🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Porsche Model: 928 Codes Model Codes: Internal Porsche codes vary by year and specification, but often relate to model year designation (e.g., '928S4' for a specific iteration). 👋 Introduction Market Position Positioning: The Porsche 928 was positioned as a premium, high-performance grand tourer, bridging the gap between sports cars and luxury sedans. It was a departure from Porsche's traditional rear-engine sports car formula. Competitive Analysis Competitors: Competed with vehicles like the Jaguar XJ-S, Aston Martin V8, Mercedes-Benz SL, and BMW 6 Series. Its front-engine, rear-drive V8 layout offered a different driving experience compared to its 911 brethren. Key Features Unique Selling Points: Transaxle design (engine at front, transmission at rear for optimal weight distribution), V8 engine, advanced (for its time) technology and luxury appointments, and distinctive styling. Manual Value Proposition Benefit To Owner: Enables owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving money on labor costs, and ensuring their 928 is maintained in optimal condition. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas General Coverage: Front to back of the vehicle, encompassing all necessary instructions for all repairs. Specific Systems Covered: Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts, Engine Performance, Front End and Alignment Procedures and Specifications, Suspension, Transmission Removal and Installation, Air Conditioning Service and Capacities, Transmission In Car Servicing, Firing Orders, Timing Belt Service Procedures, Brake Servicing Procedures, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Vacuum Diagrams. Page Count Estimated Page Count: Variable, but typically comprehensive factory workshop manuals for the 928 series range from 1000 to 3000+ pages across multiple volumes, depending on the specific model year and included supplements. Manual Type Type: Workshop Manual / Repair Manual Language Language: English (based on product description) Format Format: Likely a compilation of official Porsche factory documentation, often provided as a digital PDF or a multi-volume printed set. The description implies a comprehensive document, not a condensed version. 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul, rebuilding, timing belt service, firing orders, performance tuning, diagnostics, and troubleshooting. Engine Electrical: Wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble trees for computer systems, and engine performance diagnostics. Transmission: Removal and installation, in-car servicing, and diagnostic procedures. Specifics for automatic (e.g., 013 Sportomatic/Tiptronic on later models) or manual transmissions will be detailed. Chassis Suspension Steering: Detailed procedures and specifications for front-end alignment, suspension system repairs, and U-joint/CV-joint service. Brakes: Complete brake servicing procedures, including hydraulic system service and component replacement. HVAC: Air conditioning service and capacity specifications. Electrical Systems: Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems, and vacuum diagrams for control systems. Procedures Included Maintenance: Step-by-step explanations for safety and easily servicing the car, including basic maintenance tasks. Diagnostics Troubleshooting: In-depth troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, and computer diagnostic trouble tree charts. Repair Rebuild: Detailed repair procedures, engine overhaul and rebuilding, and component-specific servicing. Specifications: Technical specifications, complete torque specifications, and procedure-specific data. Technical Depth Depth Of Information: High. Covers everything from basic servicing to complex engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics, intended for professional use in a garage/workshop setting. Visuals: Includes illustrations, diagrams, and depth illustrations to clarify procedures. User Suitability Target Audience: Professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts with basic mechanical knowledge. Can be understood by individuals with basic mechanical knowledge to safety and easily servicing their car. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Digital Format: Typically PDF for ease of searchability and printing. High resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations. Print Quality Print Quality: If printed, expect high-quality paper and printing to withstand workshop use. If digital, clarity of digital renderings is paramount. Binding Type Binding: If printed, likely spiral-bound or multi-volume with durable bindings for lay-flat usability in a workshop. Paper Type Paper Quality: If printed, durable, possibly coated paper to resist grease and dirt common in workshops. ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Type: V8 (8-cylinder, V-configuration) Engine Displacement Variants: Initially 4.5 liters, later expanded to 4.7 liters (928 S) and 5.0 liters (928 S4, SE, GT, GTS). Valvetrain: SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) depending on the specific model year and variant. Performance Horsepower Range: Ranged from approximately 219 hp for early 4.5L models to over 326 hp for later GTS models. Torque Range: Corresponded with horsepower figures, typically ranging from around 245 lb-ft to over 320 lb-ft. Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic fuel injection on earlier models, progressing to electronic fuel injection (e.g., Motronic) on later S4 and subsequent variants. Maintenance Timing Belt: Crucial service item. Manual will detail replacement procedures, tensioning, and recommended intervals (typically 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years, but consult specific year manual). 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission Type: 5-speed manual transmission on early models and some later performance variants (e.g., 928 GT). Optional Optional Transmission Type: 3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., '013' automatic transaxle) was the more common option...
