Positioning:
High-performance luxury grand tourer
Competitors:
Ferrari 400 GT, Aston Martin V8 Vantage, Maserati Quattroporte
Design Philosophy:
Front-engine, rear-drive V8 coupe with innovative transaxle design
Engineering Emphasis:
Performance, luxury, and advanced technology for its era
Primary Focus:
Electrical System Troubleshooting
Secondary Focus:
Wiring Diagrams, Component Locations, Diagnostic Procedures
Estimated Page Count:
Variable (specific to publication, often 100-300 pages for comprehensive electrical manuals)
Type:
Workshop Manual Supplement / Technical Information Bulletin
Format:
Likely printed or digital (PDF) - based on description
Power Distribution:
Fuse box layouts, relay assignments, main power feeds
Ignition System:
Coil, distributor (if applicable to the specific year/model), ignition control module
Fuel System Controls:
Fuel pump relays, injection system wiring, ECU signals related to fuel delivery
Lighting System:
Headlights, taillights, interior lights, fog lights, turn signals
Instrumentation And Gauges:
Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights
HVAC Controls:
Climate control module, blower motor, fan speed resistors, temperature actuators
Power Accessories:
Power windows, power locks, power seats, sunroof (if equipped)
Wiper And Washer System:
Wiper motor, washer pump, control switches
Audio System Wiring:
Radio, speakers, amplifier (if applicable)
Anti Lock Braking System ABS:
ABS control module, wheel speed sensors, hydraulic pump/modulator wiring
Cruise Control System:
Control module, actuators, switches
Engine Control Unit ECU Wiring:
Sensor inputs, actuator outputs, communication bus wiring
Troubleshooting Methodology:
Systematic diagnostic approach based on symptoms
Component Testing:
Resistance checks, voltage measurements, continuity tests
Wiring Harness Inspection:
Locating breaks, short circuits, corrosion
Relay And Fuse Testing:
Swapping, resistance checks
Diagnostic Connector Access:
Location and usage of diagnostic ports
Fault Code Interpretation:
Understanding diagnostic trouble codes (if applicable to the era)
Component Replacement Guidance:
Specific steps for electrical component replacement
Depth:
Advanced Diagnostics and Troubleshooting
Audience:
Professional Technicians and Knowledgeable DIYers
Detail Level:
Detailed schematic views, component identification, wire colors, connector pinouts
Engine Family:
Porsche V8 (M44/xx)
Displacement:
4.5L (early models), 4.7L (later models), 5.0L (later models)
Configuration:
V8, 90-degree angle
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank, 2 valves per cylinder
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 219-326 hp depending on year and model variant
Torque Range:
Approx. 278-317 lb-ft depending on year and model variant
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic fuel injection
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline
Length:
Approx. 179.9 inches (4570 mm) for early models, increasing slightly with updates
Width:
Approx. 70.9 inches (1800 mm)
Height:
Approx. 51.3 inches (1303 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3,450 - 3,700 lbs (1565 - 1678 kg) depending on transmission and equipment
Wheelbase:
Approx. 98.4 inches (2500 mm)
NHTSA Rating General:
No direct NHTSA ratings available for many classic Porsches due to era of production; relied on internal testing and European standards.
ABS:
Standard on later models, optional on earlier ones
Traction Control:
Available on later models (ASR - Automatic Slip Regulation)
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag introduced in later model years (typically 1990+)
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Body Structure:
Designed for structural rigidity and crash energy absorption
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 5,000 - 7,500 miles or annually (refer to specific model year manual)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial service, often recommended every 30,000 - 60,000 miles or 4-5 years due to interference engine design
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH, ACEA A2/A3, viscosity typically 5W-40 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for precise spec)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 - 10.5 quarts (9.0 - 10.0 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Porsche approved G48 or equivalent (e.g., Pentofrost Plus), typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)
Electrical System Common Problems:
Degradation of wiring insulation (especially around exhaust manifolds), brittle connectors, failing relays, ABS sensor failures, fuel pump relay issues
Mechanical Common Problems:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced), head gasket leaks, coolant hose failures, intake manifold leaks, worn torque tube bearings
Heritage Focus:
Performance, racing pedigree, and engineering excellence
Introduction Year:
1977 (introduced for the 1978 model year)
Production End Year:
1995
Major Updates:
Introduction of 4.7L engine, improved aerodynamics, revised interior, updated ABS and ASR systems, 5.0L engine (928 GTS)
Manufacturing Location:
Stuttgart, Germany
Total Production Units:
Approximately 61,000 units worldwide