The 928 GTS is Porsche's preeminent Grand Touring model. Since its introduction at the Geneva Auto Show in 1977, the 928 has established benchmarks for all other manufacturers of luxury GTs. At the time of its debut, the 928, with its all-aluminum engine, extensive use of aluminum alloy in the bodywork, and transaxle layout, set new standards for the state of the art in automotive engineering. Since then, continuous development has kept the 928 at the forefront of technology. Yet time has not changed its character as a high-performance GT of the first order. More than a decade and a half after it changed automotive thinking, the firstclass comfort, features and appointments of the 1995 Porsche 928 GTS, coupled with a powerful engine offering remarkable tractability under all speed and load conditions, bear witness to the 928's status in the world of luxury high-performance automobiles.

The 928 GTS, with its larger, more powerful engine, was introduced in 1993 as a 1994 model. In addition to engineering refinements, changes included restyled seats and wheels and new exterior color choices. The optional automatic transmission, available at no additional cost in place of the five-speed, includes a dynamic kickdown feature. This permits kickdowns based on the speed and degree of throttle opening.

Over the years, 928 development has concentrated on engineering. The most significant development changes have affected the engine and suspension. The original 4.5 liter, 219 horsepower engine of 1978 has evolved into the 5.4 liter, 345 horsepower powerplant of today. Porsche's multilink ''Weissach'' toe-correcting rear suspension, a feature of the 928 from the very beginning, marked a departure in suspension design. The 1984 928 S was the first Porsche to off er anti-lock brakes (ABS) as an option. ABS became standard equipment on the 928 S in 1986, and is now standard on all Porsche models. The original one-piston brake calipers of the 928 were replaced by four-piston units in 1986. Porsche's electronically controlled limited slip differential, the PSD, capable of varying lockup between zero and 100 percent, has been part of every 928 made since the 1990 model year. The PSD increases tr;action and stability under all driving conditions.

5.4 LITER ENGINE

Since its debut, the all-aluminum powerplant of the Porsche 928 has been one of the most advanced VB engines in the world. Continued development over the years has increased engine size by 20 percent, to 5.4 liters in the 928 GTS. Power has increased even more, from 219 to the present 345 horsepower at 5,700 rpm. Torque is 369 ft. lbs. at 4,250 rpm. This dry statistic hides the fact that the torque curve of the 5.4 liter engine is remarkably flat. Fully 80 percent of peak torque is available in a broad band from 1,000 to 6,000 rpm. This results in smooth, effortless acceleration even from very low speeds in high gear, conditions that would place undue strain on many competing engines. The low rotational mass of the 928 engine, a characteristic bred by Porsche's racing experience, allows the engine to rev freely and quickly to its 6,600 rpm redline. This is an unusually high limit for a large VB engine.

The 928 GTS employs a Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection system, based on a hot-wire air mass sensor for precise fuel metering combined with low exhaust emissions. The Porsche 928 GTS uses a resonance induction system to improve airflow into the cylinders and thereby ensure improved engine response across a broad range of engine rpm. Dual knock sensors probe the limits of the engine's performance, and permit the fuel injection and ignition systems to dynamically adapt to rapidly changing conditions. A pair of metal substrate threeway catalytic converters with oxygen sensors ensures the cleanest possible exhaust.

TRANSMISSION

The 928 GTS transmits its power through a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transaxle. The transaxle is located at the rear of the car, instead of immediately behind the engine as is the case with most front-engine, rear-drive cars. The engine and transmission are rigidly connected by a steel tube, which contains and supports the driveshaft. This design ensures uniform weight distribution and improved handling and stability.

The optional automatic transmission, available as a no-cost alternative to the five-speed, incorporates a dynamic kickdown feature. At speeds above 34 mph, downshifts can be initiated by rapid throttle movement, depending on the speed and degree to which the throttle is opened. Drivers of the automatic-equipped 1995 Porsche 928 GTS are able to quickly select a lower gear by rapidly moving the throttle pedal, without actually going to sustained full throttle as is the case for conventional kickdown. As a result, the driver has greater control over the transmission without resorting to manual mode, and without the fuel economy penalty incurred by full-throttle kickdowns.

