The Porsche 928 S4, produced between 1986 and 1991, represents a high point in the evolution of Porsche’s grand touring coupe. Replacing the original 928 launched in 1977, the S4 (for Super 4) was the most powerful and refined version of the model, designed to blend performance with luxury and everyday usability. It stood apart from the traditional 911, offering a front-engine, V8 configuration and a more spacious interior, appealing to a different segment of the sports car market. The 928 S4 was Porsche’s flagship coupe during its production run, embodying a commitment to engineering excellence and sophisticated design.
The Porsche 928 5.0 S4: A Grand Touring Icon
The 928 was conceived as a replacement for the aging 911, intended to be a more modern and luxurious grand tourer. However, the 911’s continued popularity meant the 928 coexisted alongside it for many years. The S4 variant, with its increased displacement and refined features, solidified the 928’s position as a capable and desirable alternative. It was a significant departure from Porsche’s traditional rear-engined layout, embracing a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration that offered improved balance and handling characteristics. The S4’s design was both elegant and aerodynamic, reflecting the styling trends of the 1980s while maintaining a distinctly Porsche aesthetic.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 928 S4 lies a naturally aspirated, 4.9-liter (302.49 cubic inches) V8 engine, designated M28.41. This powerplant produced 320 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 430 Newton-meters (317.15 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm, delivering a power-to-weight ratio of 64.6 hp per liter. The engine featured multi-port manifold fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration allowed for smooth power delivery and a broad torque curve, making the S4 equally at home on winding roads and long highway journeys. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and rear-wheel-drive layout contributed to the car’s balanced handling. The S4 was available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic, catering to different driver preferences. Performance figures were impressive for the era, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5.3 seconds and a top speed exceeding 170 mph.
Design & Features
The Porsche 928 S4 is a two-door coupe with seating for four passengers, a relatively uncommon feature for sports cars of the time. Its sleek, aerodynamic body was characterized by its pop-up headlights, integrated front and rear spoilers, and a distinctive glass hatchback. The S4 received several styling updates compared to earlier 928 models, including a smoother front fascia and revised rear valance. Inside, the S4 offered a luxurious and well-appointed cabin, featuring leather upholstery, power windows, and air conditioning as standard equipment. The interior design prioritized driver comfort and ergonomics, with supportive seats and a well-placed instrument cluster. Safety features, while limited by the standards of today, included anti-lock brakes (ABS) as an option, a significant advancement for the time. The 928’s design was a deliberate attempt to move away from the more utilitarian aesthetic of the 911, appealing to buyers seeking a more refined and sophisticated grand touring experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 928 |
| Generation | 928 |
| Type (Engine) | 5.0 S4 (320 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1986 |
| End of production | 1991 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 320 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 64.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 430 Nm @ 3000 rpm / 317.15 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | M28.41 |
| 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 |
| Fuel tank capacity | 86 l / 22.72 US gal | 18.92 UK gal |
| Length | 4520 mm / 177.95 in. |
| Width | 1836 mm / 72.28 in. |
| Height | 1282 mm / 50.47 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2500 mm / 98.43 in. |
| Front track | 1551 mm / 61.06 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1546 mm / 60.87 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm / 4.72 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m / 38.39 ft. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| 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 | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
The Porsche 928 S4 remains a highly sought-after classic car, appreciated for its unique blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive styling. It represents a bold and innovative chapter in Porsche’s history, demonstrating the company’s willingness to explore new engineering approaches and design philosophies. While ultimately overshadowed by the enduring popularity of the 911, the 928 S4 has earned a dedicated following among enthusiasts who recognize its significance as a true grand touring icon.
