists an unmodified, factory color 1979 condition 1 concours example as driving into lawn of top concours events at PS30,600; so this auction result was quite an astonishing jump from that figure and shows clearly its star power.

Porsche introduced the 928 as a replacement to their iconic 911 in 1982, boasting its front-engined, rear-wheel-drive design for greater comfort and performance than its more celebrated predecessor. Unfortunately, production ended in 1995 despite this; nevertheless, according to Auctioneers Association of America this auction set an all-time sales record for any 928 sold at any event.

No details have emerged as to who purchased this car or its price; however, we speculate that its buyer might not be typical Porsche 928 collector. These buyers tend to collect rare and unique cars with deep pockets; this car’s value has undoubtedly increased with its association with a popular film; we anticipate its continued presence among automotive auction world elite.

The Final Price

Barrett-Jackson’s inaugural Houston auction marked an historic price record for a 1979 Porsche 928 driven by Tom Cruise in Risky Business; setting a world record and setting a new standard in movie car valuation reaffirming their cultural significance.

In the film, Cruise’s fictional Porsche managed to escape an intense chase scene while carrying him. Though only fictional, its influence can still be felt decades later in movies like Days of Thunder and Mission Impossible.

As for the 928 itself, while initially unimpressive when introduced in 1978, its appearance in a movie made it an instant classic. Production ended in 1995 and while it never attained global appeal like its sibling the 911, the 928 established itself as an appropriate rival against Audi 5000 and BMW 5 Series luxury grand tourers.

Kevin Shows had come to Petersen in 2017 looking for his movie car and knew immediately when he saw an RB928, that this one was it – knowing immediately it would make for the perfect purchase! Unfortunately, when contacting them to learn more of its history he was denied permission due to policy.

Shows purchased the car not with the intent to make money but out of sheer passion for both its filmic content and car itself. He took it out to various shows, exhibited it at annual Porsche parade in Fountain Hills near his Scottsdale, Arizona home and even drove it down to Atlanta so it could be featured as part of a Hollywood-themed display at Porsche Cars North America headquarters.

Shows decided to sell his Porsche not for financial gain but in order to do something good for it and the result set an unprecedented benchmark price that may never be reached again until an equally iconic Porsche 928 makes an auction appearance and creates headlines of its own.

The Porsche 928

When the Porsche 928 made its debut in 1978, it quickly became a fan favourite due to its distinctive flying saucer design and pop-up headlights. Bridging the gap between grand touring and sports car capabilities with exceptional poise over highway speeds as well as mountain top speeds, its arrival was met with enthusiastic reception by consumers everywhere.

History

The Porsche 928 stands as a reminder of Porsche’s attempt at something different forty years ago. Although their plan never saw fruition, the 928 did give birth to the V8 engine and an innovative multi-link rear axle arrangement which has since become standard among 911s.

Motoring journalists were quick to recognize its revolutionary design upon its debut in 1978, awarding it European Car of the Year honours almost immediately. The early OB model boasted a 16-valve, 4.5-litre V8 producing 219bhp; its front suspension featured double wishbones with anti-roll bars; while its innovative rear set-up featured semi-trailing arm arrangement that reduced unwanted toe changes during cornering for greater control and reduced oversteer.

Over the following 18 years Porsche continued to improve and refine the 928. In 1979 a 2mm overbore increased power from 295hp to 315hp; subsequent updates featured electronic fuel injection and single plate clutch on manual cars.

Design

The 928 was developed during the early 1970s in an attempt to replace Porsche’s flagship 911 car. Unfortunately, production began during a time of great turmoil within Porsche with significant internal disputes among family members as new CEO Ernst Fuhrmann assumed control.

This car featured an all aluminium body, including front wings, bonnet and doors capable of withstanding collisions at up to 80 km/h (54.7 mph). Furthermore, its 2-seat layout allowed two additional small seats in its back for passenger seating.

Porsche invented and installed on this large GT car the Weissach axle rear suspension system to compensate for toe-out caused by braking forces, providing much more predictable handling feel compared to conventional semi-trailing arms and allowing drivers to apply more power without fear of losing control of the car.

This 1993 928 was finished in stunning red with white striping and featured a full wraparound light bar. Equipped with 17″ five-spoke cup design wheels and featuring wider rear track and flared wheel arches. Furthermore, it featured front and rear spoilers – one of the most eye-catching restomods I’ve come across recently.

Engine

The 928 engine underwent frequent revisions and upgrades during its 18 year production run, first featuring a four-barrel carburetor before switching over to Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection system.

Porsche engineers designed their early prototypes around large displacement motors such as 5.0 L V8s producing close to 300 horsepower. As fuel costs and supply concerns increased during the oil crisis of the 1970s, demand grew for development of smaller 180hp powerplants; however, company engineers objected strongly.