The transaxle contains not only the transmission, but also Porsche's unique electronicallycontrolled PSD limited slip differential. The PSD uses the wheel sensors of the anti-lock braking system to determine if a rear tire is slipping. Differential lockup is then modulated between zero and 100 percent to reduce wheel spin. The PSD differential improves vehicle stability under all conditions - hard acceleration, braking, and cornering. This is in contrast to other systems which are not capable of monitoring tire slip during deceleration. Under slippery conditions, traction is improved and the vehicle has a more secure grip on the road.

To ensure long life, both manual and automatic transmissions employ remote transmission oil coolers.

SUSPENSION

The Porsche 928 GTS continues to use Porsche's innovative ''Weissach'' rear axle, which was pioneered on the original 928 of 1978. The Weissach axle design employs upper transverse links, lower semi-trailing control arms, and adjustable coil springs over gas pressure shock absorbers. The key to the Weissach axle is a flexible link in each semi-trailing arm, which adds a toe correcting characteristic under high cornering loads. In effect, the Weissach rear axle design offered a form of '1our-wheel steering" long before the concept gained popularity. The toe correcting feature leads to increased stability at the handling limit and in critical situations, such as when entering turns at unexpectedly excessive speed. An 0.89 inch (22.5 mm) stabilizer bar completes the rear suspension package. The front suspension consists of unequal length aluminum alloy control arms, telescoping shock absorbers, coil springs, and a 1.1 inch (28 mm) hollow stabilizer bar. The 928 GTS is equipped with large 17-inch wheels, with generous air openings to ensure optimum brake cooling. For precise control combined with the greatest possible comfort, the Porsche 928 GTS employs force-sensitive hydraulically assisted rack and pinion steering.

BRAKES

In keeping with Porsche's tradition of providing braking performance to match the high levels ~ of acceleration possible with its products, the 928 GTS uses a braking system unmatched by any other GT. The front 12.68 inch (322 mm) and rear 11.77 inch (299 mm) disc brakes, each with a four-piston caliper, are taken directly from the 911 Turbo. Like every 1995 Porsche, the 928 GTS has anti-lock brakes as standard equipment.

The key to high-performance braking is heat management. The energy represented by the speed of the car must be converted to heat and transferred to the surrounding air as quickly as possible. Managing this heat transfer requires careful design of the mechanical parts of the brake system, as well as the bodywork ducting of the car.

Porsche's design parameters for optimal brake system performance include the following:

• temperature-resistant engine piston alloys are used for brake caliper pistons • brake fluid is kept at a lower temperature by the large radiating surface of the calipers • wear-resistant, asbestos-free brake pads provide the highest possible resistance to fading • use of DOT 4-200 brake fluid, with a higher wet boiling point for greater resistance to fading and extended intervals between brake fluid changes

High-performance brake system design includes such elements as cooling air ducted to the brake discs, and detail design of the ventilated rotors. Porsche's brake discs employ spiral- shaped internal cooling ribs, with additional half-ribs to radiate heat away from the rubbing surfaces. Porsche has found the best compromise in underbody ducting in the nose with a flexible spoiler attached to the lower suspension arms. A deflector plate attached to the suspension directs air through the brake splash shield.

Even wheel design is important. At high speeds the rotation of the wheels contributes significantly to forced-air cooling of the brakes. At low speeds with little airflow, heat radiation from the spokes helps to cool the discs.

PERFORMANCE

The sophisticated engine technology of the 928 GTS results in sports car performance combined with refined, effortless power in everyday driving, and relaxed cruising capability. The 928 GTS will accelerate to 60 mph in less than 5.5 seconds with a manual transmission. When fitted with an automatic transmission, acceleration to 60 mph takes just a fraction of a second longer, 5~6 seconds. Both versions, with manual or automatic transmission, will achieve a top track speed of 171 mph. (Performance data is provided for comparison purposes only. Porsche recommends obeying all speed laws.)

INTERIOR DESIGN

The 1995 928 GTS, like its predecessors, emphasizes luxury and convenience in harmony with effortless performance. Like the drivetrain and exterior details, interior and comfort features of the 928 line have been continuously improved. Many items initially available as options have become standard equipment, culminating in today's fully equipped 928 GTS.

