The 1986 Porsche 928 is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive grand tourer produced from 1978 to 1995. Distinguished by its unique hatchback body style and V8 power, it represented a departure from Porsche's traditional rear-engine sports cars. Key trims include the base model and the more potent S4. Its popularity stems from its blend of luxury, performance, and unconventional design, making it a distinctive choice for enthusiasts seeking something beyond the everyday sports car.
The Good
The 1986 Porsche 928 offers exhilarating V8 performance, surprising long-distance comfort, and a timeless, aerodynamic design. Its robust German engineering contributes to a sense of reliability, while its hatchback practicality appeals to both the heart and the head.
The Bad
Common concerns for the 1986 Porsche 928 include potential electrical gremlins, aging cooling system components, and wear on the automatic transmission. Interior plastics can become brittle, and rust can be an issue on neglected examples, especially around the wheel arches and sills.
1986 Porsche 928: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1986 Porsche 928 was primarily equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine.
- Horsepower: For the 1986 model year, the 5.0L V8 produced approximately 258 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy was not a strong suit of the 928, with EPA estimates typically in the range of 13-15 MPG city and 18-20 MPG highway.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration figures for the 1986 928 were generally in the high 6-second to low 7-second range, depending on transmission and specific conditions.
- Towing Capacity: Towing capacity is not a relevant specification for the Porsche 928; it was designed as a personal luxury sports car.
- Trim-Level Features: The 1986 model year offered a well-appointed interior for its time. Key features included:
- Leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Automatic climate control
- Power windows and mirrors
- Cruise control
- A premium sound system (often Blaupunkt)
- A rear spoiler
- Disc brakes on all four wheels
- Limited-slip differential (often standard or optional)
- Pop-up headlights
- A hatchback design for cargo versatility.
- Transmission: Available with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
- Drivetrain: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout.
- Suspension: Independent suspension on all four wheels, often with the Transaxle concept (transmission and differential at the rear) for better weight distribution.
1986 Porsche 928 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1986 |
| Make | Porsche |
| Model | 928 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Germany |
| Manufacturing City | STUTTGART-ZUFFENHAUSEN |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.8-L V-8 SOHC 12V |
| Engine Size | 4.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 1986 Porsche 928 Have?
The 1986 Porsche 928, while generally robust, is not without its common issues as it ages. One of the most frequently reported concerns revolves around the car's complex electrical system. Aging wiring harnesses, faulty sensors, and corroded connectors can lead to a myriad of minor and major electrical gremlins, from non-functioning gauges to intermittent power losses. Owners often face the daunting task of tracing and repairing these issues. The cooling system is another area prone to problems. The plastic components, particularly the radiator end tanks and heater control valves, can become brittle with age and heat cycles, leading to leaks. Overheating can be a serious and costly problem if not addressed promptly. The automatic transmission, while generally durable, can develop issues with torque converter leaks or solenoid failures. The 5-speed manual, though less complex, can suffer from clutch wear and synchronizer issues. Interior components also show their age; the leather upholstery can dry out and crack, and the plastic trim pieces, especially around the dashboard and door panels, can become brittle and prone to breaking. The pop-up headlight mechanisms, a signature feature, can become slow or inoperable due to worn gears or motors. While there haven't been widespread recalls specifically for the 1986 model year that are particularly alarming, regular maintenance is key to mitigating long-term reliability concerns. Porsche parts can be expensive, and specialized knowledge is often required for repairs, making maintenance and repair costs a significant consideration for long-term ownership. No significant model-year specific issues are widely cited for the 1986 model that differ substantially from other cars in its generation, but focusing on thorough pre-purchase inspections and diligent maintenance is paramount.
How long will the 1986 Porsche 928 last?
Based on owner data and anecdotal evidence, a well-maintained 1986 Porsche 928 can reasonably achieve 200,000 to 250,000 miles or more. The core V8 engine and drivetrain are known for their long-term durability when properly serviced with high-quality fluids and timely component replacements. However, weaknesses emerge with age. Electrical systems, cooling components, and suspension bushings are areas that typically require attention and refurbishment over time. The longevity heavily depends on the owner's commitment to preventative maintenance and willingness to address potential issues before they become major failures. Neglected examples may not reach these mileage figures due to cumulative wear and tear on aging systems.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1986 Porsche 928, while not a modern tech marvel by today's standards, offered a respectable suite of features for its era, emphasizing driver comfort and a premium experience. Standard technology included power-adjustable front seats, power windows, power mirrors, and cruise control, all contributing to a luxurious feel. The entertainment system typically consisted of a high-quality analog radio, often from brands like Blaupunkt, with multiple speakers for an immersive audio experience. Climate control was also a standard feature, ensuring a comfortable cabin temperature. Driver-assistance features were rudimentary by modern definitions, focusing on enhancing the driving experience rather than actively intervening. The car's design itself, with its aerodynamic shape and excellent visibility, could be considered a form of passive assistance. Safety features were also representative of the mid-1980s. Standard equipment included front disc brakes, often ventilated, providing strong stopping power. A limited-slip differential was often included or available, enhancing traction and stability. Seatbelts were, of course, standard. Optional features could have included things like a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, or different wheel designs. Crash-test ratings for vehicles from this era are not as standardized or readily available as they are today. While the 928 was engineered with a robust chassis and safety in mind, comprehensive official crash-test data from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS for this specific model year is scarce. However, its construction, featuring crumple zones and a strong passenger cell, was designed to offer a good level of protection for its time. The focus was on active safety through good handling and braking, complemented by passive safety restraints. It's important to note that features like airbags were not standard on this model, which was common for many cars in the mid-1980s.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1986 Porsche 928 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1986 Porsche 928 carried a substantial price tag, typically in the range of $40,000 to $50,000, making it a luxury item. Like most high-end vehicles of its era, it experienced significant depreciation in its early years. However, over time, the 928 has seen its value stabilize and, for well-maintained or rarer examples, even appreciate, especially in the collector's market. Current used market prices vary widely, generally ranging from $10,000 for project cars to upwards of $30,000-$50,000+ for pristine, low-mileage examples, particularly later S4 or GTS models (though the prompt specifies the 1986). Factors affecting resale value include condition, mileage, originality, service history, and specific trim/options. Rarity and desirability of the V8 front-engine Porsche formula also contribute to its current market standing.
