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Porsche 928 (1977-95)

Production Total: 61,056
Recorded in UK 2024
928 Manual Licensed=97 SORN=117
928 Auto Licensed=13 SORN=42
928 GT Licensed=67 SORN 79
928 GTS Licensed= 23 SORN=40
928 GTS Auto Licensed=46 SORN=59
928 S Manual Licensed=76 SORN=161
928 S Auto Licensed=165 SORN=397
928 S Series 4 Licensed=25 SORN=61
928 S Series 4 Auto Licensed=244 SORN=388

Porsche 928 (1977-95)

Common faults with the Porsche 928 include:

- **Worn Suspension Bushings**: Can lead to wobbly handling.
- **Automatic Transmission Issues**: Unusual transmission behavior may occur.
- **Interior Noises**: Rattles and squeaks are common in classic Porsches.
- **Intake Air Leaks and Erratic Idle**: Vacuum faults and sensor failures can cause these issues.
- **Power Steering Pipe Leak**: This can lead to fluid loss and steering problems.
- **Inner Sill Corrosion**: Affects the structural integrity of the vehicle.
- **Fuel and Brake Pipe Corrosion**: Can lead to leaks and braking issues.
- **Engine Thrust Bearing Failure**: In automatic transmission equipped cars, this part can fail due to excessive pressure from the driveshaft.

These are some of the issues reported by Porsche 928 owners and specialists.
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Generations
There were **two generations** of the Porsche 928 produced. The first generation lasted from **1977 to 1991**, and the second generation, also known as the **Type 928 GTS**, was from **1992 to 1995**.
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Body Style/Variants
The Porsche 928 was sold in various configurations throughout its production. Here are the main versions:

- **Base model**: The original 928 model.
- **S variant**: Introduced as an upgraded version.
- **S4**: A later update to the S variant with styling and mechanical changes.
- **Club Sport (CS)**: A more performance-oriented version.
- **GT**: Replaced the CS/SE, with further enhancements.
- **GTS**: The final and most advanced version of the 928.

Each version brought different features and improvements over its predecessors¹.
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Trim Levels
The Porsche 928, produced from 1977 to 1995, had several trim levels over its lifespan. Here are the main ones:

1. **Porsche 928 (1978-1982)**: The original model, featuring a 4.5-litre V8 engine.
2. **Porsche 928 S (1980-1986)**: Introduced with a 4.7-litre V8 engine, offering more power and additional features.
3. **Porsche 928 S4 (1987-1991)**: Came with a 5.0-litre V8 engine and significant design updates, including a new rear wing.
4. **Porsche 928 GT (1989-1991)**: A sportier version of the S4 with a manual transmission and performance enhancements.
5. **Porsche 928 GTS (1992-1995)**: The final and most powerful version, featuring a 5.4-litre V8 engine and various luxury upgrades.

Each trim level brought improvements in performance, design, and technology, making the 928 a unique and evolving model throughout its production years.

There were several special editions of the Porsche 928:

1. **Porsche 928 Weissach Edition (1981)**: This edition was named after Porsche's Weissach Development Center and was primarily for the U.S. market. Around 200 units were produced³.
2. **Porsche 928 50th Jubilee Edition (1982)**: Created to celebrate Porsche's 50th anniversary, this edition featured unique paint and interior options. Approximately 140 units were built².
3. **Porsche 928 S4 Club Sport (1988)**: A lighter, more performance-focused version of the S4, with only 17 units produced³.
4. **Porsche 928 S4 Sport Equipment (1988)**: Known as the SE in the UK, this edition had similar specifications to the Club Sport but included additional comfort features. Only 42 units were made².
5. **Porsche 928 GTS (1992-1995)**: While not a special edition in the traditional sense, the GTS was the final and most advanced version of the 928, featuring a 5.4-litre V8 engine¹.

These special editions often included unique features, colours, and performance enhancements, making them highly sought after by collectors.
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Engines
The Porsche 928 featured several different engines throughout its production:

- **4.5 L V8**: The original engine used in the base model.
- **4.7 L V8**: Introduced with the 928S, increasing power to 300 bhp.
- **5.0 L V8**: A 32-valve engine used in later models, including the S4 and GT.
- **5.4 L V8**: Used in the final GTS model.

