The Porsche 928, particularly the 5.0 S V8 variant produced from 1985 to 1994, represents a pivotal moment in the marque’s history. Designed as a replacement for the iconic 911, the 928 adopted a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout – a significant departure from the 911’s traditional rear-engine configuration. This grand tourer aimed to blend performance with luxury and practicality, offering a more comfortable and refined driving experience while still delivering the exhilarating performance expected of a Porsche. The 928 was initially intended to be a more volume-oriented model, appealing to a broader customer base, but ultimately maintained a distinct identity as a sophisticated and technologically advanced sports coupe.
The Porsche 928 5.0 S V8: A Detailed Overview
The 5.0 S model, introduced in 1985, marked a substantial upgrade over earlier 928 iterations. It featured a larger 5.0-liter V8 engine, increased power output, and refined handling characteristics. The “S” designation signified a focus on sportiness, with enhancements to the suspension and braking systems. While never achieving the sales volumes Porsche initially hoped for, the 928 gained a loyal following and remains a highly sought-after classic car, celebrated for its distinctive design and engineering prowess. It was Porsche’s attempt to move into the realm of the established grand tourers like the Ferrari 365 GTB/4 and Maserati Bora, offering a blend of performance and luxury that was relatively uncommon at the time.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the 928 5.0 S is its 4.957-liter (302.49 cubic inch) naturally aspirated V8 engine, designated M28.45. This powerplant produces 288 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 410 Nm (302.4 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2700 rpm. The engine utilizes multi-port manifold fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allows for a high compression ratio of 10:1, contributing to the engine’s responsive performance. The power-to-weight ratio of 5.3 kg/Hp (189.5 Hp/tonne) and torque-to-weight ratio of 3.7 kg/Nm (269.7 Nm/tonne) highlight the car’s impressive performance capabilities. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 6.1 seconds, and the car boasts a top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The engine requires 7.5 liters (7.93 US quarts) of engine oil and 16 liters (16.91 US quarts) of coolant.
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 arrangement, a long hood, and a gently sloping rear deck. The car’s body is constructed primarily of steel, with aluminum used for certain panels to reduce weight. The interior is designed with a focus on comfort and luxury, offering seating for four passengers, although the rear seats are best suited for shorter journeys. The 928 was one of the first production cars to feature a polyurethane bumper system, designed to absorb impacts at low speeds. Safety features included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which was relatively advanced for its time. The car’s hydraulic power steering provides precise and responsive handling. The 928’s design was a deliberate attempt to move away from the 911’s more utilitarian aesthetic, appealing to buyers seeking a more sophisticated and modern grand tourer.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 928 |
| Generation | 928 |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 S V8 (288 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1985 |
| End of production | 1994 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.3 kg/Hp, 189.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 269.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 288 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 410 Nm @ 2700 rpm (302.4 lb.-ft. @ 2700 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | M28.45 |
| Engine displacement | 4957 cm3 (302.49 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 100 mm (3.94 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 78.9 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 16 l (16.91 US qt | 14.08 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1520 kg (3351.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 350 kg (771.62 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 86 l (22.72 US gal | 18.92 UK gal) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4462 mm (175.67 in.) |
| Width | 1836 mm (72.28 in.) |
| Height | 1282 mm (50.47 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm (98.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1549 mm (60.98 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone, Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 225/50 VR16 Rear wheel tires: 225/50 VR16 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7J x 16 Rear wheel rims: 7J x 16 |
The Porsche 928 5.0 S V8 remains a compelling example of 1980s automotive engineering. Its blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive styling continues to attract enthusiasts and collectors, solidifying its place as a significant model in Porsche’s rich history.