Over its development period, the 928’s engine underwent numerous enhancements. New camshafts and cylinder heads were introduced, along with aluminium crankcases featuring Nikasil cylinder treatments to reduce friction and save weight compared to cast-iron liners. Combustion chambers had 95mm bores with 78.9mm strokes to facilitate good torque distribution.

The clutch was upgraded from twin-plate to single-plate on the S4, brakes upgraded and suspension with its “Weissach Axle” arrangement minimised understeer. Wheel offset was unique to each car while alloy wheel sizes and styles varied frequently; owners also often fitted supercharger kits or turbo chargers as stock engines allowed significant power increases with little part failure; many also installed air ride systems which further decreased center of gravity and enhanced ride quality.

Performance

As one of the early large displacement front-wheel drive Porsches, the 928 has always been known for its lightning fast acceleration. Not only that; this car’s chassis, suspension and brakes have been constantly refined over the years for optimal straight line stability while still offering instant responsiveness.

The front-mounted, water-cooled V8 initially displaces 4.5 L and featured a single four-barrel carburetor; in 1980 this was upgraded with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection to increase output even further – up to 319 horsepower on US cars!

Take care to make sure all electrical systems, including the vacuum system that runs multiple mechanisms like door locks, are operating optimally. Inspect for signs of bodywork damage including uneven panel fits or paint depth. Minor rust issues should be expected with an older car, but body damage is the true danger here; any inconsistent body lines and seams could indicate previous accidents or misuse. Finally, search for well-kept interior with clean carpets, upholstery and dashboard.

Steering

As one of the first front-engine/rear-drive Porsches designed specifically to offer luxury GT car experience, the 928 was intended to herald a new era for Porsche after replacing its flagship 911 model. Though it never quite achieved this lofty goal, the 928 remains an engaging and versatile car capable of covering long journeys comfortably.

Not like modern cars with variable-ratio power steering systems, the 928 uses conventional hydraulics instead, making it feel solid at high speed but less responsive at lower speeds. Some owners have modified their cars with short shifter kits or red brake calipers in order to bring out its full potential.

One of the hallmarks of the 928 was its rear-mounted transmission, which provided for superior weight distribution and allowed it to handle corners with incredible grace. Thanks to one of its signature features – a double wishbone axle known as Weissach axle tailored specifically for it which helped avoid toe-out during mid-corner throttle lifts – one of its signature characteristics of this car was its rear-mounted transmission which gave better weight distribution while simultaneously improving handling characteristics and handling dynamics.

Interior

In 1977 Porsche fans were shocked by a revolutionary new model: the Porsche 928 was an eye-opener; an unexpected front-engine sports car with V8 power and spacious interior that defied expectations compared to its rear-drive counterpart, the 911. Both had limited seating capacity with no provision for children in their rear seats compared to each other.

The new Porsche 928 featured an innovative transmission, known as the Weissach axle. This system compensated for any toe-out caused by braking forces and made the car much simpler to drive at high speeds while providing enhanced all-round handling stability – especially thanks to double wishbone front suspensions and Pirelli P7 low profile tires which further added support to its stability.

Interior of the 928 was elegant and luxurious by today’s standards, featuring a sweeping center console and glovebox area which seamlessly blended into its cabin. Early cloth seats were replaced by attractive leather bucket seats while its backrest could fold for easier loading purposes.

Porsche introduced a special “Competition Group” option for North American 928 buyers that featured front and rear spoilers, 16″ flat disc wheels, sport seats, and Bilstein shock absorbers – only available from late 1980 to 1983 and not to be confused with later “S” models featuring more powerful 5.4 L 32 valve engines.

1982 Porsche 928

When first introduced, the Porsche 928 captured buyers with its sleek exterior and powerful, rear-wheel-drive V8 engine. Though intended to replace the Porsche 911 as the marque’s flagship sports car, sales of its predecessor still outpaced it by some distance; therefore the 928 never truly established itself; though its racing program did provide strong performances at Le Mans as well as podium finishes in 1000k races at Spa and Brands Hatch.

This 1982 Porsche 928 offers an excellent opportunity to see what all of the buzz is about. In excellent condition and having been treated well by its previous owners, its odometer reads approximately 73,800 miles which is not excessive given its age and mileage history.

A front-mounted, SOHC V8 with 237 horsepower and rear wheel drive are key elements to this car’s success. The layout puts the driver in an authoritative position, creating a natural, confident feel. Steering is precise yet comfortably weighted thanks to hydraulic-assisted rack and pinion steering with hydraulic assist; also noteworthy is an all aluminum, overhead cam four valve per cylinder engine which boasts an impressive power-to-weight ratio.

In Europe and North America, the 928 S was released for sale in 1980 (1983 respectively) equipped with a more powerful version of its 4.7-liter SOHC V8 that produced 221kW (296hp). These cars became known as S1 models in Europe while S2 models could be found here, each featuring different front/rear spoilers as well as sportier seating arrangements.