The 928 GTS features a fully appointed interior with leather seats front and rear. Electrically operated front seats, with three memory settings for the driver's seat and outside mirrors, and a fully automatic heating, ventilating and air conditioning system ensure that the occupants of the 928 GTS can travel great distances in total comfort and arrive at their destination relaxed.

The instrument pod, which adjusts vertically in conjunction with the steering column, includes a driver information system capable of monitoring 22 different functions. Warning messages are displayed in three levels of priority. The large, easily read display incorporates trip computer functions.

PORSCHE AND LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN

Many car makers tout their lightweight design or their extensive use of aluminum. For Porsche, lightweight materials do not bring their greatest benefits in advertising campaigns. For decades, aluminum, titanium and composites have been the ideal materials for car components - and for building winning race cars.

From the very beginning, Porsche and racing went hand in hand, and many Porsche racers of the 1950s and early 1960s, along with the production cars derived from them, enjoyed extensive use of aluminum. Aluminum, however, is not ideally suited for all applications. Porsche's engineers consider appropriate application of lightweight materials to be more important than mere substitution of aluminum for steel.

Porsche has pioneered many aluminum concepts in modern automotive design, and continues its extensive use of light alloy for body components, drivetrains, and suspension parts. Aluminum is not only light and strong, but also provides recycling benefits.

• The 928 has had aluminium fender, doors and engine hoods from its inception. • All non-moving engine parts are aluminium alloy - engine block, cylinder heads and oil pan. • All 928s since 1985 have magnesium intake man if olds and valve covers. • Since its introduction as a 1978 model, the 928 has had aluminum brake and, for manual transmission, clutch pedals. • Even less significant items are made of aluminum to save on overall weight. For example, every Porsche 928 ever made has been fitted with an aluminum jack .

SAFETY

At Porsche, safety begins with a car's driving characteristics. The dynamic behavior of Porsche sports cars is the result of advanced research and testing, as well as experience on the racetrack. The results ara uncomprornised design of suspension, steering, and brakes. Safety considerations are also reflected in the comfort, excellent visibility, and ergonomically-correct design of Porsche sports cars.

Safety is not.a new concept at Porsche. For example, since 1973 every Porsche 911 has been equipped with door reinforcements for increased priotection in side impacts. The 1995 Porsche models meet 1997 side-impact standards. In 1990, Porsche was the first auto manufacturer to equip all of its products with anti-lock brakes. Also in 1990, Porsche was the first manufacturer, domestic or import, to equip every car sold in North America with driver and front passenger airbags as standard equipment.

In addition to airbags, 1995 Porsche 928 GTS provides three-point safety belts. for both front and rear seat passengers. Airbags and safety belts repfesent just one level of protection for the occupants. The car's structure is also designed for safety, with a rigid cage to surround the occupants and deformable crush zones to absorb impacts. Porsche was the first manufacturer to build car bodies using sheet steel galvanied on both sides. This not only preserves the appearance of the car and the owner's investmemt, but also maintains the built-in crashworthiness of the car.

PORSCHE RACING : A DEVELOPMENT LABORATORY

Porsche is unique among car manufacturers in the extent to which it uses the racetrack as a development laboratory for its production cars. Many components and systems of Porsche road cars were tested and proven on the racetrack before they became part of the assembly process.

The Porsche 928, although conceived as a grand touring car, has left its mark in the rnotorsports record books. In 1986, a completely stock Porsche 928 84 driven by the late Al Holbert set new records at the Bonneville salt flats. Holbert covered the flying mile at 171 .11 O mph. The trap speed for the flying kilometer was 171.92 mph. These records proved the 928 to be the fastest catalyst-equipped production car in the world.

At road racing events across North America, the 928 is the official emergency rapid response vehicle of tne International Motor Sports Association (IMSA). The 928 combines sports car performance with the large load-carrying capability needed to transport heavy safety equipment such as high-capacity fire extinguishers and the ''Jaws of Life'' to the scene of a motor racing mishap. The powerful engine and sports car handling of the 928 enable it to go out on the track and move quickly to the scene without impeding the race car traffic.

