Positioning:
The 928 GTS represented the pinnacle of Porsche's front-engine, rear-drive V8 grand tourer. It was positioned as a luxurious, high-performance coupe capable of rapid cross-continental travel, directly competing with cars like the Ferrari 412 and Aston Martin Virage.
Competitors:
Ferrari 412, Aston Martin Virage, Jaguar XJS, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class (R129), BMW 8 Series (E31).
Distinctive Elements:
Unique rear transaxle for optimal weight distribution, powerful V8 engine, sophisticated chassis and suspension, distinctive 'pop-up' headlights, luxurious interior appointments, and Porsche's renowned build quality.
Owner Profile:
Discerning enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and style, with an appreciation for automotive engineering and brand heritage.
Powertrain:
Engine, fuel system, ignition, cooling, exhaust, transmission, drivetrain (rear-wheel drive).
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear transaxle, adaptive damping if equipped), steering, brakes (ABS), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, lighting, instruments, gauges, power accessories (windows, seats, mirrors), HVAC controls, basic warning systems.
Body:
Body panels, doors, locks, windows, mirrors, wipers, fluid reservoirs (washer, coolant, brake), fuel filler.
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, airbags (driver-side only for 1994), ABS operation.
Operation:
Starting and stopping engine, gear selection, climate control operation, parking brake, dashboard controls, infotainment (radio/cassette).
Maintenance:
Checking fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid), tire pressure checks, bulb replacement, battery maintenance, wiper blade replacement.
Safety:
Seat belt usage, child seat installation considerations, emergency procedures (flat tire, jump starting).
Troubleshooting:
Understanding dashboard warning lights, basic diagnostic indicators.
Depth:
Focuses on owner-level operation and basic maintenance. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, or full repair instructions typical of a service manual.
Binding Type:
Perfect bound or saddle-stitched, depending on original production.
Print Quality:
High-quality, durable paper stock with clear text and diagrams. Typically printed in black and white with occasional color inserts for diagrams or illustrations.
Paper Type:
Durable, often coated or semi-gloss paper for longevity in a vehicle environment.
Organization:
Logically structured with an index for easy navigation to specific topics.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated V8
Displacement:
5.4 liters (5397 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 74.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
10.4:1
Valvetrain:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total)
Fuel System:
Bosch Motronic M2.7 engine management, multi-point fuel injection.
Horsepower:
306 PS (302 hp; 225 kW) at 5700 rpm
Torque:
485 Nm (358 lb-ft) at 4200 rpm
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with knock sensor control.
Type:
5-speed manual transaxle
Type:
Tiptronic automatic transaxle (also a 4-speed automatic available, but less common on GTS)
Drive Layout:
Rear-wheel drive with rear transaxle (engine front, gearbox rear).
Clutch:
Hydraulically operated single dry plate clutch (for manual).
Manual Final Drive:
3.700:1
Crash Test Data:
No specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for this era and model are readily available in modern databases. Porsche vehicles of this period were built to high structural integrity standards.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia reel seat belts with pretensioners for front occupants, three-point belts for rear.
Construction:
Reinforced safety cell, deformable crumple zones.
ABS:
Bosch ABS II (Anti-lock Braking System)
Lighting:
Halogen headlamps (pop-up), front and rear fog lamps.
Audio System:
Premium sound system, often featuring Clarion or Blaupunkt head units with cassette player and AM/FM radio. CD changer was an optional accessory.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with manual override and integrated refrigerant system (R12 initially, later R134a). Heated rear window, heated mirrors.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system.
Connectivity Features:
None in the modern sense (no Bluetooth, USB, or integrated navigation). Basic telecommunications connectivity was not a feature.
Headlights:
Pop-up aerodynamic halogen headlights with integrated washer jets and wipers.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. Porsche recommended synthetic oil.
Major Service Interval:
Approximately 30,000 miles (e.g., timing belt, spark plugs, fluids, filters).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH rated synthetic engine oil, SAE 0W-40 or 5W-40 recommended by Porsche.
Engine Oil Capacity:
9.5 liters (10.0 US quarts) with filter
Coolant Type:
Porsche-approved antifreeze mixture (e.g., G12 or equivalent with correct ethylene glycol and distilled water ratio).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 brake fluid (e.g., Ate Typ 200 or similar).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 synthetic gear oil, SAE 75W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III automatic transmission fluid.
Power Steering Fluid:
Porsche-approved power steering fluid (typically ATF compatible).
Common Problems:
Coolant hoses degradation leading to leaks, timing belt failure (critical maintenance item), electrical gremlins (especially wiring insulation), window regulator issues, ABS sensor failures, interior material wear, 'sticky' dashboard components.
Timing Belt:
OEM Porsche Part Number may vary, but commonly associated with 928.105.201.06 or similar, check specific model year and VIN for accuracy.
Oil Filter:
OEM Porsche Part Number 999.107.210.00 or compatible Mann filter (e.g., Mann-Filter W 920/20).
Heritage:
Porsche AG, a renowned German automotive manufacturer, has a long history of producing high-performance sports cars, starting with the Porsche 356 and famously the Porsche 911. The 928 was conceived as a flagship luxury GT, an alternative to the rear-engined 911, showcasing innovative engineering and a departure from traditional Porsche design.
Evolution Timeline:
Introduced in 1978, the 928 underwent several significant updates. The 1992-1995 'GTS' (Gran Turismo Sport) model was the final and most potent iteration. It featured a larger 5.4L V8 engine, revised aerodynamics including integrated spoilers, wider front and rear fenders, a revised rear valance, and improved suspension and brake systems. The GTS was the most refined and powerful version of the 928.
Production Years:
1978-1995
Gts Production Years:
1992-1995
Gts Production Volume:
Approximately 7731 units worldwide.
Assembly Location:
Stuttgart, Germany
Automotive Press Awards:
While specific 'awards' for the 1994 GTS might not be distinct, the 928 series was consistently praised by automotive press for its engineering, performance, and luxury touring capabilities throughout its lifespan. It was often featured in 'best of' lists for grand tourers and performance cars of its era.
Car And Driver Recognition:
Car and Driver often included the 928 in their '10Best' lists in earlier years, highlighting its dynamic prowess and comfort.