The Porsche 928 blends classic style with V8-powered performance. It’s best known for its front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and refined grand tourer comfort.
The Porsche 928 is a luxury GT coupe designed for comfortable weekend drives as well as day-to-day motoring. Launched in late 1977, it went on to be crowned Car of the Year in 1978 – the first sports car to receive the honour. Over its production run, which ended in 1995, the 928 evolved through many different versions, including the S, S2, S4, GT and GTS, each bringing more power and technology. Compared to rivals from Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz, the 928 stands out for its combination of performance and practicality. It can handle long motorway runs with ease and offers a well-appointed 2+2 cabin with advanced spec for its era. Key innovations, like integrated polyurethane bumpers and the rear ‘Weissach’ axle for confident handling, set it apart from the crowd.
Effortless motorway cruisingThroaty, all-aluminium V8 soundtrackAdvanced handling and comfort
High running and repair costsOil and fuel-thirstyAge-related maintenance needsWhile all 928s feature strong structural integrity, advanced disc brakes and anti-lock braking (ABS) became standard from S4 models onwards, improving stopping safety. However, it wasn't until the 1990s that airbags became optional, then standard, on the 928.
The 928 started with a 4.5-litre V8, growing progressively to 4.7, 5.0 and then 5.4-litre units in the GT and GTS models. Most cars are automatics, though manuals do exist and are especially collectable. Engine updates were consistent across model generations.
Period features included electric seat adjustment, air conditioning and a high-quality stereo system – luxuries in their day. The S4, GT and GTS models typically added more advanced electronic systems, though infotainment is basic by modern standards.
Real-world fuel economy for the Porsche 928 varies, generally sitting around 12-20mpg. Later models with larger engines tend to use more fuel. As a classic grand tourer, efficiency is not its main focus, so be prepared for higher running costs.
It’s crucial to verify the service history, look for coolant and oil leaks, check the timing belt interval, and examine the body for rust – especially the sills and underbody. Electrical gremlins and ageing trim are also common. Consider booking The AA Vehicle Inspection on your potential buy for peace of mind.
A well-maintained 928 can be reliable, but age-related wear means regular upkeep is necessary. Major repairs can be costly. Buying from an enthusiast or specialist with a clear service record is advised to avoid surprises.
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