Internal Porsche codes vary by year and specification, but often relate to model year designation (e.g., '928S4' for a specific iteration).
👋 Introduction
Market Position
Positioning:
The Porsche 928 was positioned as a premium, high-performance grand tourer, bridging the gap between sports cars and luxury sedans. It was a departure from Porsche's traditional rear-engine sports car formula.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Jaguar XJ-S, Aston Martin V8, Mercedes-Benz SL, and BMW 6 Series. Its front-engine, rear-drive V8 layout offered a different driving experience compared to its 911 brethren.
Key Features
Unique Selling Points:
Transaxle design (engine at front, transmission at rear for optimal weight distribution), V8 engine, advanced (for its time) technology and luxury appointments, and distinctive styling.
Manual Value Proposition
Benefit To Owner:
Enables owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving money on labor costs, and ensuring their 928 is maintained in optimal condition.
📋 Manual Details
Coverage Areas
General Coverage:
Front to back of the vehicle, encompassing all necessary instructions for all repairs.
Specific Systems Covered:
Engine Overhaul and Rebuilding, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics, Computer Diagnostic Trouble Tree Charts, Engine Performance, Front End and Alignment Procedures and Specifications, Suspension, Transmission Removal and Installation, Air Conditioning Service and Capacities, Transmission In Car Servicing, Firing Orders, Timing Belt Service Procedures, Brake Servicing Procedures, U-Joint and CV-Joint Service Procedures, Wiring Diagrams, Vacuum Diagrams.
Page Count
Estimated Page Count:
Variable, but typically comprehensive factory workshop manuals for the 928 series range from 1000 to 3000+ pages across multiple volumes, depending on the specific model year and included supplements.
Manual Type
Type:
Workshop Manual / Repair Manual
Language
Language:
English (based on product description)
Format
Format:
Likely a compilation of official Porsche factory documentation, often provided as a digital PDF or a multi-volume printed set. The description implies a comprehensive document, not a condensed version.
📖 Manual Coverage
Systems Covered
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, rebuilding, timing belt service, firing orders, performance tuning, diagnostics, and troubleshooting.
Engine Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble trees for computer systems, and engine performance diagnostics.
Transmission:
Removal and installation, in-car servicing, and diagnostic procedures. Specifics for automatic (e.g., 013 Sportomatic/Tiptronic on later models) or manual transmissions will be detailed.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Detailed procedures and specifications for front-end alignment, suspension system repairs, and U-joint/CV-joint service.
Brakes:
Complete brake servicing procedures, including hydraulic system service and component replacement.
HVAC:
Air conditioning service and capacity specifications.
Electrical Systems:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems, and vacuum diagrams for control systems.
Procedures Included
Maintenance:
Step-by-step explanations for safety and easily servicing the car, including basic maintenance tasks.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
In-depth troubleshooting, diagnostic procedures, and computer diagnostic trouble tree charts.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed repair procedures, engine overhaul and rebuilding, and component-specific servicing.
Specifications:
Technical specifications, complete torque specifications, and procedure-specific data.
Technical Depth
Depth Of Information:
High. Covers everything from basic servicing to complex engine rebuilds and advanced diagnostics, intended for professional use in a garage/workshop setting.
Visuals:
Includes illustrations, diagrams, and depth illustrations to clarify procedures.
User Suitability
Target Audience:
Professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts with basic mechanical knowledge. Can be understood by individuals with basic mechanical knowledge to safety and easily servicing their car.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Digital Format:
Typically PDF for ease of searchability and printing. High resolution for clear diagrams and illustrations.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
If printed, expect high-quality paper and printing to withstand workshop use. If digital, clarity of digital renderings is paramount.
Binding Type
Binding:
If printed, likely spiral-bound or multi-volume with durable bindings for lay-flat usability in a workshop.
