1979 Porsche 928: The Bold Departure
The 1979 Porsche 928 marked a significant and ambitious departure from the iconic 911. Conceived as a successor that would appeal to a broader, more luxurious market while retaining Porsche's core performance ethos, the 928 was a technological tour de force for its era. It represented a radical reimagining of what a Porsche could be, prioritizing comfort, Grand Touring capabilities, and avant-garde design.
Design and Aesthetics
The exterior of the 1979 928 was a stark contrast to the air-cooled, rear-engined 911. Penned by Anatole Lapine, the design was distinctly European GT, characterized by its long, flowing hood, aerodynamic wedge shape, and distinctive pop-up headlights. The front end featured a smooth, integrated bumper with recessed grille openings, giving it a remarkably clean and futuristic appearance. The prominent, wide fenders housed a track that was considerably wider than its predecessors, contributing to its stable stance.
The rear of the car was equally unique, with a kamm-tail design that incorporated integrated taillights and a distinctive rear spoiler. The absence of a visible rear engine lid was a clear signal of the mechanical revolution happening beneath the skin. The overall aesthetic was one of sophistication and understated aggression, a departure from the raw, utilitarian charm of the 911.
Powertrain and Engineering
The heart of the 1979 928 was its groundbreaking powertrain. Forgoing the traditional rear-mounted flat-six, Porsche introduced a front-mounted, water-cooled V8 engine. This 4.5-liter (4,474 cc) V8, featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per bank, produced a healthy 219 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. The engine was transversely mounted, allowing for a more compact and balanced chassis.
A key engineering innovation was the "Weissach Axle" (or transaxle system). This sophisticated setup integrated the transmission and differential into a single unit at the rear of the car. This not only contributed to a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution but also facilitated a more sophisticated independent rear suspension design. The transaxle layout also freed up cabin space and improved weight distribution for better handling characteristics.
Initially, the 1979 928 was offered exclusively with a 3-speed automatic transmission. However, a 5-speed manual transmission became available later in the model year (though primarily for the European market initially), offering enthusiasts the purer driving experience.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the 1979 928 was designed to be a luxurious and comfortable space, catering to long-distance journeys. The cabin was significantly more spacious and opulent than the 911 of the era, featuring high-quality leather upholstery, plush carpeting, and a driver-focused dashboard.
The "control tower" style dashboard was a notable feature, with instruments and controls angled towards the driver. The most distinctive element was the integrated dashboard instrument cluster that moved with the steering column, ensuring optimal visibility of gauges regardless of steering wheel position. Amenities like air conditioning, power windows, and a premium sound system were standard, emphasizing its GT credentials. The rear seats, while present, were more suitable for occasional use or children, reflecting the car's primary focus on the front occupants.
Performance and Driving Experience
The 1979 928 was designed to be a fast and stable Grand Tourer, capable of effortless high-speed cruising. The V8 engine provided ample torque for strong acceleration, and the sophisticated suspension system, coupled with the near-perfect weight distribution, resulted in exceptional handling and stability, especially at speed. The power steering was precise, and the braking system, featuring disc brakes all around, was robust for the time.
While not as nimble or raw as the 911, the 928 offered a more refined and composed driving experience. It was a car that could devour miles with ease, offering a comfortable and exhilarating ride that appealed to a different kind of Porsche enthusiast.
Legacy and Significance
The 1979 Porsche 928 was a bold statement from Porsche. It demonstrated the company's willingness to innovate and explore new avenues while staying true to its performance heritage. While it never entirely replaced the beloved 911, the 928 carved out its own niche as a sophisticated, powerful, and technologically advanced Grand Tourer. It laid the groundwork for future front-engined, rear-wheel-drive Porsches and continues to be appreciated by enthusiasts for its unique design, engineering prowess, and its role in shaping the brand's evolution. The 1979 model represents the genesis of this ambitious and influential sports car.