The Porsche 928, introduced in the late 1970s, was a groundbreaking grand tourer that marked a significant departure from Porsche’s traditional lineup of rear-engined sports cars. The model was lauded for its bold design, front-engine layout, and powerful V8 engine, the 928 was a technological marvel of its time. CLcompany is delighted to feature the facts about the 1970s Classic Porsche 928.
Flashback
The story of the Porsche 928 begins in the early 1970s when Porsche sought to diversify its lineup beyond the 911. The 928 was conceived as a luxury sports car that could bridge the gap between high-performance vehicles and grand touring coupes. Porsche’s engineers and designers envisioned a car that could deliver the thrill of driving a Porsche while providing the comfort and practicality expected from a luxury car.
In 1977, the Porsche 928 was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show to critical acclaim. Unlike the 911, which had its engine mounted in the rear, the 928 featured a front-mounted, water-cooled V8 engine, a first for the brand. This marked a departure from Porsche’s traditional design philosophy but demonstrated the company’s willingness to innovate. The 928 combined cutting-edge technology with advanced aerodynamics, delivering a car that was as fast as it was stylish. It was even awarded the European Car of the Year in 1978, a rare achievement for a sports car.
Years in Production – 1977 to 1995
The Design
The Porsche 928’s design was a sleek fusion of aerodynamic efficiency and futuristic aesthetics. Its long, low-slung body featured a distinctive, rounded shape with smooth curves and pop-up headlights, giving it a look that was both aggressive and elegant. The car’s structure utilized aluminum in various components, including the doors, hood, and front fenders, to reduce weight without sacrificing strength or safety. The 928’s wide stance and balanced proportions not only enhanced its visual appeal but also improved handling and stability at high speeds.
Inside, the Porsche 928 was a showcase of luxury and comfort. The cockpit featured leather upholstery, ergonomic controls, and advanced instrumentation for its time, including a unique “pod” design for the instrument cluster that moved with the adjustable steering wheel. The seats were designed for long-distance comfort, underscoring the car’s role as a grand tourer. Rear seats, while compact, folded down to increase cargo space, making the 928 surprisingly practical for a sports car. Porsche’s attention to detail in both the exterior and interior design made the 928 a true blend of performance and luxury. The Porsche 928 remains a testament to Porsche’s ability to innovate while maintaining its commitment to high-performance engineering, blending the spirit of a sports car with the elegance of a luxury grand tourer.
Top Specifications of Porsche 928
- Displacement – 4.5L – 5.4L (depending on model year)
- Power – 240 hp – 350 hp
- Transmission – 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Top speed – 143 mph – 171 mph (230 km/h – 275 km/h)
- Kerb weight – Approximately 1,450 kg – 1,600 kg
- Wheelbase – 98.4 inches (250 cm)
Interesting Facts
1. The Porsche 928 was initially intended to replace the 911, but the 911’s popularity ensured both models coexisted for many years.
2. The 928 was one of the first cars to feature a “Weissach axle,” a passive rear-wheel steering system that improved stability during cornering.
3. The Porsche 928 played a starring role in the 1983 movie Risky Business, where Tom Cruise famously drove the car in several memorable scenes.
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