I saw pics the other day of an '88 S4 and the odometer and a couple other dash items were digital. Is that original on later '88s? I don't remember seeing that before.

H2

 

There was an 89 advertised in West Seattle as a 88. Had the digital dash and 89 vin.... 5sp too..low miles.. I suspect just an improperly labeled ad...

 

Harvey, the 88 and 87 use the earlier non-digi dash...

 

I believe late 88 models have the digital dash as they were sold as 89 models.

 

1989 to 1995 models have the digital dash..... 1988 models DO NOT

Here's some other changes 1988 versus 1989 (credit David Roberts)

> Here are the differences/upgrades between an 88S4 and 89S4 928

**>> 89 has the lower Euro gearing , 2.64 (89GT is 2.72) vs 88s 2.20 (auto
2.54 vs 88s 2.20)
>> 89 has improved cylinder heads for better breathing
>> 89 has more advanced computer engine management system.
>> 89 has additional timing belt idler/stabilizer
>> 89 has Updated Back-Lit Instrument Cluster with 21-function Computer
>> Electronic Information and Diagnostic Display System
>> 89 has Standard 10-speaker Stereo system with 6-channel amp
>> 89 has Anti-Theft System as standard equipment.
>> 89 has "cute" little flashing Alarm LEDs in the door lock posts to warn
off intruders
**>> 89 has capability of locking doors from hatch lock (some late 88s have
this feature also)
>> 89 has Roof Mounted antenna (fin)
>> 89 has Standard Rear A/C system



'89 S4 GP White/Black
'76 912E Silver/Black sunroof

 

Mine is a late build 88 and has no digital.It does however have the door from hatch remote lock and a roof antenna.

 

Mine is a late 88 (VIN *1849) and definately have a non-digital dash.

 

My baby was born November 1988, Digital dash, roof antenna and 2 remote hatch releases (euro)

 

^ November 1988 is way into the 1989 model year. It would be surprising, if it did not have the digital dash.

Model year change over is usually around the end of July. Check the manufacturing date on the sticker in the driver side door jamb.

My early 1991 model did not have the new door and A-pillar rubber pieces that were otherwise standard for that model year.

 

Yeah, November 88 build should be VIN'd and regsistered as an 89. You should also have the LED door lock pins and several other changes that identify it as 89.

 

I do understand that Porsche took some liberties on using different model year parts just to clear out the bins. I had this on my '85.

H2