1979 Porsche 928

The Porsche 928 was a departure for the tradition-laden company. Their history mostly focused on lightweight, rear-engined air-cooled sports cars. The 928 was the first production car in Porsche's history that was a completely new design from scratch. Nothing was borrowed from the past and its clean-sheet design was dictated by then-emerging U.S. safety requirements. It was given a front-engine layout with rear-wheel drive.

The Porsche 928 made its debut in 1977 and came equipped with a 4474cc single overhead camshaft all-aluminum V8 engine fitted with Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection and offering 240 horsepower. It had a 5-speed direct 5th gear transmission was mounted in unit with the differential to optimize weight distribution and maximize interior space. The suspension setup was independent at all four corners with A-arms and coil springs in the front and coil spring 'Weissach' rear setup. Disc brakes with single-piston sliding calipers were also placed front and rear.

It was named European Car of the Year, an award that was traditionally bestowed upon family hatchbacks. Many praised the 298 as one of the greatest 'GT' cars of all time. It offered excellent handling and performance, and its design was both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jun 2017