Running GT Car: 1982 Porsche 928

The Porsche 928 is one of two things: it’s either the cheapest entry point into legitimate, GT car ownership, or a pathway to potential aggravation and expensive parts. It really depends on where you are on the pathway to project car ownership: if it’s your first one, excitement will likely drive the purchasing decision, which is an entirely fair sentiment especially when the car in question is a V8-powered coupe that looks like it escaped from a Jetsons episode. The seller of this 1982 928 listed here on craigslist is a Portland, OR-area independent European car dealer with a knack for finding good-quality specimens.

When the 928 was conceived, there was little else like it on the road. Even today, the shape has never come close to being replicated. The wide stance with the curved front and rear sections, combined with wide expanses of glass and accentuated by the pop-up headlights make it one of Porsche’s most polarizing designs. For a company that rarely deviated from a standard sports car recipe, the powerful 928 was a potentially defining moment. As it would turn out, the 911 wasn’t going anywhere despite the impressive stat sheet the 928 had on paper. This example has been updated with later turbo twist-style wheels, but I’d swap on a set of classic manhole covers.

Inside, you’ll find classic 2+2 seating, though the rear seat may not be livable for long trips. The interior shows signs of wear-and-tear which isn’t necessarily a bad thing; this simply looks like a car that was driven. This is one of those interiors you could easily live with for a spell, but the seats likely need some attention if cracked and frayed leather isn’t your jam. The dash looks to be in good order but I’d want a clean bill of health on electronics and A/C before committing to buy. The automatic transmission may suit the V8’s personality, but a manual is far more desirable.

1982 marked the final year of the 4.5L V8 before Porsche bumped up displacement to a healthy 5.0L. 231 horsepower and 265 lb.-ft. of torque is nothing to sneeze at, but it may be somewhat tepid with two pedals. However, if you like the idea of a true GT car that can gobble up highway miles while still having more than enough passing power, the 928 could be worth a look. Sadly, I’ve found fewer and fewer shops have the resources to work on slightly obscure models like this, so I’d have a specialist in mind to assist with upkeep before taking the plunge. The asking price is $13,500, and thanks to Barn Finds reader Curvette for the tip.