So I think I narrowed it down to this:
10-10-2007, 11:55 PM
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So I think I narrowed it down to this:
Well, I have so far only driving one 928 briefly that was in super nice shape (thanks nicole!). Luckily it was an automatic. I had my doubts about it, but thanks to some instruction you can apparently drive those very well. And since I am however a 'modest performance nut' I would prefer a later model. Seeing as though I like either body style I have it now down to this:
85 and later 928S or anything thereafter. Such as S4. I have to drive a manual first before any final thoughts, but I'm not opposed to an automatic. Namely if it comes down to a nicer auto than a ratty manual, I'll take the automatic.
I was wondering if there's a resource where I can find some of the standard features for specific years? I found a few owners manuals online but it's a little inconclusive. Also, what do the owners of early US spec S cars and non S cars think as far as performance goes, especially with the three speed auto?
Also it looks like I already may have found a taker for my GMC and that'll put a little change in the bank account, which is very nice. Not going to rush into anything. I was thinking more along a birthday present (feb 14th.) to myself.
Any other insight will be greatly appreciated!
Sorry this got a little longer than I had intended. Coffee helps
85 and later 928S or anything thereafter. Such as S4. I have to drive a manual first before any final thoughts, but I'm not opposed to an automatic. Namely if it comes down to a nicer auto than a ratty manual, I'll take the automatic.
I was wondering if there's a resource where I can find some of the standard features for specific years? I found a few owners manuals online but it's a little inconclusive. Also, what do the owners of early US spec S cars and non S cars think as far as performance goes, especially with the three speed auto?
Also it looks like I already may have found a taker for my GMC and that'll put a little change in the bank account, which is very nice. Not going to rush into anything. I was thinking more along a birthday present (feb 14th.) to myself.
Any other insight will be greatly appreciated!
Sorry this got a little longer than I had intended. Coffee helps
10-11-2007, 12:04 AM
#2
Nordschleife Master
I was wondering if there's a resource where I can find some of the standard features for specific years? I found a few owners manuals online but it's a little inconclusive. Also, what do the owners of early US spec S cars and non S cars think as far as performance goes, especially with the three speed auto?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Porsche_928#928_evolution
10-11-2007, 12:45 AM
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Hi Christoph:
It was great to see you again! Glad you enjoyed the (short) drive with the S4.
As I offered, you are more than welcome to spend some time here and go through my archives; read through the books, brochures, and magazines. Swedish Coffee and answers to your questions are free...
Since you said you want a 4-valver (85 or later) you should not worry about 3-speed automatics - they ended with the 82 model year. 83+ have 4-speed automatics.
Here are a few noticeable upgrades for the first few years of 4-valve engine models:
85: 288 hp 4-valve engine, improved front seats, and I believe improved synchros
86.5 (86 from VIN 1000): S4 front suspension, ABS
87: First year of S4 with revised bumper covers, 316hp, electric fans, heads can be removed with engine in car. Single disc clutch on manuals; automatics launch in 2nd gear unless "persuaded" to start in first. Early 87 models have folding wing, and engine block with oil squirters that cool the pistons (apparently good for supercharging). Also, there were quite a few 87 models without side molding...
88: Only minor changes, including 3-point belts in rear.
89: Last MY without airbag. Electrical system much improved. These are the first cars with the digital display you saw in my car. GT with 326hp replaced manual S4 during the model year.
90: Airbags, roof antenna, PSD and RDK added. All S4 are automatics, all GT are manual
91: Improved power steering, better noise insulation, HVAC with recirculation function, improved manual shifter and parking brake handle, improved engine light,...
If the cost of potential repairs are a worry, I'd go with the automatic - no worryies about clutches, synchros, or the like. The automatics seem to last a very long time without problems. Just make sure there's always enough fluid in them...
It was great to see you again! Glad you enjoyed the (short) drive with the S4.
As I offered, you are more than welcome to spend some time here and go through my archives; read through the books, brochures, and magazines. Swedish Coffee and answers to your questions are free...
Since you said you want a 4-valver (85 or later) you should not worry about 3-speed automatics - they ended with the 82 model year. 83+ have 4-speed automatics.
Here are a few noticeable upgrades for the first few years of 4-valve engine models:
85: 288 hp 4-valve engine, improved front seats, and I believe improved synchros
86.5 (86 from VIN 1000): S4 front suspension, ABS
87: First year of S4 with revised bumper covers, 316hp, electric fans, heads can be removed with engine in car. Single disc clutch on manuals; automatics launch in 2nd gear unless "persuaded" to start in first. Early 87 models have folding wing, and engine block with oil squirters that cool the pistons (apparently good for supercharging). Also, there were quite a few 87 models without side molding...
88: Only minor changes, including 3-point belts in rear.
89: Last MY without airbag. Electrical system much improved. These are the first cars with the digital display you saw in my car. GT with 326hp replaced manual S4 during the model year.
90: Airbags, roof antenna, PSD and RDK added. All S4 are automatics, all GT are manual
91: Improved power steering, better noise insulation, HVAC with recirculation function, improved manual shifter and parking brake handle, improved engine light,...
If the cost of potential repairs are a worry, I'd go with the automatic - no worryies about clutches, synchros, or the like. The automatics seem to last a very long time without problems. Just make sure there's always enough fluid in them...
10-11-2007, 12:58 AM
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Which reminds me: TBF to some people means "Timing Belt Failure", and to others it means "Thrust Bearing Failure". Both are the worst possible things that can happen to a 928 engine - even though Thrust Bearing Failurle is almost exclusively an issue for S4 and GTS models with automatic. It takes about an hour to check pressure on the flex plate and release it.
10-11-2007, 01:23 AM
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Hmm I will do my darndest to keep the timing belt and everything attached to it in proper order. Expensive repairs don't seem like a lot of fun.
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10-11-2007, 04:53 AM
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The website is awesome
Jason
10-11-2007, 10:51 AM
#9
Burning Brakes
Which reminds me: TBF to some people means "Timing Belt Failure", and to others it means "Thrust Bearing Failure". Both are the worst possible things that can happen to a 928 engine - even though Thrust Bearing Failurle is almost exclusively an issue for S4 and GTS models with automatic. It takes about an hour to check pressure on the flex plate and release it.
- ABS started with the 86 model, not 86.5
- Thrust Bearing Failure is a concern for 85-86 automatics as well as 87+, from what I understand.
Matt
10-11-2007, 11:08 AM
#10
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...but you can't do it on the early 4-valvers. That could be a factor in case of a failed timing belt...
Which reminds me: TBF to some people means "Timing Belt Failure", and to others it means "Thrust Bearing Failure". Both are the worst possible things that can happen to a 928 engine - even though Thrust Bearing Failurle is almost exclusively an issue for S4 and GTS models with automatic. It takes about an hour to check pressure on the flex plate and release it.
Which reminds me: TBF to some people means "Timing Belt Failure", and to others it means "Thrust Bearing Failure". Both are the worst possible things that can happen to a 928 engine - even though Thrust Bearing Failurle is almost exclusively an issue for S4 and GTS models with automatic. It takes about an hour to check pressure on the flex plate and release it.