PORSCHE, SPORTS CARS AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Porsche is not only a pioneer in high technology and high performance, but also an industry leader im environmental responsibility. This begins with building cars to last. Of all the Porsches built since 1948, it is estimated that 80 percent are still in service. Approximately 250,000 Porsches are registered in North America. Part of that longevity comes from the fully galvanized bodywork of the Porsche 928 GTS. Its durability has been a factor in maintaining Porsche's traditionally high resale values and unparalleled owner loyalty.

During development of the Porsche 928 GTS, the goal of recyclability of a high proportion of materials used in producing the car was given priority and achieved. If and when a Porsche reaches the end of its usefwl life, labeling of various plastic components will make it easier to reprocess parts, and will help to put plastics back into consumer products, not in landfills.

Despite their high perforirmance, Porsche cars are among the cleanest on the road. Highly effective three-way catalytic converters, oxygen sensors, and engine management systems have long been part of the Porsche pedigree. All Porsche models are equipped with systems that fulfill the most stringent exhaust standards worldwide.

Growing concern about the possible effects of chlorofluorocarbons, including the CFC-12 refrigerants used in automotive air conditioning systems, on the earth's ozone layer led Porsche to introduce a CFC-free refrigerant, HFC-134a, beginning with its 1993 models.

SPECIAL OPTIONS AND EUROPEAN DELIVERY

Porsche owners who would like to further personalize their cars can take advantage of Porsche's special options program. Porsche offers a wide range of special order items to make each car uniquely individual. These include paint to match any sample color and leather to duplicate any sample shade. Virtually every interior item may be ordered with factory-applied leather trim.

The Porsche 928 GTS may be ordered with the Porsche Pocket Commander cellular telephone. This is the only telephone certified by Porsche's Weissach research and development center to be free of interference with the vehicle's electronic systems, and may be retrofitted to older Porsches. The Pocket Commander may be installed at the port of entry with an exclusive center console designed by Porsche, or at the dealership without the console. The phone carries a two-year limited warranty.

Every Porsche may be ordered through participating North American dealers for European delivery. This program offers an unforgettable driving experience, enabling the buyer to sample the high-speed motorways and scenic, winding secondary roads which gave birth to the Porsche legend. The European delivery program also provides substantial price savings and can include special features such as Porsche factory tours.

WARRANTY

Thanks to decades of experience building solid, durable high-performance cars, Porsche's warranty coverage is among the broadest of any sports car manufacturer. Each Porsche is covered by a two-year new vehicle bumper-to-bumper limited warranty with unlimited mileage, which includes the Porsche roadside assistance program. The fully galvanized body and 26-step paint and anti-corrosion process enable Porsche to warrant each car against rust perforation for ten years and unlimited mileage. This protection is unmatched by any other sports car manufacturer. In addition, the paintwork carries a three-year limited warranty.

Porsche also otters a one-year limited warranty on qualifying 1986 and newer pre-owned vehicles sold by authorized Porsche dealers. The pre-owned warranty includes the Porsche roadside assistance program.

In addition to the extensive warranty coverage of Porsche cars, Porsche also warrants parts and accessories for two years and unlimited mileage. For parts and accessories installed by authorized Porsche dealers, labor costs are also covered.

LEASING AND FINANINCIG

Porsche Credit Corporation offers attractive leasing, financing, and balloon paymen plans for new and used Porsche sports car. The "Porsche Preferred Lease" program is available for new Porsche sports cars and for 1990-1994 pre-owned cars . The lease term can be as long as 60 months. Finance terms of up to 84 month are available. The "Porsche Options" program combines the economies of leasing with the benfits of ownership for new Porsches as well as 1990-1994 pre-owned Porsche. Certain programs may not be available in all 50 states.

Porsche Credit Corporation now offers European delivery financing and the "Porsche Options" balloon payment program to meet the needs of U.S. customers who wish to take delivery of their new Porsche at the factory in Germany. The "Porsche Preferred Lease" program is not available for European delivery purchaser.

These financial alternatives allow more American drivers to enjoy the thrill of the Porsche experience, an experience which draws on Porsche's legendary heritage as the maker of both the world's finest performance automobiles and some of the most innovative and successful cars in the history of automobile racing,