Model Years Covered:
1977-1995
First Generation Introduction:
1977
Last Generation Introduction:
1995
Chassis Codes:
928, 928 S, 928 S2, 928 S3, 928 S4, 928 GT, 928 GTS
Initial Market Segment:
Grand Tourer (GT), positioned as a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive alternative to the 911, targeting the luxury sports car market.
Key Competitors:
Ferrari 400, Aston Martin V8, BMW 6 Series, Mercedes-Benz SEC Coupe.
Unique Selling Points:
V8 engine, transaxle layout for balanced weight distribution, luxurious interior, advanced (for its time) technology, comfortable ride.
Intended Buyers:
Affluent buyers seeking a high-performance, comfortable, and stylish grand tourer with Porsche engineering and build quality.
Powertrain:
Engine diagnostics, rebuild procedures, cooling system, fuel injection (CIS/L-Jetronic/Motronic), exhaust systems, engine management.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission service, clutch operation, torque converter, hydraulic systems.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear transaxle, independent suspension), steering system, braking system (ABS on later models).
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system, lighting, HVAC controls, power accessories, dashboard instruments, diagnostic systems.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, trim components, interior fittings, safety systems (airbags on later models), glass replacement.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tune-ups, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Major Repairs:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild.
Component Replacement:
Detailed instructions for replacing specific parts, including fuel injectors, alternators, starter motors, water pumps.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures covering fuel injection systems (CIS, L-Jetronic, Motronic), ignition timing, and electrical systems.
Rebuild Instructions:
Comprehensive engine and transmission rebuild instructions, including torque specifications, clearance measurements, and component assembly sequences.
Electrical Schematics:
Detailed wiring diagrams for all major electrical systems, aiding in diagnosis and repair of electrical faults.
Body Repair Guidance:
Information on bodywork, including panel alignment, rust repair, and corrosion protection, relevant to the model's construction.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8 (V8 M30, M44, M45, M60, M61)
Early Model Horsepower:
Approx. 240-250 hp (SAE Gross)
Later Model Horsepower:
Up to 326 hp (GTS)
Early Model Torque:
Approx. 245 lb-ft (SAE Gross)
Later Model Torque:
Approx. 315 lb-ft (GTS)
Early Injection:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) Continuous Injection System
Later Injection:
Bosch Motronic Electronic Fuel Injection and Ignition Control
Base Displacement:
4.5 Liters (4474 cc)
Later Displacement:
5.0 Liters (4907 cc) and 5.4 Liters (5347 cc)
Block Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Head Material:
Aluminum Alloy
Early Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transaxle
Automatic Transmission:
3-speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., 098, 099 for early models)
Transaxle Design:
Rear-mounted transaxle combining gearbox and differential for optimal weight distribution.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (check specific model year for exact spec)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check specific model year for exact spec)
Length:
Approx. 4655 mm (183.3 in) for early models, varying slightly with later models.
Width:
Approx. 1780 mm (70.1 in) for early models.
Height:
Approx. 1285 mm (50.6 in) for early models.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1550 kg (3417 lbs) for early models, increasing with options and engine size.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and year, generally around 2000-2150 kg.
Crash Test Information:
Original US crash test data available; later models incorporated passive safety features.
Anti-Lock Braking System:
Optional on some early models, standard on S4, GT, and GTS.
Airbag System:
Driver's side airbag introduced on S4 models (1987 onwards), optional passenger airbag later.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts front and rear.
Impact Safety:
Reinforced chassis, crumple zones, side impact protection beams.
Early Infotainment:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, often integrated into dashboard design.
Later Infotainment:
Upgraded audio systems, some models featured rudimentary navigation or trip computers.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on most models.
Automatic Climate Control:
Integrated HVAC system with manual or automatic climate control on later models.
Early Connectivity:
N/A (basic audio input).
Later Connectivity:
Limited, primarily focused on audio system inputs.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 7,500-10,000 miles or annually (refer to specific model year manual for precise interval).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial maintenance item. Interval varies by model and belt type, but generally around 30,000-60,000 miles or 4-5 years. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SJ or higher, SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 recommended (consult manual for specific ambient temperature ranges and approvals).
Coolant Specification:
Porsche approved coolant or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 (consult manual for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid:
Pentosin CHF 11S or equivalent (check specific model year for exact specification).
Fuel Delivery System:
Wear on fuel distributor seals in CIS systems, failing fuel pumps, clogged injectors.
Cooling System:
Leaking hoses, radiator deterioration, failing water pump, thermostat issues. Early models prone to overheating if not maintained.
Electrical Systems:
Degradation of wiring harness insulation (especially in high-heat areas), failing relays, dashboard instrument cluster issues.
Transaxle Shifting:
Clutch wear, worn shift linkage bushings, automatic transmission torque converter issues.
Importance Of Manual:
Crucial for understanding specific maintenance schedules and procedures due to significant evolution across model years.
Porsche Philosophy:
Porsche's reputation for engineering excellence, performance, and build quality.
Key Development Goals:
Create a comfortable, high-performance luxury coupe with a front-mounted engine to broaden Porsche's market appeal beyond the 911.
Major Updates:
Introduction of 4.7L V8 (928), 5.0L V8 (928 S/S2), 5.0L V8 with 4 valves per cylinder (928 S4), 5.4L V8 (928 GTS). Significant chassis and interior updates throughout its production run.
Production Period:
1977-1995
Manufacturing Location:
Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen, Germany
Total Production Numbers:
Approximately 61,000 units worldwide.
European Car Of The Year:
1978 European Car of the Year award, highlighting its innovative design and engineering.
Contemporary Reviews:
Praised for its performance, comfort, and handling by automotive journalists of its era.
European Certification:
Met all applicable European safety and emissions standards for its respective production years.
