Doug&Julie

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this car.

http://www.colossus-lp.com/84por928

Anything specific to this car, but also to this year of 928 for a potential purchase. I'm going to do some more research on the board, but I thought I'd ask this directly for best feedback.

Thanks in advance!

AO

Doug,
It all depends on your budget, tastes and what you're looking for. I think the first, and most important item, is to have a PPI (pre-purchase inspection) performed by a 928 mechanic - not just a porsche mechanic. There are subtleties with the 928 that your average p-car mech will miss. That said, this looks pretty clean, but all we can see are the cosmetics. An engine shot would be nice.
The 84 is neither an exceptional year nor a bad year. The 86.5 are probably the best for the older body style, and the 77-82 are a bit lacking in power (unless you get a Euro SA - those can be wicked fast!). You should also be willing and able to do your own work. Parts are still very expensive for these cars, but doing the work yourself helps defray the costs. We can help you with just about any technical question (non-technical too). Hope this helps to raise more questions than answers.

BTW, once your bitten by a shark, you become a shark addict!

Doug&Julie

...but you could say that about any Pcar in my book!

I'm trying to 'reduce my automotive investments' right now, so my Boxster is up for sale and I'd like to find a good Pcar at or under $10k. I've never owned a 928, but I've always wanted to experience one. (..and Julie likes their "big butts"..) So I saw this and got to thinking now may be the time. Once this one is sorted, we can always add more (as I'm still wanting another 911), but keep the shark as a "hers" car. ...if she can get it away from me!

I used to live in Indy and know a couple of good mechanics there for a PPI. But right now, I'd like to know if any of the shark experts here see anything on this car (or know anything about the model) that should deter me from pursuing this. All opinios are welcome!

Thanks so much.

DG84S

Doug,
I own an 84S and love it. Of course I wish it had more power, but it can go faster than I'm willing to go. In the absence of a PPI, at least get a local Rennlist 928 member to go over the car with you. They can look for obvious money pits. I too am concerned that there are no pics of what's under the hood. Will you be depending upon the 928 for daily driiving (work, shopping, etc.)? These cars require much more attention and maintenance than Honda Civics. They only look nice when well maintained, and maintenance is relatively expensive. Little infuriates other 928 owners more than a crappy, neglected, beat-up example. If you can be selective about when and where you drive it; if you are willing to spend $1000 - $2500 per year to hold off time and decay, then join the madness and buy it. They are unique and distinctive automobiles. The enjoyment of 928 ownership is worth its hassles and quirks. There is a great, supportive community that shares our common affection for, and knowledge about, this under-valued automotive milestone. If you do buy a 928, be prepared to be the center of attention at stop lights, gas stations, and parking lots. Other people love 'em, too!
Good luck,
Dave Goyne

AO

Well as I said before this model is a good model. One thing to note is that the with the autos they're going to feel like dogs, but with the addition od a simple kick-down switch it will behave very differently. In particulat, I didn't see anything at jumps out on this car, but then there isn't much to look at. Get more pics if possible along with pics of the engine, more interior, and belly. Then we can really comment on it.

deliriousga

Does this mean you've sold the Boxster?

That one looks pretty good, but you should ask a few basic questions before you pay for a PPI or spend alot of time researching it. Ask when the timing belt was changed and if the water pump and rollers were changed with it and if the tensioner was rebuilt at the same time. It should all be on the PO's receipts. This service is $1700-$2K if you have a mechanic do it. Also ask them if there is any noise coming from the rear. If there's a humming noise it could be the torque tube, another expensive fix (about $1500 at a mechanic). If those seem ok then get a PPI done by a 928 specialist, not just a P-car specialist.

I'm with Andrew if you want the S body style. Personally, I like the S4+ style and power. The '87+ engines have more power and will flat out shove you back in your seat. You'll love driving the 928 after having a Boxster. It's not as agile, but handles beautifully with much more uumph.

deliriousga

Oops, too late in responding and I see you haven't sold the Boxster yet.

Some +s on this car I didn't point out are I don't see any dash cracks which is rare and the seats look to be in good shape.

All in all, you really should only buy a 928 if you're willing to do the work on it yourself. Mine's a daily driver and the maintence really isn't that bad, especially when compared to the Boxster.

Comparisons for maintenance by a mechanic vs. DIY:
TB/WP, Rollers, Cam Gears & Tensioner Rebuild: Mech.-$2K DIY-$500
Clutch Rebuild: Mech.-$2K DIY-$400

I'd go with a 5-speed too.

AO

If you go with a 5-speed avoid the pre-84 cars as they have a bad synchro design and you'll be grinding 2nd gear when you get on it (like me). *sigh*

Doug&Julie

Great comments all! Let me see if I can address them...

This car will not be a daily driver, but obviously the more "driveable" it is, the more I'll drive it. Still, I'm well aware of maintaining an older Porsche...my first was an '88 944 n/a. I spent $12k for that car in 1993 and over next five years spent at least another $12k in "ownership costs". (..ok, I DID have a broken belt/slipped timing/banging valves issue at one point...but still.)

Speaking of drivability...as much as I love 911s (and still want one) I've come to the conclusion...or maybe it's more accurate to say I've reached a point in my life...that I'm more interested in "driveable" cars than in the rough and raw vehicles of the early days. So for that reason, a 928 appeals to me. Also for that reason, I have no problems with an auto-box. I'd rather have a 5spd, but I'll take an auto knowing that I'll be adding to the Pcar stable before too long (and that WILL be a 5spd 911). Besides, not that Julie can't drive a stick by any means, but I think she'd feel more comfortable jumping into a car with an auto.

I'm not much of a wrench, but I'm trying to learn. Not sure how much I'll try to do myself and how much I'll have my wrench do the work. (..at least he's an independant, so I'm not exactly paying dealer prices..) But yes, I've always heard that of all the 80s Porsches, 928s tend to be the most expensive to maintain. Still, that doesn't scare me.

My Boxster is on eBay, but even if it doesn't sell, I may head up to Indy in a week or two and check this car out in person. If I get to, I'll be sure to take my camera and post pics.

Thanks again!

Randy V

Have you driven it yet? That will tell you a lot more than pictures will.

Doug&Julie

So true! ..and no, not yet. Never driven any 928! But it seems like a car I'd like. Even if it is "heavy".