Positioning:
Luxury Grand Tourer (GT), positioned as a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive alternative to rear-engined Porsche models.
Competitors:
Ferrari 412, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Jaguar XJ-S, Mercedes-Benz SEC models.
Design:
Timeless Giugiaro-influenced styling, aerodynamic profile, 'transaxle' layout for balanced weight distribution.
Performance Orientation:
Powerful V8 engine, comfortable for long-distance touring, advanced (for its time) technology.
Audience:
Affluent buyers seeking a sophisticated, high-performance, and comfortable sports car for touring.
Engine System:
Overview, lubrication, cooling, fuel system basics, ignition system basics
Transmission System:
Automatic transmission operation, fluid level checks
Braking System:
ABS operation, parking brake
Electrical System:
Fuse box locations and identification, battery care, lighting system
Chassis And Body:
Doors, windows, seats, climate control, exterior lighting, security system basics
Wheels And Tires:
Tire pressure recommendations, wheel changing procedures
Comfort And Convenience:
HVAC system, power accessories, cruise control
Regular Maintenance:
Oil change intervals, fluid top-offs (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, washer fluid)
Checking Fluids:
Detailed instructions for checking all vehicle fluids
Tire Maintenance:
Recommended tire pressures, advice on tire wear
Lighting Operation:
Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, fog lights
Emergency Procedures:
Jump starting, tire changing, basic troubleshooting guidance
Depth:
Owner-level operation, maintenance, and basic care. Does NOT contain detailed repair procedures or diagnostic charts.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated V8
Displacement:
5.0 Liters (4973 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
97.0 mm x 84.0 mm
Valvetrain:
SOHC, 4 valves per cylinder (32 valves total)
Compression Ratio:
10.0:1
Horsepower:
310 PS (228 kW) @ 6000 rpm (Euro spec)
Torque:
450 Nm (332 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm (Euro spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic Fuel Injection
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (RON 95-98)
Capacity:
Approx. 11.0 Liters
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 8.0 Liters (with filter)
Type:
4-Speed Automatic (Tiptronic optional on later models, not standard on '87 Euro)
Transmission Controller:
Electronic control for smooth shifting
Transaxle Layout:
Rear transaxle design (engine front, gearbox rear) for optimal weight distribution.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent, check specific manual for exact spec)
Crash Test Data:
Limited data available for 1987 models; modern standards do not apply. Designed with occupant safety as a priority for its era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Suspension:
Self-leveling rear suspension (standard on S4) for consistent ride height and handling.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts, front and rear.
Airbags:
Not standard on 1987 models; introduced later.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Original cassette player with AM/FM radio, often with amplifier system. Features may include tone controls and balance/fader.
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control (HVAC) with integrated air conditioning.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Instrumentation:
Comprehensive analog gauges, including tachometer, speedometer, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and voltmeter.
Features:
No modern connectivity features (Bluetooth, USB, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto) present in the original configuration.
Oil Change:
Every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first (recommendation based on period norms, check manual for exact value).
Major Service:
Timing belt replacement recommended every 40,000-60,000 km or 5 years (crucial for V8 engine).
Engine Oil:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-50 API SF or SG (check manual for precise specification).
Coolant:
Porsche approved coolant (typically ethylene glycol based with corrosion inhibitors), 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent
Common Wear Items:
Fuel lines, cooling hoses, timing belts, valve stem seals, suspension bushings, door seals, window regulators.
Electrical Gremlins:
Common in older vehicles, can include issues with dashboard instruments, door locks, or alarm systems due to aging wiring and components.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump and injector issues can arise with age and mileage.
Heritage:
Porsche AG, known for performance sports cars, introduced the 928 as a departure from its traditional rear-engine layout.
Generation:
Third generation 928 (following '78-'86 and '86.5-88 models). S4 introduced in 1986 for the 1987 model year.
S4 Introduction:
The S4 variant represented a significant upgrade with a more powerful engine, improved aerodynamics, and updated interior/exterior styling.
Production Period:
1978-1995 (928 range), 1987-1991 (928 S4 specific)
Manufacturing Location:
Stuttgart, Germany
