1987 Porsche 928 S4 (Manual)

Porsche's intended replacement for the 911 had an all-alloy V8 attached to a rear-mounted gearbox, the galvanised body had aluminium doors and bonnet and the body-coloured bumpers were plastic, all pretty radical for its time. The 928 was launched to a fanfare, and surprised many by being named European Car of the Year, an award that traditionally went to worthy, but dull, family hatchbacks.

Critics immediately recognised the advances that the 928 had made over the 911, and the car was universally praised as one of the greatest GT cars of all time. It handled, it was quick, it looked fantastic and it was comfortable. With the 928, Porsche created a serious, long-distance, grand touring car that could also tackle twisting B-roads with ease, thanks to super-direct steering, 50/50 weight distribution and a clever Weissach rear axle that kept the car firmly planted. Coming of age and perceived as a compliment to the 911 rather than a rival, the 928 is now rightly appreciated, especially those well-maintained cars with low-mileages.

Consequently we are delighted to offer this rare, C16 UK-supplied, manual gearbox 928 Series 4, originally supplied by Charles Follett (Barbican) Ltd. of London to the nephew of the last Shah of Iran, His Royal Highness Prince Pahlabod, and registered to his West London address. The service history evidences the diligent maintenance as the Porsche travelled a couple thousand miles a year, a mixture of London Porsche main dealers and latterly marque specialists. Bought by our vendor on 21st September 2019 and maintained by noted specialists, Loe Bank Motors Ltd. of Bury. Recent invoices amount to just over £3,000 and the car received a full service in May 2023, together with a new clutch and axillary works.

It's presented to auction with two sets of keys, original Porsche alarm and immobiliser, complete original tool kit, handbooks and service book, previous MOTs (the current one is valid until 23rd April 2024, historic invoices and the most recent servicing bills. With a good drivers mileage of a shade under 48,300, at the time of cataloguing, and ready to go.