The 1981 Porsche 928 5-Speed represents a unique era in Zuffenhausen history when the front-engine V-8 layout was intended to replace the 911. This specific Canadian-market example offers a fascinating story, having reportedly remained in storage from 1984 until 2021. Such long-term preservation has kept the car in a highly original state, though it required extensive work to return to the road. Recommissioning began in 2023 to address the typical aging of rubber and mechanical seals. The seller acquired the vehicle in February 2024 and transitioned it to California for further refinement. It now serves as a prime example of Porsche’s flagship grand tourer. The car balances vintage aesthetics with a series of modern mechanical updates for reliability. It stands as a testament to the 928’s enduring design and engineering prowess.
Platinum Metallic paint coats the sleek, galvanized body panels of this 1981 Porsche 928 5-Speed. This color, coded 655, highlights the futuristic lines that made the model a design icon in the early eighties. While the car presents beautifully, the seller notes minor paint chips and scuffs on the bumper covers. These small imperfections tell the story of a car that has lived a real life on the road. The exterior is equipped with a sunroof and the classic pop-up headlights that define the model’s silhouette. H4 headlight bulbs have been installed to provide better visibility during night-time canyon runs. A rear-window wiper and defroster ensure the car remains practical for various weather conditions. Every trim piece reinforces the high-end build quality Porsche established for its premier luxury coupe.
Phone-Dial Alloy Wheels and September 2025 Brake Service
The chassis of this 1981 Porsche 928 5-Speed rides on iconic 16-inch silver-finished phone-dial alloy wheels. These wheels are currently mounted with Pirelli Cinturato P7 tires featuring 2023 date codes for peace of mind. Under the current owner, the braking system received significant attention to ensure safety and performance. The brake booster was rebuilt in September 2025, and the master cylinder was recently replaced as well. Slotted front rotors provide improved heat dissipation during more aggressive driving maneuvers. Furthermore, the tie-rod ends were replaced in April 2024 to sharpen the steering response. This 928 handles with the precision one expects from a well-sorted transaxle Porsche. It remains a stable and confident platform for high-speed highway cruising or winding coastal roads.
A limited-slip differential helps manage power delivery through the rear wheels, enhancing traction in cornering. The suspension and braking components work in harmony to deliver a refined grand touring experience. Every mechanical update was performed to preserve the original driving dynamics while improving modern-day usability. The phone-dial wheels remain a favorite among enthusiasts for their period-correct and purposeful appearance. This Porsche does not just look the part; it is mechanically prepared for its next long-distance journey. The seller has ensured that the vital safety systems are refreshed and ready for regular use. Such thorough maintenance makes this 928 a standout choice in a market often filled with neglected examples. It is a car that invites the driver to actually use it as intended.
Brown Leather Interior with Rebuilt Automatic Climate Control
Inside the cabin, the 1981 Porsche 928 5-Speed features a rich brown leather upholstery on power-adjustable front seats. The folding rear seats provide additional storage flexibility for longer road trips or weekend getaways. While the interior shows its age with some loose headliner and hatchback leather, it remains a comfortable place to sit. Under the current ownership, the air-conditioning system was completely rebuilt to ensure cabin comfort. A Bluetooth-capable Blaupunkt Bremen SQR4 stereo was installed to provide modern audio connectivity. This unit maintains a vintage aesthetic while allowing for seamless smartphone integration. Cruise control and an analog clock remain functional, adding to the period-correct luxury feel. The leather-wrapped steering wheel frames a clear 250-km/h speedometer and a 7,600-rpm tachometer.
Every gauge in the binnacle provides critical information, including oil pressure and voltage readings. The six-digit odometer currently displays 23k kilometers, though total mileage is technically unknown due to a 1982 replacement. Despite this, the condition of the touchpoints suggests a car that has seen limited use over the decades. The cabin design was ahead of its time, featuring an adjustable pod that moves the gauges with the steering column. This ensures a clear view of the instruments regardless of the driver’s height or seat position. It is a driver-focused environment that prioritizes long-distance comfort and visibility. The brown leather provides a warm and inviting contrast to the Platinum Metallic exterior finish. It remains a sophisticated space that reflects Porsche’s commitment to high-end touring excellence.
4.5L V-8 Performance and 5-Speed Manual Transaxle Specs
This 1981 Porsche 928 5-Speed is powered by a 4.5-liter V-8 engine factory rated at 231 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. In 2023, the timing belt, water pump, radiator, and vacuum hoses were replaced to ensure cooling and timing reliability. Power is sent to the rear through a rear-mounted five-speed manual transaxle, creating a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution. The clutch hydraulic line and cylinders were replaced in September 2025 for smooth gear transitions. Additional updates include a new battery, coolant expansion tank, and various electrical relays to maintain peak operating condition. This mechanical package allows the 928 to reach high cruising speeds with effortless stability and a unique V-8 soundtrack. It provides a visceral and engaging connection that automatic versions of the same era cannot match.
1981 Porsche 928 5-Speed Summary
The 1981 Porsche 928 5-Speed is a classic that continues to gain appreciation for its unique design and grand touring capability. This Canadian-market survivor benefits from a documented history and a recent mechanical overhaul. The combination of Platinum Metallic paint and a five-speed manual transaxle makes it a rare find for Mopar or European car collectors alike. It includes a Porsche Production Specifications certificate that verifies its factory origins and production date of May 1981. With a clean Carfax report and a clean California title, the provenance is straightforward and transparent. The car has successfully passed California emissions, proving its mechanical health is up to modern standards.
Potential buyers will appreciate the extensive list of replaced parts that address the common failure points of the 928 platform. This vehicle is no longer a project but a well-sorted driver that can be enjoyed immediately. The 928 community values cars with manual gearboxes and limited-slip differentials, both of which are present here. While minor cosmetic needs remain, the mechanical foundation is exceptionally strong. It serves as a reminder of Porsche’s ambition to redefine the sports car in the early 1980s. This 928 is ready for its next caretaker to add many more kilometers to the clock. It remains an iconic symbol of engineering ambition and timeless luxury. This is an opportunity to own a piece of Porsche’s transaxle legacy. Lot F340 is a highlight of the weekend block that collectors should monitor closely.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
