Searching for Porsche 928 parts can be a challenge, but finding a dedicated parts car opens up a world of possibilities for restoration enthusiasts and DIY mechanics. In this guide, we’ll explore where to find Porsche 928 parts cars, what to look for, and how these vehicles can help you save money while keeping your classic sports car on the road.
Porsche 928 Parts Car: Comprehensive Shopping Guide
Porsche 928 Parts Car Variations and Applications
The Porsche 928 was produced from 1978 to 1995, with several model updates throughout its lifetime. Finding the right donor “parts car” or individual component requires understanding these variations. Below is a comparison table outlining key types and applications for 928 parts and typical “parts cars” used for personal car restoration or repair.
| Variant/Model | Production Years | Engine Type | Transmission Options | Body/Cabin Variants | Common Unique Parts | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 928 (Original) | 1978-1982 | 4.5L V8 SOHC | 3/4-sp Automatic, 5-sp Manual | Early dash, short bumper | Early cross braces, shifters | More early-only parts, rare |
| 928 S | 1983-1986 | 4.7L V8 SOHC | 4-sp Automatic, 5-sp Manual | Standard/Sport Seats | S-model brakes, S-style trim | Many drivetrain upgrades |
| 928 S4 / GT / GTS | 1987-1995 | 5.0/5.4L V8 DOHC | 4-sp Automatic, 5-sp Manual | Updated dash, late bumpers | S4/GTS spoilers, electronics | Most “modern” 928s |
Compatibility
Selecting a Porsche 928 parts car or specific replacement parts requires careful attention to compatibility.
Body and Chassis
- Model Year Variance: Body panels, trim, and bumpers changed several times. Early cars (1978–1982) feature shorter “Euro” style bumpers and unique sheet metal. Later cars (S4/GTS) have reinforced bodies, integrated spoilers, and different mounting points.
- Structural Parts: Crossmembers, braces, and underbody components may only fit exact model years or require modification.
- Interior: Seats, dash layouts, and electronic modules changed, especially after 1985. Early cars have analog dials for climate control, while later ones feature electronic modules.
Engine & Drivetrain
- Engine Generations: Swapping complete engines is possible within SOHC (78–86) or DOHC (87–95) groupings, but harnesses and ECUs require compatibility checks.
- Transmissions: Both manual and automatic options exist; mounts and linkages may differ subtly between early and late models.
- Electronics: Ignition modules, fuse boxes, and sensors changed over time—always match part numbers when possible.
Common Parts with Differences
- Shift Handles/Levers: Early automatic or manual shift levers are not always compatible with late-model shifter designs.
- Lighting: Early license plate and courtesy lights used metal Hella housings, replaced by plastic in later years.
- Interior Trim: Mounting mechanisms for panels and switches may differ, even if aesthetically similar.
Tip: Always cross-reference Porsche part numbers and, ideally, acquire VIN/chassis code info for both your vehicle and donor to ensure a successful fit.
Function
The function of a Porsche 928 parts car or its components is to supply genuine, often discontinued (NLA — No Longer Available) parts necessary for restoration or repair.
What Can a Parts Car or Used Parts Supply?
- Major Mechanicals: Engines, transmissions, axles, and suspension arms. Ideal for engine swaps or rebuilding.
- Body Panels: Doors, fenders, bumpers, hoods, hatch glass—especially valuable if new old stock is unobtainable.
- Interior Components: Dashboards, seat frames, console plastics, shifter assemblies, switches, and unique trim.
- Electrical/Electronic Modules: Instrument clusters, ECUs, relays, and courtesy lighting—often expensive or rare new.
- Wheels and Accessories: Original wheels, unique narrow/phone-dial alloys, hubcaps.
Why Use a Dedicated Parts Car?
- Complete Donor: Offers access to a wide variety of matching parts, often at substantially lower cost than buying each component individually.
- Originality: Ensures period-correct restoration with matching interior and exterior components.
- Discontinued Parts: Many 928 parts, especially for early years, are no longer produced by Porsche or aftermarket companies.
Installation Tips
Whether you’re harvesting parts from a donor or installing purchased used/refurbished components, attention to detail is vital.
Preparing for Removal
- Assess Overall Condition: Rust, accident damage, or previous modifications can affect the usability of parts. Inspect donor for straight bodywork and intact mounting points.
- Photograph and Label: As you dismantle, photograph each stage and label bolts/plates for easier reinstallation.
Handling Key Components
- Mechanical Parts
- When removing engines/transmissions, use correct lifting gear and brace the subframe.
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Replace all consumables—gaskets, seals, and fluids—before fitting reused parts.
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Electricals
- Carefully disconnect battery before working on electrics.
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Test ECUs, relays, and lighting out of the car if possible to avoid repeated installs.
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Interior Trim
- Use proper trim removal tools to avoid breaking delicate clips and mounts.
- Clean and treat leather/vinyl with appropriate products before installation.
General Advice
- Keep Original Hardware: Rust-free screws, nuts, and plastic clips can be surprisingly difficult to source—save all you can!
- Compare Old and New: Hold new/used parts up to the originals before final fitment, checking for subtle differences in fit and finish.
Maintenance Advice
Keeping your Porsche 928 running smoothly with parts from a donor or used source demands ongoing attention.
After Installation
- Torque Specs: Use factory torque settings, especially for structural (crossmembers, braces) and critical (brakes, suspension) parts.
- Fluids and Filters: Always use new oil, coolant, and filters after installing major mechanicals.
- Test All Functions: After electrical installations, test every feature—lights, warning buzzers, switches—before closing up trim.
