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Porsche 928
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1978 - 1995 |
Country: |
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Engine: |
V8 |
Capacity: |
5397 cc |
Power: |
345 bhp |
Transmission: |
5 spd. man / 4 spd. auto |
Top Speed: |
171mph |
Number Built: |
n/a |
Collectability: |
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The 928 has had a great production run, from 1978-1995.
Even though the 1995 928 GTS didn't sell very well, and
was dropped from the Porsche line, the 928 is a proven
winner.
For 17 years, this Porsche headed the model line-up in
luxury and power. The 928 was a tourer; only offered as
a 2-door coupe with a big V8 engine.
The concept of the
928 originated in 1971. The model was first shown at the
Geneva Auto Show in March of 1977. By this time, the 928
was ready and running.
Production began in September of that year for the 1978
models. As it first came out, the 928 offered a 4.5 liter
90 degree V8 as its only powerplant.
You were given a
choice of a 5-speed manual transmission, or a 3-speed
auto. Power output was at 219 horsepower. The 928 had
its engine in the front, and the transmission at the rear.
Even though this concept was already shown on the 924,
the 928 was actually designed BEFORE the 924, therefore,
the 928 is really the first "front engine" Porsche.
The car was an extreme standout compared to other cars
of the time.
Technical innovations included an incredibly long timing
belt to drive the cams and all accessories, and pistons
running directly in the "Alusil" block.
The cylinder bores were etched to expose hard, wear
resistant silicon particles. The 928 had nearly perfect
weight distribution, thanks to a sophisticated multilink
rear suspension known as the "Weissach" layout.
This
employed a form of passive rear wheel steering, giving
the rear suspension toe-in on braking or deceleration
to combat trailing throttle oversteer, the first rear-steering
system ever offered to the public.
Porsche didn't use
aluminum very sparingly on the 928; the doors, hood,
and other large castings were composed of it.
Inside, you were treated to the most modern interior design
of any car on the road, with an adjustable instrument
pod, electronic comfort and convenience features, and
the highest grade materials. It was also one of the quietest
cars on the road, and it could still match the 911 in
performance. |