Porsche 928 was not synonymous with risk-taking in the movie "Risky Business"; rather, it embodied elegance, comfort, and exceptional performance.
In the world of automotive history, the Porsche 928 stands out as a modern classic. Despite not achieving the iconic status of the 911, the 928 has earned its place due to several key factors.
First and foremost, the 928 was a ground-breaking design for Porsche. Unlike the 911, which evolved from earlier models, the 928 was the first Porsche designed entirely from scratch. Wolfgang Möbius, the man behind the exterior design, crafted a car with clean lines, a long nose, and a fastback roofline. This unique aesthetic has aged well, maintaining its sleekness even with minor refinements over its 18-year production run.
The 928 was also a pioneer in terms of innovative features. It boasted pop-up headlamps that stayed visible when retracted, a roomier 2+2 cabin with a rear bench that folded down to extend the trunk, and an instrument cluster that moved with the steering wheel for better visibility. These design elements contributed to a more modern and comfortable driving experience than the 911 of that era.
The 928 was a grand tourer that offered a blend of performance and comfort, a response to the 1970s oil crisis. It aimed for refinement without sacrificing driving enjoyment, setting it apart from other cars of its time.
Another distinguishing feature was the 928's engine placement and powertrain. It was Porsche's first production car to feature a front-mounted V8 engine, a departure from the 911's traditional rear-engine layout. This was both innovative and controversial but set the 928 apart technically and stylistically.
Despite being overshadowed by the 911 in popularity and cultural impact, the 928 is now gaining recognition among enthusiasts as a distinct Porsche with historical and mechanical significance deserving of classic status.
The 928 made an appearance in Tom Cruise's first headlining film, Risky Business, where a gold 1979 928 was used to outrun a competitor in a Cadillac Coupe Deville. This gold example of the 928 sold for $1.8 million in 2021.
In terms of performance, the most potent 928 engine was found in the GTS variant, which was sold between 1993 and 1995. This engine had a 5.4-liter displacement and made 345 hp. The 928 GTS variant could sprint from zero to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds and hit a top speed of 171 mph.
Today, 928 models can be found for relative bargains on auction platforms like Bring a Trailer, especially for project cars. In recent years, the prices of 928 models have been increasing, with a 1995 GTS variant with a five-speed manual selling for $232,000 earlier this spring.
The 928 helped clear the way for more luxurious models like the Panamera and Taycan that would follow in later decades. It mixed style and substance like few other vehicles of its era, making it a standout in the world of classic cars.
- The Porsche 928, though not achieving the iconic status of the 911, has become a collectible due to its unique design and innovative features, setting it apart as a modern classic that blends technology and cars lifestyle.
- In line with its pioneering status, 928 models, particularly the GTS variants with their powerful engines, are becoming sought-after collectibles, reflecting the growing recognition for this car as a significant part of Porsche's history.
