RichS 1986928

Todd, if you've decided on the Early body style (pre-87) and want the 32V motor then you're
looking at the 85-86. However, there is also an 86.5 model. There were significant improvements
to this model most important, (Brakes, Suspension, Exhaust). VIN 1000+

My advice would be to cut down on the specifics you're looking for and you'll have a prayer at finding
the car you want.

Example: If you want an 86.5 5spd.... Don't get fussy on colors, you'll have a lot of trouble finding
it.

2nd bit of advice is to make sure the PO has records and serviced the car regularly. If you're 2nd
or 3rd in line of owners that all put off maintainence... You're screwed.

Todd157k

Thanks Rich. Ya, I saw the 86.5 changes. Looks like a moving target to try and find. It just looked like the 85-86 model year had acceptable power plants, the better injection, etc. without going into the "untouchable" S4 years.

Imo000

Just a suggestion. If you want a 5-speed, by all means, don't settle for an auto. That goes for the other way around too.

The early 32V poweplants are more than what the owner's manual states. It has been shown that the '86-'86 32V 928s with a set of ebay chips will put down as much or more than an S4. Many of them also showed that even in stock form make more than the factory claimed 288hp.

bronto

You might also consider having multiple targets. By all means, manual 85-86 if that's what appeals to you. But you also might want to consider a '79 5-speed, no sunroof, no rubstrip, LSD. Speaking from experience, I'd have a hard time switching. Not that I'm considering or offering. There are some other special cars out there. That's why I say to drive all that you can. You might find that you like something else when it comes down to it.

RichS 1986928

I knew a guy with a chipped 85 5spd with custom exhaust, he also had a stock 87 Auto. He said
they had about the same HP.

Todd, I'm not sure what you mean about the 'untouchable' S4 years.
If you're not particularly looking for the early body style I would definitely look at 87 on. They
made A LOT of changes that improved the car.

If you're thinking that you'll save money by buying a pre-87.... forget it. IMHO, They
are all expensive in the long run.

Four things I know can help keep a 928 affordable. They apply to all years.
In order... Keep in mind... "Affordable" is a very relative term.

#1 Get an Awesome deal on a well maintained car.
#2 Do all the work yourself
#3 Check all the formus to find deals on parts.
#4 Forget about making it perfect... just drive it.

djurek

944 to 928 is a nice trip. More of everything. I would suggest a 78 vintage. Imported. The later US vintages with all those extra little valves can be a little BRASH. Especially when they are artifically carbonated.

Cliff Ruckstuhl

I jumped from a 951 to the 928, I loved my 951 but really love the sound of the V 8 and the 928 is by far more comfortable. Also depending on where you live your's might be the only 928 you see. There are a few 944 around where I live but I have the only 928 on the street and it gets noticed by all.

Cliff 87 S4 Murf # 44

Ed Hughes

Two things, be VERY careful if you look at the lower cost cars. Deferred maintenance on a 928, as with any Porsche can be expensive. Having said that, a lot of guys have made out well on bargain cars.

Secondly, don't underestimate the automatic in these cars. A lot of us were in the market SPECIFICALLY for automatics. They particularly make sense for daily drivers, and if you've got other fun cars in your stable with manual trannies.

Mike Frye

If you're looking for an '85-'86, the price to get in is reasonable (as you've found) and there are some relatively inexpensive mods that will boost your hp over 300. They were the first with a 32v engine, and were apparently pretty conservatively tuned stock. A set of performance chips can be had for $50 and can give a lot of bang for the buck. Next is a set of crossover pipes, same deal, about 20-30 hp proven on the dyno for under $700. Now you're into a very comfortable 300+hp supercar for $7500-$10k, maybe less. You can't beat that.

Good luck.

macreel

Todd157k... As the daily driver an auto tranny makes sense,
more so if you're on the 'urban slow-ways' where you live;

('tho I've never been slowed down on the 118; sometimes on the 210
east of Pasadena, but I'm just an occasional SoCal user)

BTW, about 80% of the USA 928 sales were Autos, not 5-speeds.

Enjoy the quest.

G'luck.