1986 Porsche 928 Overview
The 1986 Porsche 928 is a distinguished grand tourer that exemplifies Porsche’s commitment to blending luxury, comfort, and exhilarating performance. Originally launched in the late 1970s, the Porsche 928 was designed as a forward-thinking alternative to the brand’s flagship 911 model. By the time the 1986 model year arrived, the 928 had evolved into a sophisticated, technologically advanced sports car, maintaining its reputation as one of the most unique and versatile vehicles in Porsche’s history.
Design and Exterior
The Porsche 928’s exterior styling is an unmistakable mix of sleek aerodynamics and muscular elegance. Its elongated body, wide stance, and prominent, flared wheel arches create a commanding presence on the road. One of its most iconic design features is the distinctive “pop-up” headlights, which were flush with the hood when not in use, contributing to the car’s low drag coefficient. The rear of the car is just as striking, with a distinctive rounded hatchback design that offers both style and practicality.
In 1986, the 928 was available in several attractive color options, including classic Porsche shades like Guards Red, Grand Prix White, and Meteor Metallic. The car’s aggressive yet refined lines, paired with its large 16-inch wheels, created a look that stood apart from traditional sports cars of the era.
Interior and Features
Inside, the 1986 Porsche 928 exudes luxury and comfort, making it ideal for long-distance cruising. The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials, featuring leather-wrapped surfaces and bolstered seating that provides both support and comfort for driver and passengers. The 928’s interior layout was driver-focused, with all key controls within easy reach, emphasizing the car’s sport-touring intent.
Standard features for the 1986 model year included power-adjustable seats, air conditioning, a premium audio system, and power windows. Porsche’s attention to detail was evident in the ergonomically designed dashboard and center console, which wrapped around the driver for easy access to the vehicle’s various controls.
A unique feature of the 928 is its rear seat configuration. While technically a 2+2, the rear seats are small, best suited for short trips or additional storage space. However, the 928 was also equipped with a rear hatch that opens to a spacious cargo area, making it more practical than many other sports cars of its time.
Engine and Performance
At the heart of the 1986 Porsche 928 is a powerful 5.0-liter V8 engine, producing 288 horsepower and 302 lb-ft of torque. This front-mounted, water-cooled V8 was a departure from Porsche’s typical rear-engine, air-cooled configuration seen in the 911, and it helped the 928 stand out as a grand tourer capable of smooth, refined power delivery.
Mated to this V8 engine was either a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual, with the latter being the more enthusiast-focused option. The 928’s robust engine delivered impressive acceleration, with 0 to 60 mph achieved in approximately 6.5 seconds, making it one of the fastest production cars of its era. It could also reach a top speed of over 150 mph, showcasing its prowess on both the highway and the track.
The 1986 928 featured Porsche’s advanced Weissach Axle, which helped enhance stability, especially in high-speed cornering. This unique rear suspension design allowed for controlled oversteer and provided excellent road handling, making the 928 both a thrilling sports car and a capable grand tourer. The car’s 50/50 weight distribution, aided by its transaxle design, further contributed to its balanced driving dynamics.
Technology and Innovations
For 1986, the Porsche 928 came equipped with cutting-edge technology for the time. Key innovations included:
- ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): A major safety feature, particularly advanced for a 1980s sports car, ensuring enhanced control under hard braking.
- Power-assisted steering and brakes: Offered effortless control and driving ease, whether at high speeds or during low-speed maneuvers.
- Optional Limited-Slip Differential (LSD): Enhanced the car’s traction, especially in dynamic driving conditions or poor weather.
Porsche was forward-thinking in offering features like cruise control, an onboard computer with fuel consumption monitoring, and an upgraded sound system.
Driving Experience
The 1986 Porsche 928 delivers a driving experience that is best described as refined yet exhilarating. Its powerful V8 engine provides smooth acceleration, while the car’s advanced suspension and handling systems ensure confidence in tight corners and at high speeds. Whether cruising on the highway or navigating winding roads, the 928 strikes a balance between high-performance driving and long-distance comfort.
The precision of the 5-speed manual gearbox is often preferred by driving purists for its engaging feel, but the automatic option offers smooth shifts and is ideal for those who favor a more relaxed driving experience. With a supple ride quality and well-insulated cabin, the 928 is equally at home on spirited drives or extended road trips.
Legacy and Collectibility
Today, the 1986 Porsche 928 is regarded as a classic in Porsche’s lineup, standing out as one of the most innovative vehicles produced by the German automaker during the 1980s. Its blend of V8 performance, luxurious appointments, and grand touring comfort have made it a sought-after model among collectors and enthusiasts. The 928’s unique place in Porsche history, being one of the few front-engine models ever produced by the brand, adds to its allure.
Well-maintained examples of the 1986 928 can be highly collectible, especially those with the desirable 5-speed manual transmission. The car’s robust engineering and build quality have allowed many to remain in good condition, with their timeless design and unmistakable driving experience continuing to captivate drivers decades after production.
