A Glimpse at the 1987 Porsche 928 S4: A Californian Gem with a Story
Picture this: a 1987 Porsche 928 S4 that has loyally traversed the sun-kissed roads of California since its birth. It’s like an automotive fairy tale, isn’t it? Acquired by the current seller in 2024, this beauty has galloped through 80,000 miles of adventure. Under the hood, a 5.0-liter DOHC V8 roars to life, married to a five-speed dog-leg manual transaxle. Draped in the elegant hue of Grand Prix White, it flaunts a Linen interior. This ride doesn’t just drive; it turns every journey into an experience, thanks to its limited-slip differential, sunroof, polished 16” aluminum wheels, and sporty coilover suspension. And with power seats, a 12-way driver’s seat with lumbar support, and chilly R134a-based air conditioning, it’s luxury on wheels. Included with the sale are service records, vintage manufacturer’s literature, and a spotless California title, all primed for the next adventure.
Exterior Features
This car doesn’t just wear pop-up headlights and integrated fog lights—it owns them. Power mirrors, a sunroof, a flip-up rear spoiler, and a rear window wiper complete its repertoire. However, February 2021 did bring a bit of drama in the form of “minor damage” as reported by Carfax. A parking lot mishap led to some right-front corner repairs, but hey, what story doesn’t have a few bumps?
Wheels and Suspension
Rolling on 16” polished aluminum wheels adorned with the iconic Porsche crest centers, the 928 S4 is a vision in motion, thanks to its Toyo tires. It rides smoothly on Sport coilover suspension, coupled with front and rear stabilizer bars, and it’s equipped with vented disc brakes at each corner. Back in 2018, the axle boots had a makeover while the steering rack was rebuilt in 2020, ensuring that the drive stays as thrilling as ever.
Interior Luxuries
Step inside, and you’re greeted by a Linen color scheme that whispers sophistication. The power front seats and light gray leather-trimmed rear bucket seats offer comfort fit for royalty. The driver’s seat boasts 12-way adjustment and lumbar support, underlining the thoughtful design. An Alpine head unit and factory alarm system enhance security and entertainment, while custom speakers wrapped in Porsche-sourced vinyl deliver exceptional sound. The updated air conditioning system now utilizes R134a refrigerant for optimal cooling. A set of black Lloyd floor mats, along with the factory floor mats, are all part of the package.
Driver’s Instrumentation
Behind the leather-wrapped steering wheel lies a realm of VDO instrumentation, including a 180-mph speedometer, a tachometer, and comprehensive gauges for oil pressure, coolant temperature, voltage, and fuel level. The six-digit odometer boasts 80,000 miles, a testament to its journey, with about 600 miles added under current ownership.
Engine Details
The heart of the beast—a 5.0-liter DOHC V8 featuring LH-Jetronic fuel injection, originally rated at 316 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. In 2018, it received upgrades like a new timing belt, fuel injectors, spark plugs, motor mount, and distributor cap and rotor. Fast forward to 2025, fresh oil and a new fuel line were the latest additions. While there’s a spot on the intake manifold showing signs of finish peeling, this doesn’t detract from its formidable performance.
Transmission and Differential
Power from the V8 finds its way to the rear wheels through a five-speed dog-leg manual transaxle, coupled with a limited-slip differential, ensuring a dynamic driving experience.
Option Decoding
- L908 – Grand Prix White
- C03 – California version
- 158 – Cassette radio – Blaupunkt Reno SQR 46
- 220 – Locking Differential
- 302 – Model designation on rear end
- 474 – Sport shock absorbers
- 481 – Manual transmission
- 490 – Hi-Fi sound system
- 494 – Additional amplifier
- 533 – Anti-theft device
- 570 – Rear air conditioning
- 586 – Lumbar support – left seat
- 650 – Sunroof
The Carfax report doesn’t shy away from revealing an open recall and reminders of the February 2021 accident. But in the world of classic cars, these little tales are part of what makes the journey remarkable.