Care of Used/Original Parts
- Regular Cleaning: Clean soft trim, panels, and electrical connectors regularly to avoid corrosion or degradation.
- Monitor Wear Points: Suspension bushings, ball joints, and mounts often age faster than the underlying component—keep an eye out for cracking or excessive movement.
- Stay on Top of Lubrication: Moving parts such as shifter mechanisms, door locks, and window guides benefit from occasional lubrication.
Storage of Spare Parts
- Climate Control: Store unused or future-use components in a dry location to prevent rust or mold.
- Inventory: Keep a log of what you have and the condition—this helps avoid double-buying or neglecting critical spares.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Choosing the Right Porsche 928 Parts Car
- Match Your Model: If you have a 1978–1982 car, try to find an early donor; for later S4 or GTS models, prioritize similar years.
- Check for Paperwork: Legitimate, complete donor cars sometimes have titles—if not, ensure the parts are legal to acquire.
- Inspect for Hidden Damage: Favor cars with cosmetic issues over structural or serious mechanical problems.
Using Donor and Used Components Wisely
- Plan Ahead: Make a list of all needed parts—some things are easier to remove with others out of the way.
- Part Out Remainder: Consider selling unneeded components from your donor to offset costs.
Where to Buy
- Specialists vs. General Parts: Specialist 928 shops maintain accurate inventories, but larger retailers may offer better prices on service items like filters or belts.
- Watch Out for “Universal”: Many electrical and trim parts appear similar but differ between years or markets. Be wary of “universal fit” claims.
Maximizing Your Investment
- Quality Testing: Always check the function of crucial parts (starters, ECUs, relays) off the car before wasting time on installation.
- Refurb When Possible: Some donor parts benefit from professional restoration—seat re-trimming, replating hardware, or powdercoating structural parts.
Porsche 928 Parts and Parts Car Features Comparison Table
Below is a comparison of selected essential Porsche 928 parts types, with technical features and year/model applicability.
| Part/Component | Years Covered | Feature/Material | Direct Fit (Y/N) | Notes and Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Shift Handle | 83–84 | Black leather, push-button | Yes for 83–84 | Fits LHD and RHD, NLA from Porsche |
| Manual Shift Lever Arm | 78–84 | Yellow-zinc, new bushings/straps | Yes for 78–84 | Longer “period-correct” lever |
| Steel Cross Brace | 78–79 (early) | Powdercoated steel, new hardware | Yes for early 928 | Different from later braces |
| 4-Spoke Horn Pad | 80–82 US | Black, original mounting snaps | Yes for listed | NLA, check for intact springs |
| License Plate Light | 78–95 (set of 2) | Hella, early metal construction | Yes (most 928s) | Early metal, later replaced by plastic |
| Interior Courtesy Light | 78–95 | Hella with bulb | Yes (all) | Small design differences |
| ECU/Ignition Module | 78–84 US, 78–83 RoW | Bosch, tested working | Yes as coded | Different for DOHC variants |
| Sunroof Rail Guide Set | 78–95 | Metal/plastic, hardware included | Yes (all 928) | Early vs. late takes may differ |
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Conclusion
Owning and maintaining a Porsche 928 is a rewarding, yet sometimes challenging, experience—especially as parts become rare or discontinued. Leveraging a dedicated 928 parts car or carefully chosen used/refurbished components is often the key to restoring or maintaining your classic. Pay close attention to year/model compatibility, supply chains, and the specific needs of your car. With careful sourcing, detailed installation, and regular maintenance, you can keep your Porsche 928 running—and looking—like new for years to come.
FAQ
- What is a Porsche 928 parts car and why is it valuable?
A Porsche 928 parts car is a complete but typically non-running 928 used as a source of original parts for restoration or repair. It’s valuable because many 928-specific components are discontinued, expensive new, or only available as used items.
- How do I ensure that parts from a donor car are compatible with my 928?
Always check part numbers and year/model references. The 928 underwent several changes over its production run, so fitment can vary greatly—especially for bodywork, electronics, and interior trim.
- Can I use a later 928 (GTS) as a donor for my early car?
Some mechanical parts will interchange, but GTS models feature updated bodywork, electronics, and engine components. It’s usually better to match as closely as possible with your specific year/model.
- Is it better to buy individual parts or a whole parts car?
For complete restorations, a whole parts car often provides better value and ensures matching components. However, if you only need a few items, sourcing tested, high-quality individual parts saves time and effort.
- What are the most frequently needed used parts for 928s?
Commonly sourced used parts include body panels, switchgear, headlights/taillights, shifter assemblies, interior plastics, and unique engine hardware.
- Are early or late 928 parts harder to find?
Early 928 (1978–1982) parts are generally more difficult to locate, especially unique trim and hardware. Later models share more in common with mass-market Porsche components.
- What risks are there in using used electrical components?
Used ECUs, sensors, and relays can fail unexpectedly due to age or poor storage. Always test these components before installation and consider buying from reputable sellers who offer functional guarantees.
- How can I tell if a donor body’s structural parts are usable?
Check for accident damage, rust (especially around frame rails and battery tray), and correct mounting points. Avoid cars with significant corrosion or visible deformation.
- What installation mistakes should I avoid?
Common errors include over-tightening mounting hardware, mixing up electrical connectors, and failing to prepare replacement parts with new seals, gaskets, or lubricants.
- How should I store spare 928 parts for future use?
Store clean, dry, and—if possible—inside their original packaging. Use labeled containers for small hardware. For seats, panels, and trim, a climate-controlled environment is best to avoid warping or mold.
By following the advice in this guide and staying methodical in your approach, you’ll maximize the success—and satisfaction—of your Porsche 928 restoration or maintenance project.