Is This 1982 Porsche 928 at $21,500 the Classic Car Deal of a Lifetime?

In the world of classic cars, there are few names as evocative as Porsche. And when it comes to the 1982 Porsche 928, lovers of the marque have a hot topic to debate – particularly when one pops up on the market bearing a price tag of $21,500. Today, we peel back the layers on this Guards Red beauty to determine if it's worth every penny or if there are a few red flags to consider.

A Storied Past

According to the seller, this particular 928 has been owned by them for nearly three decades. That kind of long-term ownership typically suggests a well-cared-for vehicle, and for aficionados looking to become the new steward of such a classic, that longevity can be a promising sign. But it's not just the tenure of ownership that piques interest; it’s also the car's history and unique features.

Updated Looks

One of the most striking elements of this 1982 928 is its rear end. Although it’s an '82 model, it sports the rear bumper style, spoiler, and tail lamps from an ’87 or later model. A small nose check assures us that the front bumper and driving light setup remain original to the early ’80s design. While the advertisement doesn’t delve into why the changes were made – possibly due to an accident or an owner’s personal preference – it’s clear that the title remains clean, indicating any modifications were not due to an insurance settlement.

Inside and Out

A car’s aesthetic can make or break a deal, and in this case, the Guards Red paint appears in stellar condition. This vibrant hue is arguably one of the most expressive colors offered by Porsche during that era and pairs well with the later alloy wheels. Inside, the cabin is leather-trimmed and surprisingly well-preserved. The seats show minimal wear, a notable feat given the model’s tendency for interior wear and tear.

However, it isn’t all perfection. The dash cap shows some minor de-lamination, and an aftermarket stereo along with an excess of floor mats slightly detract from the otherwise pristine cabin ambiance. These are minor gripes, though, and relatively easy fixes for someone who acquires this machine.

The Heart of the Beast

No classic car discussion is complete without a peek under the hood, and here lies a 4.5-liter V8 producing 231 horsepower. However, the ad is noticeably silent on the condition of this engine and the clutch for its five-speed transaxle setup. Prospective buyers will need to pose these critical questions directly to the seller to get a clear sense of what they're diving into.

The Price Tag

So, let’s talk numbers. Priced at $21,500, is this classic GT a steal or a stretch? Enthusiasts will need to weigh the value of the car’s solid aesthetic, updated elements, and long-term ownership against the unanswered mechanical questions. There’s no denying that the Porsche 928 is a unique piece of automotive history, but whether this particular one is priced right comes down to individual priorities and risk tolerance.

For those prepared to potentially dig deeper into their pockets for repairs or restorations, this might just be the dream car they’ve been waiting for. Others might find the mix of uncertainties a deterrent.

Your Call

So, what’s your judgment? Is the seller’s asking price of $21,500 a fair deal for this classic Porsche GT, or does it leave you with more questions than answers? Drop your thoughts and let the debate begin!

If you want to take this conversation further, the ad for this 1982 Porsche 928 can be found on Craigslist, or you can view saved images if the ad disappears here.