1987 Porsche 928
Ryan Watford Vehicle story
The Porsche 928 S4, introduced in 1987, was a refined evolution of Porsche’s grand touring vision—blending performance, luxury, and cutting-edge design into one sleek package. Powered by a 5.0-liter V8 producing 316 horsepower, the S4 delivered smooth, effortless acceleration and a top speed nearing 170 mph, making it one of the fastest GT cars of its era. With its distinctive pop-up headlights, wide rear haunches, and integrated rear spoiler, the 928 S4 had a futuristic yet muscular presence that set it apart from its contemporaries. Inside, it offered a driver-focused cockpit with advanced features for the time, including power-adjustable seats and an available automatic transmission that made it a capable daily driver. As the most balanced version before the GTS, the S4 remains a favorite among collectors—valued for its blend of analog charm and modern usability.
Engine
5.0-liter V8, designated M28/42 for U.S. automatic models and M28/41 for manuals. It’s an all-aluminum, 32-valve DOHC setup with Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection and electronic ignition, making it a serious step up from the earlier 16-valve 928s. In stock form, it puts out 316 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, which was huge for the late ’80s—especially from a naturally aspirated V8. Power delivery is smooth and linear, with tons of torque available down low, and it just pulls effortlessly all the way to redline. Between the balance of the transaxle layout and that V8 up front, the car has a perfect 50/50 weight distribution, and the engine itself feels refined but powerful—more of a grand tourer than a raw sports car, but with enough grunt to surprise just about anything from the era.
Wheels and tires
Factory 17″ 928 GTS Cup 2 wheels with new Goodyear tires sized 255/45 in front and 255/40 out back.
Brakes
Four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with fixed 4-piston aluminum calipers front and rear, borrowed from Porsche’s racing tech at the time. They were a major upgrade over earlier 928s and gave the S4 real stopping confidence, especially considering the car’s weight and performance. The S4 also came with ABS as standard, which was pretty advanced in the late ’80s, offering safer and more controlled braking under hard stops or poor road conditions. Pedal feel is solid and progressive, and combined with the car’s near-perfect weight distribution, it stops with authority and composure—even by modern standards.
Transmission
5-speed transaxle mounted in the rear, part of Porsche’s signature front-engine, rear-transaxle layout that gives the car perfect 50/50 weight distribution. It’s a fully synchronized gearbox, and while not as notchy or mechanical as a 911’s 915, it’s smooth and solid—more grand tourer than raw sports car. The gearing is well spaced for the engine’s torque curve, allowing strong acceleration in every gear and relaxed cruising in fifth. Clutch effort is moderate, and when everything’s dialed in, the car delivers a surprisingly modern-feeling driving experience. It’s a satisfying setup that rewards smooth, deliberate inputs and perfectly complements the V8’s power delivery.
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