These engines were designed to offer a balance of power and smoothness, contributing to the 928's grand touring capabilities.
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Performance
The Porsche 928, produced from 1978 to 1995, was designed to combine the power and handling of a sports car with the comfort and refinement of a luxury sedan. Here are some key performance details:

- **Engine**: The 928 featured a front-mounted, water-cooled V8 engine. Early models had a 4.5L engine producing 219 hp (163 kW) for the North American market and 237 hp (176 kW) in other markets³.
- **Top Speed**: The 1983 Porsche 928 S was the fastest car sold in North America at the time, with a top speed of 146 mph (235 km/h)³.
- **Weight Distribution**: The 928 utilized a transaxle to achieve a 50/50 front/rear weight distribution, aiding in balance and handling³.
- **Later Models**: The 928 S4, introduced in 1987, had a 5.0L engine producing 320 hp (235 kW) and could reach a top speed of 168 mph (270 km/h)⁴. The 928 GTS, produced from 1992 to 1995, had a 5.4L engine producing 350 hp (257 kW) and could reach a top speed of 171 mph (275 km/h)⁵.

Overall, the Porsche 928 was known for its smooth and powerful performance, making it a unique and enjoyable driving experience.
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Spares
You can find spare parts for a Porsche 928 in the UK and Ireland from various suppliers. Here are some options:

- **Heritage Parts Centre**: Offers a wide range of parts and accessories, including project bundles.
- **Eurospares**: Provides an extensive catalogue of parts from 1978 to 1995, including complete engines and service parts.
- **Porsche Genuine Parts Finder**: Use this tool to find genuine Porsche parts.
- **Tech 9**: Claims to be the UK's No.1 spare parts store for Porsche 928.

These suppliers offer both online shopping and delivery options.
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Specialists
**NORTHERN IRELAND PORSCHE MECHANICAL SERVICES**
One of the leading Porsche mechanic specialists in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, is **McMillan Specialist Cars**. They are renowned for their expertise in servicing and maintaining Porsche vehicles, along with other high-end brands. Here are some details:

- **McMillan Specialist Cars**
- **Location**: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4NN, Northern Ireland
- **Services**: General repairs, servicing, MOT preparation, rally and race preparation, and more.
- **Contact**: 028 9335 4911
- **Website**: [McMillan Specialist Cars](https://mcmillanspecialistcars.com/)

You can also consider the **Porsche Centre Belfast**. Here are the details:

- **Porsche Centre Belfast**
- **Location**: 90 Sydenham Road, Belfast BT3 9DJ, Northern Ireland
- **Services**: New and pre-owned Porsche cars, servicing, repairs, and parts.
- **Contact**: 028 9038 9999
- **Website**: [Porsche Centre Belfast](https://www.agnewcars.com/porsche/)

Porsche specialists in and around County Armagh and nearby areas:

1. **Hollybrook Sports Cars**
- **Location**: 21 Aghnadarragh Road, Crumlin, BT29 4QQ, Northern Ireland
- **Services**: Specialises in the sale and service of used sports, performance, classic, and collectible cars.
- **Contact**: 028 9445 9446
- **Website**: [Hollybrook Sports Cars](https://www.hollybrooksportscars.com/)

2. **Porsche Specialist Services Ltd**
- **Location**: 2269, Northern Ireland
- **Services**: Comprehensive servicing and repairs for all Porsche models.
- **Website**: [Porsche Specialist Services Ltd](https://www.porschexperts.com/ServiceCentre/2269/Porsche%20Specialist%20Services%20Ltd)

3. **Specialist Cars Ireland**
- **Location**: Serving customers nationwide, including County Armagh.
- **Services**: Independent Porsche service centre with extensive experience in road, race, and track-prepared Porsches.
- **Website**: [Specialist Cars Ireland](https://www.specialistcarsireland.ie/)

Porsche specialists in County Down, Northern Ireland:

1. **Porsche Centre Belfast**
- **Location**: 90 Sydenham Road, Belfast BT3 9DJ
- **Services**: New and pre-owned Porsche cars, servicing, repairs, and parts.
- **Contact**: 028 9038 9999
- **Website**: [Porsche Centre Belfast](https://www.agnewcars.com/porsche/)²

2. **McMillan Specialist Cars**
- **Location**: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4NN
- **Services**: General repairs, servicing, MOT preparation, rally and race preparation, and more.
- **Contact**: 028 9335 4911
- **Website**: [McMillan Specialist Cars](https://mcmillanspecialistcars.com/)

3. **Specialist Cars Ireland**
- **Location**: Serving customers nationwide, including County Down.
- **Services**: Independent Porsche service centre with extensive experience in road, race, and track-prepared Porsches.
- **Website**: [Specialist Cars Ireland](https://www.specialistcarsireland.ie/)

Porsche specialists in and around County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:

1. **Specialist Cars Ireland**
- **Location**: Serving customers nationwide, including County Fermanagh.
- **Services**: Independent Porsche service centre with extensive experience in road, race, and track-prepared Porsches.
- **Website**: [Specialist Cars Ireland](https://www.specialistcarsireland.ie/)

