Had85928S

I just keep thinking about getting a 928 again. I like the 1985-1986 model but am leary due to the fact that it was the new year for the new motor and my father's was in the shop all the time and expensive in the mid 80s so he sold it.

Does any one know if the 86-86.5 was more reliable then the 85? This would make a big difference.

It would have to be a 5 speed. I cannot afford to get one that will consistently break now. I have a pretty good weekend car that I would have to replace to make room for a 928. This car has cost me basically nothing.

Any thoughts?

Thanks.

928drvr86.5

You want the 86.5 in my opinion. There isn't much of a premium over the 85-86 models and you get the S4 suspension and Brembo brakes, a big + . The 85-86.5 32v motors can be easily modded to S4 performance levels with chips and exhaust, and the LH injection as has a history of being more reliable than the S4's.

Daniel Dudley

I wouldn't reccomend that you get rid of a driver to get a 928. From what you have said, the maintenance would be an issue.

If you want a 928, the 86.5 is a great model. If you are not planning to wrench on it yourself, I would suggest that you find out if there is a 928 Guru in your area. Make friends with that person, and buy the 928 that he reccomends. Have at least 2K set aside for catch up maintenance after you buy. LOL

Stan.Shaw@Excell.Net

"It would have to be a 5 speed. I cannot afford to get one that will consistently break now"

Make sure you get a pre purchase inspection, commonly referred to as a PPI. A poorly maintained 928 will be a nightmare for you with the expectations you have. Ensure the mechaninc is 928 knowledgible, perhaps checking here first.

Alan '79 928

A couple of thoughts:

-most of these cars are 20+ years old now. Parts are going to break and/or wear out occasionally. Parts aren't cheap and if you can't do the work yourself neither is labor at a good mechanic - if you can find one.

-You say you have a pretty good weekend car the costs nothing. If you expect the same from your 928 you will be disappointed. Even if you buy well maintained one, budget $1500+ per year for repairs and maintenance. It will cost less some years but not always.

I don't want to discourage you from buying one. I love my 928 and would like to buy another couple. Just understand what you are getting into. 928s are great cars if well cared for but it is not like buying a Mustang or 350Z. If you don't depend on it as your daily driver and you can deal with the upkeep there are no other cars that can deliver the style, performance and comfort for the price.

Had85928S

Thanks so much for the input. It really helps. I guess the best thing to do would be to wait until I can afford maintenance. Right now would be very hard as I am trying to get back on my feet again.

Hopefully down the line it will work. I also want to supercharge it.

928drvr86.5

This statement is key. It's nearly impossible to enjoy a 928 maintenance free. If maintenance is kept up with it can be a very rewarding ownership, especially if you are the one doing the labor. Eventually you develope a relationship with the car, you get to know it. It will also come to a point where the UPS man becomes Santa Claus, there's not a 928er on the list that has not felt that way. The car will reward you with tons of pleasurable driving but they are far from maintenance free.

Art_Z

this probably is true for ANY car 20+ years old, especially if its to be driven, not trailered to car shows. I think spending time on any of the other boards here, or other car enthusiast boards (MB, BMW, Jag, Lotus, Ferrari, etc) will illuminate that. Some cars need more than others, but don't look for a 2006 Honda Civic experience with a performance car from 20 years ago.

Jim bailey - 928 International

You pretty much summed it up with this statement..." my father's was in the shop all the time and expensive in the mid 80s so he sold it." ..... because the parts have become much more expensive and so has hourly labor rates in the last 15-20 years.