1986 Porsche 928 Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1986 Porsche 928 is generally considered costly. Insurance premiums can be higher due to its classic sports car status and performance. Fuel consumption, with its V8 engine, is substantial, averaging around 13-15 MPG in city driving. Maintenance requires specialized knowledge and can be expensive, especially for routine servicing and specialized parts. Repairs, particularly for electrical issues or complex mechanical components, can quickly escalate costs. While its value has stabilized and can even appreciate, the day-to-day and periodic ownership expenses make the 928 a car for enthusiasts with a dedicated budget rather than an economical daily driver.
1986 Porsche 928 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1986 Porsche 928 Recalls & Defects
Engine and Engine Cooling:exhaust System:emission Control:catalytic Convertor
Recall date
1989-06-28
Recall no.
89v106000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Inadequate Heat Shield Above Catalytic Converter Could Overheat.
Consequence
Materials Near Catalytic Converter, Including Lines Forautomatic Transmission Fluid, Could Ignite and Cause AN Underbody Fire.
Remedy
Replace Heat Shield FOR Catalytic Converter With A Larger, Improved Heat Shield.
Notes
System:heat Shield FOR Catalytic Converter.vehicle Description:passenger Cars.
1986 Porsche 928 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1986 Porsche 928 Insurance
Insurance for a 1986 Porsche 928 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1986 Porsche 928 Compare to Other Coupe?
The 1986 Porsche 928 competed in a rarefied segment against other high-performance luxury grand tourers. Key rivals included cars like the Jaguar XJ-S, the Chevrolet Corvette (C4), and occasionally models like the BMW 6 Series (E24).
Performance: The 928's V8 offered strong acceleration and a refined power delivery, often surpassing the Corvette in GT comfort and refinement, though perhaps not in raw track-day performance. The Jaguar XJ-S, with its V12, offered smoother torque but sometimes less precise handling.
Features: Porsche typically led in interior luxury and build quality compared to the Corvette, which was more spartan. The XJ-S offered a distinct British luxury, while the BMW 6 Series provided a balance of sporty handling and German luxury. The 928's hatchback practicality was a unique selling point.
Reliability: This is where the 928 often faced challenges. While robust in its core engineering, its complex electrical systems and aging components could be temperamental. The Corvette, particularly in its early C4 iterations, had its own reliability quirks but was generally simpler mechanically. Jaguar reliability from this era had a mixed reputation. BMW often offered a good balance of performance and reasonable reliability for its class.
Price: The 928 was positioned at the higher end of this spectrum when new, often costing more than a comparable Corvette or Jaguar. Today, 1986 928s can be found at prices that overlap with well-preserved examples of their rivals.
Alternatives:
Performance: The 928's V8 offered strong acceleration and a refined power delivery, often surpassing the Corvette in GT comfort and refinement, though perhaps not in raw track-day performance. The Jaguar XJ-S, with its V12, offered smoother torque but sometimes less precise handling.
Features: Porsche typically led in interior luxury and build quality compared to the Corvette, which was more spartan. The XJ-S offered a distinct British luxury, while the BMW 6 Series provided a balance of sporty handling and German luxury. The 928's hatchback practicality was a unique selling point.
Reliability: This is where the 928 often faced challenges. While robust in its core engineering, its complex electrical systems and aging components could be temperamental. The Corvette, particularly in its early C4 iterations, had its own reliability quirks but was generally simpler mechanically. Jaguar reliability from this era had a mixed reputation. BMW often offered a good balance of performance and reasonable reliability for its class.
Price: The 928 was positioned at the higher end of this spectrum when new, often costing more than a comparable Corvette or Jaguar. Today, 1986 928s can be found at prices that overlap with well-preserved examples of their rivals.
Alternatives:
- For similar performance and luxury: A later model Porsche 911 (964 or 993 generation) offers a more traditional Porsche driving experience. A BMW 8 Series (E31) provides a more modern interpretation of a luxury GT.
- For more raw performance and potentially better reliability (simpler mechanics): A Chevrolet Corvette (C4), particularly later models, could be considered, though it lacks the 928's unique styling and refinement.
- For classic luxury and V12 power: A well-maintained Jaguar XJ-S offers a different, more classic GT experience.
Final Verdict: Is the 1986 Porsche 928 a Good Coupe?
The 1986 Porsche 928 is ideal for the discerning automotive enthusiast who appreciates a unique blend of V8 power, European luxury, and distinctive design, and who possesses a healthy budget for maintenance and repairs. It is certainly worth buying for the right person, but primarily as a used vehicle. It's not an economical choice for a daily driver due to its fuel consumption and potentially high running costs. A well-inspected, meticulously maintained example is crucial. While the base model offers V8 performance, later iterations like the S4 (though not this specific year) generally offer more power and refined features. This car is best suited for weekend cruising, spirited drives, and as a collectible that requires dedicated care and ownership.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.