Paper Type
Paper Quality:
If printed, durable, possibly coated paper to resist grease and dirt common in workshops.
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
V8 (8-cylinder, V-configuration)
Engine Displacement Variants:
Initially 4.5 liters, later expanded to 4.7 liters (928 S) and 5.0 liters (928 S4, SE, GT, GTS).
Valvetrain:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) or DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) depending on the specific model year and variant.
Performance
Horsepower Range:
Ranged from approximately 219 hp for early 4.5L models to over 326 hp for later GTS models.
Torque Range:
Corresponded with horsepower figures, typically ranging from around 245 lb-ft to over 320 lb-ft.
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or K-Jetronic fuel injection on earlier models, progressing to electronic fuel injection (e.g., Motronic) on later S4 and subsequent variants.
Maintenance
Timing Belt:
Crucial service item. Manual will detail replacement procedures, tensioning, and recommended intervals (typically 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years, but consult specific year manual).
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed manual transmission on early models and some later performance variants (e.g., 928 GT).
Optional
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed or 4-speed automatic transmission (e.g., '013' automatic transaxle) was the more common option for many buyers, particularly in North America. Later models featured a 4-speed 'Tiptronic' automatic.
Features
Transaxle Design:
Rear-mounted transaxle (integrated gearbox and differential) for optimal front-to-rear weight distribution, a key engineering feature of the 928.
Maintenance
Fluid Type:
Specific ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) type for automatic transmissions, and gear oil for manual transmissions. Manual will specify exact Porsche or OEM fluid specifications.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Style:
2-door coupe / grand tourer
Length Variants:
Varied slightly across model years, generally around 4.5-4.7 meters.
Weights
Curb Weight Range:
Typically around 1500-1650 kg (approx. 3300-3650 lbs) depending on model and equipment.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2.5 meters (around 98.4 inches).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Test Results:
As a car from the late 1970s through 1990s, official standardized crash test ratings (like NHTSA or Euro NCAP) might not be as comprehensive or directly comparable to modern vehicles. However, its robust construction and engineering were hallmarks of Porsche.
Active Features
Braking System:
Disc brakes on all four wheels, often with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) introduced on later models (e.g., 928 S4).
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver's airbag became standard on later models (e.g., 928 S4). Passenger airbag availability varied by market and year.
Structure:
Designed with a strong chassis and safety cage structure, typical of Porsche engineering.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Early models featured basic AM/FM radio and cassette players. Later models offered more integrated Clarion or Blaupunkt systems, often with cassette and CD capabilities. Options for amplifiers and subwoofers were available.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) became available on later models, significantly enhancing braking safety and control.
Connectivity
Wiring Diagrams Utility:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams are essential for diagnosing and repairing electrical faults, integrating aftermarket electronics, or understanding the vehicle's complex electrical architecture.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or annually, depending on driving conditions. Manual will provide precise recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical, often recommended every 30,000-60,000 miles or 3-5 years. Manual will detail correct interval and procedure.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
Specific viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-40, 15W-50) and API service classification, likely requiring a high-quality synthetic. Manual will specify exact Porsche A40 or equivalent.
Coolant:
Typically a 50/50 mix of deionized water and a high-quality ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (e.g., Porsche-approved coolant or equivalent meeting specific standards). Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 brake fluid, depending on the model year and braking system design. Manual will specify exact specification and change interval.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Fuel lines (due to age and material degradation), coolant hoses, power steering hoses, window regulators, headlight lift motors, and potential issues with the ABS control unit or electronic fuel injection system on older models.
Timing Belt Failure Consequences:
The V8 engines in the 928 are generally interference engines, meaning timing belt failure can result in catastrophic engine damage (bent valves, damaged pistons).
Torque Specifications
Importance:
The manual emphasizes complete torque specifications, which are critical for engine, transmission, suspension, and wheel mounting to ensure safety and prevent component failure.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Porsche Philosophy:
Porsche is renowned for performance, engineering excellence, and driver engagement. The 928 represented an evolution of these principles into a different automotive segment.
Approximately 61,000 units produced over its 17-year lifespan.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
European Car Of The Year:
The Porsche 928 was named European Car of the Year in 1978, a significant achievement for a car from a performance-oriented manufacturer and a strong endorsement of its innovative design and engineering.