Porsche 928 5.0 S CAT V8 (288 Hp) Automatic

The Porsche 928 is a luxury grand tourer produced by Porsche from 1978 to 1995. Representing a significant departure from the traditional Porsche 911, the 928 boasted a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a V8 engine, a configuration Porsche hadn’t utilized in a production car since the 550 Spyder. The 928 was intended to be a replacement for the 911, but the 911 continued in production alongside it due to its enduring popularity. The 928 5.0 S CAT, produced from 1985 to 1994, represents a refinement of the original concept, offering increased performance and improved emissions control. It was primarily aimed at the North American and European markets, offering a sophisticated alternative to other grand touring cars like the BMW 6 Series and the Mercedes-Benz SL.

Porsche 928 5.0 S CAT: A Detailed Overview

The 928 5.0 S CAT marked a high point in the 928’s development. The “S” designation indicated a higher performance variant, while “CAT” denoted the inclusion of a catalytic converter to meet increasingly stringent emissions regulations. This model combined Porsche’s engineering prowess with a focus on driver comfort and refinement, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance coupe capable of long-distance travel. The 928 was never a high-volume seller compared to the 911, but it cultivated a dedicated following and remains a sought-after classic today.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the 928 5.0 S CAT is its 4.957-liter (302.49 cubic inch) V8 engine, designated M28.46. This naturally aspirated engine produces 288 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 400 Nm (295.02 lb-ft) of torque at 2700 rpm. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and multi-port fuel injection. This configuration delivers a smooth and responsive power delivery, characteristic of Porsche engines. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission.

Performance figures for the 928 5.0 S CAT are impressive for its era. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 6.7 seconds, while the 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in around 6.4 seconds. The car boasts a top speed of 247 km/h (153.48 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 5.4 kg/Hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 3.9 kg/Nm contribute to its spirited driving experience. The engine’s power-to-litre ratio is 58.1 Hp/l, demonstrating its efficient design.

Design & Features

The Porsche 928 is instantly recognizable for its sleek, aerodynamic coupe body style. Designed by Harm Lagaay, the 928’s exterior features a distinctive pop-up headlight design and a long, sloping hood. The car’s body is constructed primarily of steel, with aluminum used for certain panels to reduce weight. The 928 is a two-door, four-seater coupe, offering a surprising amount of interior space for a sports car.

The interior of the 928 5.0 S CAT is focused on driver comfort and luxury. The cabin is well-appointed with leather upholstery and features a comprehensive array of gauges and controls. Standard features included power windows, power steering, and air conditioning. Safety features, while limited by the standards of the time, included anti-lock brakes (ABS), a significant advancement for a sports car of the 1980s and early 1990s. The 928’s design prioritized both aesthetics and functionality, creating a driving environment that was both engaging and comfortable.

Technical Specifications