Identification

Technical Information and Restoration Parts for the 928

Model Identification

Due to mid year changes, the building of a U.S. and ROW (Rest of the World) models, the introduction of the 32 valve engine and other special order items and options it can be difficult to determine exactly what year and model a car is - especially for the new car buyer. While not a comprehensive list the key points are provided to aid in easy identification.

US vs. Euro

Probably the biggest single confusion is the difference between the U.S. and foreign models. Due to EPA and DOT restrictions Porsche found it necessary and economical to build two different models. In the early years 1978-79 the differences were mostly cosmetic, but later there were significant differences with the Euro or ROW (Rest of the World) models having higher performance. Since some of these cars came into the U.S. through gray market channels, it is important to know the difference. By 1987 Porsche began making a worldwide car although there were still a few minor differences.

Physical Differences - The Euro model has the following differences:

	Marker lights between the front tires and the front door.
	A fog light in place of the rubber bumper on the rear
	Headlight adjuster motors
	German gauges and warning lights
	Different fog lights

Performance Differences - Porsche introduced a number of performance enhancements in the Euro that were not in the U.S. model. These are basically done by year.

	CIS Injection The CIS injection system was retained from 1980-83 where the U.S. model had electronic injection. The is easily identified by metal gas lines going to the injectors. The CIS System is a simpler and higher performing injection system.
	S Model The S model introduced with a 4.7 liter engine was introduced in 1980-83 in the Euro. Best Identified by the engine number of the front of the block - 28/11 for the five speed and 28/12 - auto. The Euro model in these years also came with the 4.5 liter engine so the numbers should be checked.
	LH-Injection The 1984-86 Euro version retained the 16 valve 4/7 liter engine but added the more sophisticated LH injection system. This was the first Electronic Injection System in the Euro model and can best be identified by the dual distributor with the old style "Spyder" intake manifold.
	ABS - Anti Lock Brakes were introduced in 1984 for the Euro model.

1986.5 U.S. Model

Mid year in 1986 Porsche added S4 multi piston brakes and suspension to the 928. This starts with production number 1000. The 1986 also had ABS (anti lock brakes) for for all serial numbers - this is often confused as being part of the mid year upgrades.