This car’s rare five-speed dogleg manual transmission adds even more excitement when driving it. Shifting long throws may take some practice, but once familiarity sets in you’ll quickly make quick work of the road with gearing that reaches 6,000 rpm redline engine allowing quick acceleration.

While the 928 may lack the spaciousness of its larger sibling 911, it still provided sufficient passenger room and could seat two in back comfortably. Unfortunately, however, adults had limited head and legroom available to them in this vehicle.

Clean lines and classic proportions have made this car truly timeless, making it one of the finest examples from 1977. It remains beautiful even today; looking perfect on any street today.

 

Buying a Used 1980 Porsche 928

The 928 was the first car from Porsche to provide serious competition in the US market, as well as being an innovative design with its front-engined V8 engine nestled into its chassis. A true Grand Tourer, four seats were provided with plenty of luggage space; its combination of powerful performance with spacious interior made this car exceptionally comfortable; no wonder its launch in 1978 saw it winning European Car of the Year against mainstream hatchbacks and sedans!

There’s something special about the way that the engine and transmission work in a 928 that sets it apart from every other car on the road. Its front-mounted engine/transaxle layout provides even weight distribution and excellent handling while simultaneously positioning its engine closer to the road for an extremely low center of gravity, giving drivers an exhilarating driving experience both on the road and track. The result? A supercar that’s a joy to drive both on the street and the track alike!

For smooth operation, the engine is controlled by a computer and fed with fuel through an electronic fuel injection system, providing consistent power delivery. Its 4.2-liter V8 boasts 294 brake horsepower that allows it to go from zero to 62mph in just 5.3 seconds – one of the fastest cars of its era! Additionally, its top speed of 165mph ranks it as one of the world’s fastest cars.

When purchasing a used 928, it’s essential to research its history and accident record carefully. Look out for any signs of body damage around the doors and rear quarters; also pay attention to paint depth and panel fit as these could provide clues as to the accident history of this vehicle. Likewise, consider how snug its door handles are; these should remain secure without moving up and down when opening/closing them.

Checking the steering wheel and instrument cluster should also be on your to-do list. A flat latch under the column enables you to easily adjust its height and angle in conjunction with your steering wheel, and loose or worn controls could indicate previous collision damage.

Though the 928 is an enjoyable car to drive, it may not be suitable for long distance journeys. Refueling stops could become costly over time and passengers won’t feel quite as agile when driving with heavier loads – for these reasons alone it would be wiser to opt for sports models if your journey includes many highway miles.

If you’re considering purchasing a 1980 Porsche 928, prioritize finding one with excellent maintenance history. Routine services performed by non-franchised specialists will keep your investment safe. Also try to steer clear of secondhand models modified specifically for track use as these usually sell at less than book value and do not attract serious buyers.

1979 Porsche 928

The 1979 Porsche 928 is one of those rare vehicles that provokes automotive enthusiasts to reconsider all of their preconceptions and conventional wisdom. A true sports car that seats four comfortably (although two can usually fit), offers practical yet expensive everyday motoring capabilities, and can cover great distances – not unlike some 911 purists might think! Although some purists might dismiss its qualities outright, by taking time to understand all that is on offer here it becomes evident just what an impressive machine this truly special car truly is.

The 928’s story begins when Stuttgart unveiled plans to replace its rear-engined 911 with a front-engined V8 powered GT car – intended to become Stuttgart’s flagship model and provide world-beating mile eating comfort combined with luxury sedan-esque handling and comfort – instead, Porsche customers loved the 911 so much that Stuttgart decided against replacing it; ultimately leading to the development of an attractive yet powerful grand tourer which still enjoys great popularity today.

It may not be perfect, but that doesn’t stop it being fast or enjoyable to drive. With its direct and communicative steering and comfortable seats – along with instrumentation that can be adjusted in conjunction with steering column adjustments – the Aston Martin V8 Vantage delivers on speed while offering thrills of driving every time it starts up and shifts up into second gear. The dash features thoughtful layout design; instrumentation has unique feature enabling drivers to customize it according to personal needs.

This 928 is highly sought after as it was featured in the film Risky Business and therefore has an incredible history – complete with original sales invoice and window sticker – in great condition and has been professionally maintained since being purchased.

The car was acquired by the producer of the movie and restored to match its on-screen appearance. Being unique among auto shows, this one-of-a-kind vehicle continues to draw crowds whenever displayed.

If you find a great one, owning one can be truly enjoyable. But remember: these cars can be costly to keep running smoothly! Additionally, regular maintenance must be performed to keep it looking its best.

When purchasing a 928, ensure to regularly monitor its oil level and consumption for issues. Cambelt replacement should occur according to factory-recommended intervals; additionally, complex electronics should be inspected periodically by an expert.

Service history and an extensive set of manuals should always be included with any exotic machine purchase, along with an extended warranty in case something goes wrong with it. Make sure to get a breakdown of each component and their replacement costs, plus secure an extra key before purchasing anything exotic.