🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Porsche

Model:

928

Year:

1978

Market:

Euro

Chassis Code:

928

Engine Code:

M28.01

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Porsche 928 was introduced as a groundbreaking, high-performance grand tourer, positioning Porsche to compete in a more luxurious and modern segment, moving away from its traditional sports car image. It aimed to attract buyers seeking comfort, performance, and advanced technology.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with other luxury GT cars and performance coupes of the late 1970s and early 1980s, such as the BMW 6 Series, Mercedes-Benz SEC coupes, and Jaguar XJ-S, offering a unique transaxle layout and a front-engine V8 configuration.

Key Features:

Front-engine, rear-wheel drive V8 configuration, transaxle layout for optimal weight distribution, advanced (for its time) materials and design, luxurious interior, and exceptional long-distance touring capability.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

Engine, Transmission, Drivetrain, Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Electrical System, Climate Control, Bodywork, Interior, Instrumentation, Maintenance, Troubleshooting.

Page Count:

Estimated 150-250 pages (typical for this era and model).

Manual Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

German

Format:

Printed (Original)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Detailed explanations of the V8 engine, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery, ignition system, emission controls.

Transmission:

Operation and maintenance of the manual or automatic transmission, clutch (if applicable), driveshafts.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive system, differential operation and care.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components, operation of the transaxle layout.

Steering:

Power steering system, steering wheel operation.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, parking brake, anti-lock braking system (ABS) if equipped.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, fuses, relays, instrumentation, wiring diagrams (basic overview).

Climate Control:

Operation of heating and air conditioning systems.

Bodywork:

Door operation, hood and trunk latches, convertible top operation (if applicable), window operation.

Interior:

Seat adjustment, seatbelt operation, dashboard controls, interior lighting.

Instrumentation:

Explanation of all gauges and warning lights.

Maintenance:

Regular maintenance checks, oil changes, fluid top-offs, filter replacements, tire pressure checks, wiper blade replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Basic troubleshooting for common issues, understanding warning lights.

Operation:

Vehicle startup, driving techniques, parking, emergency procedures.

Tire Information:

Recommended tire pressures, wheel and tire size specifications.

Lighting Operation:

Operation of headlights, interior lights, and turn signals.

Wiper Washer Operation:

Operation and maintenance of the windshield wiper and washer system.

Fuse Replacement:

Location and identification of fuse boxes and individual fuses, basic fuse replacement guidance.

Technical Depth:

Designed for the owner; covers routine checks, fluid identification, basic maintenance, and operational guidance. Does not include in-depth repair procedures or complex diagnostics typically found in a workshop manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Printed, likely saddle-stitched or perfect bound.

Print Quality:

Original factory print quality, typically good clarity for text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

Original binding (likely stapled or glued spine).

Paper Type:

Standard newsprint or coated paper typical for owner's manuals of the era.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated V8

Displacement:

4.5 Liters (4474 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

94.1 mm x 80.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

8.5:1

Valvetrain:

SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) per bank, 2 valves per cylinder

Horsepower:

217 hp (162 kW) at 5500 rpm (Euro Spec)

Torque:

350 Nm (258 lb-ft) at 3600 rpm (Euro Spec)

Fuel System:

Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS - Continuous Injection System)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Super / 98 RON)

Cooling System:

Liquid-cooled, with thermostat and fan.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-Speed Manual Transaxle (Type 016)

Transmission Type:

3-Speed Automatic Transaxle (e.g., BorgWarner 35/BW 63 variant)

Transaxle Layout:

Combined engine and transmission unit at the rear, connected via a torque tube.

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate (Manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4680 mm (184.3 in)

Width:

1785 mm (70.3 in)

Height:

1280 mm (50.4 in)

Wheelbase:

2435 mm (95.9 in)

Front Track:

1500 mm (59.1 in)

Rear Track:

1480 mm (58.3 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1580 kg (3483 lbs) for manual transmission.

Gross Weight Rating:

Approximately 1980 kg (4365 lbs).

Fuel Capacity:

85 Liters (22.5 US gallons)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Ratings:

No standardized crash test ratings available for this era in the same way as modern vehicles. Porsche typically focused on robust structural integrity.

Active Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes, power-assisted steering, independent suspension for stable handling.

Passive Features:

Three-point seat belts, padded dashboard and steering wheel, impact-absorbing body structure, reinforced A-pillars.

Headlights:

Pop-up halogen headlights for improved aerodynamics when retracted.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment Features:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player. Speaker system tailored for the cabin. Limited by the era's technology.

Driver Assistance Features:

Power steering, four-wheel disc brakes. ABS was optional and not universally equipped on early models.

Connectivity Features:

None (modern definition). Primarily mechanical and electrical systems.

Lighting Technology:

Halogen headlights (pop-up), standard interior and exterior lighting systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Recommended every 5,000-7,500 km (3,000-5,000 miles) or annually, whichever comes first (check manual for exact specification).

Major Service Interval:

Timing belt replacement typically every 60,000-80,000 km (37,000-50,000 miles) or 4-5 years. This is a critical item.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG, viscosity typically 20W-50 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Check manual for precise Porsche specification (e.g., Porsche approved oils).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Porsche specifications should be followed.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 4.

Transmission Oil Type Manual:

Gear oil, e.g., API GL-4 or GL-5, viscosity 75W-90. Refer to manual for specific Porsche recommendation.

Transmission Oil Type Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent ATF fluid. Refer to manual for specific Porsche recommendation.

Power Steering Fluid:

Specific hydraulic fluid as per Porsche specification, often a Dexron type or dedicated Pentosin fluid.

Known Issues:

Timing belt tensioner issues, fuel distributor leaks (K-Jetronic), cooling system leaks (especially hoses and seals), electrical gremlins (wiring harness degradation), valve stem seals, intake manifold vacuum leaks.

Body Corrosion:

Potential for rust, particularly around wheel arches, sills, and battery tray areas, depending on climate and care.

Maintenance Tips:

Regularly check and replace aging rubber components (hoses, seals, bushings). Monitor K-Jetronic system for consistent fuel delivery. Ensure cooling system is meticulously maintained due to the V8 engine's heat output.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Porsche, a brand renowned for its sports car engineering, introduced the 928 as a bold departure, showcasing their capability in developing a sophisticated, high-performance luxury coupe.

Model Evolution:

The 1978 model year marked the debut of the Porsche 928. Subsequent years saw engine upgrades (displacement increase to 4.7L, introduction of 16 valves), transmission refinements, and aerodynamic improvements. The 928 was produced until 1995.

Production Years:

1978-1995

Manufacturing Location:

Stuttgart, Germany

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

The Porsche 928 was named the European Car of the Year in 1978, a significant achievement for a sports car and a testament to its innovative design and engineering.

Ratings:

Praised by automotive journalists for its performance, comfort, and technological advancements, though some found its GT nature less engaging than pure sports cars.