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.