2. **Porsche Centre Belfast**
- **Location**: 90 Sydenham Road, Belfast BT3 9DJ
- **Services**: New and pre-owned Porsche cars, servicing, repairs, and parts.
- **Contact**: 028 9038 9999
- **Website**: [Porsche Centre Belfast](https://www.agnewcars.com/porsche/)²

3. **McMillan Specialist Cars**
- **Location**: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4NN
- **Services**: General repairs, servicing, MOT preparation, rally and race preparation, and more.
- **Contact**: 028 9335 4911
- **Website**: [McMillan Specialist Cars](https://mcmillanspecialistcars.com/)¹

Porsche specialists in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:

1. **Approved Garages**
- **Location**: Various locations in Londonderry
- **Services**: Servicing, repairs, and MOT for Porsche vehicles.
- **Website**: [Approved Garages](https://www.approvedgarages.co.uk/mot-servicing-and-repairs/car-brands/porsche/londonderry/)¹

2. **ClickMechanic**
- **Location**: Londonderry
- **Services**: Mobile mechanics offering repairs and servicing for Porsche vehicles.
- **Website**: [ClickMechanic](https://www.clickmechanic.com/locations/londonderry/porsche)³

3. **McMillan Specialist Cars**
- **Location**: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4NN
- **Services**: General repairs, servicing, MOT preparation, rally and race preparation, and more.
- **Contact**: 028 9335 4911
- **Website**: [McMillan Specialist Cars](https://mcmillanspecialistcars.com/)²

Porsche specialists in and around County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:

1. **Specialist Cars Ireland**
- **Location**: Serving customers nationwide, including County Tyrone.
- **Services**: Independent Porsche service centre with extensive experience in road, race, and track-prepared Porsches.
- **Website**: [Specialist Cars Ireland](https://www.specialistcarsireland.ie/)

2. **Porsche Centre Belfast**
- **Location**: 90 Sydenham Road, Belfast BT3 9DJ
- **Services**: New and pre-owned Porsche cars, servicing, repairs, and parts.
- **Contact**: 028 9038 9999
- **Website**: [Porsche Centre Belfast](https://www.agnewcars.com/porsche/)³

3. **McMillan Specialist Cars**
- **Location**: Unit 10, Plasketts Close, Kilbegs Road, Antrim, County Antrim, BT41 4NN
- **Services**: General repairs, servicing, MOT preparation, rally and race preparation, and more.
- **Contact**: 028 9335 4911
- **Website**: [McMillan Specialist Cars](https://mcmillanspecialistcars.com/)¹
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Racing
The Porsche 928 did see some racing action, although it wasn't as prominent on the racing scene as some other Porsche models. Here are a few notable instances:

1. **Le Mans 24 Hours**: A 1982 Porsche 928 S made history by participating in the 1983 and 1984 Le Mans 24 Hours race. It remains the only 928 to have competed in this prestigious event.
2. **European Touring Car Championship**: The 928 S was used in a few races, but it didn't meet the production requirements to be a regular contender in the championship.
3. **Snetterton 24-Hour Race**: The 928 also participated in a 24-hour race for amateurs at the Snetterton race track in England.

While the 928 wasn't a dominant force in racing, these events highlight its versatility and performance capabilities.

In addition to the Le Mans 24 Hours and the European Touring Car Championship, the Porsche 928 participated in several other racing events:

1. **Silver State Classic**: This open road rally in Nevada saw the 928 competing in high-speed classes. The event involves maintaining an average speed over a long highway course².
2. **Bonneville 100**: Another open road race where the 928 showcased its capabilities. The car was modified to handle the high speeds required for this event².
3. **Various Club and Amateur Races**: The 928 was also popular in club racing and amateur events, where enthusiasts could modify and race their cars in a more relaxed setting¹.

These events highlight the versatility and performance potential of the 928, making it a favourite among racing enthusiasts.

For the Bonneville 100, the Porsche 928 underwent several modifications to handle the high-speed demands of the event. Here are some key changes:

1. **Engine Upgrades**: Enhancements included freer-flowing headers, X-Pipe exhaust systems, and aftermarket air intakes to improve airflow and increase horsepower.
2. **Suspension Modifications**: The car was equipped with a complete Hypercoil kit, featuring 1200 lb front and 1000 lb rear springs, along with custom sway bars and adjustable drop links.
3. **Clutch and Flywheel**: A GT1 Twin Disc Clutch and an aluminum flywheel were installed to handle the increased power and provide better performance.
4. **Wheels and Tires**: Custom steel wheels with Goodyear tires were used to ensure stability and grip at high speeds.

These modifications helped the 928 perform optimally in the demanding conditions of the Bonneville 100.

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