Engine: SOHC V8, 4664cc
Fuel system: Bosch K-Jetronic Electronic fuel infection
Power output: 305bhp @ 5900rpm
Max speed: 155mph
Acceleration 0-60 mph: 6.0 sec
Weight: 1450 Kg

Ferdinand Porsche had a hand in most of the car designs around the beginning of the last century, including work for Mercedes, Daimler, and Alfa Romeo, and even designed the Auto Union Silver Arrow Grand Prix cars that dominated pre-war racing. When Adolf Hitler decided Germany needed a ‘people’s car’ or ‘volkswagen’, in the 30’s, Porsche was the obvious man to turn to. His design for the car that became the Beetle was so good, it lasted almost unchanged for nearly 50 years (and still is made today in Mexico).

In around 1948, his son Ferry, decided to try and ‘tweak’ the VW chassis and engine, and around it he built a sleek aluminium body – the first Porsche badged car was born. This car became the 356, which lasted into the early 60’s until it became apparent that more power was needed. Ferry’s son Butzi extended the flat four Beetle engine to a 6, and an all-new body was designed for it. Originally to be called the 901 (Peugeot objected), the 911 was first sold in 1964. Various power hikes (from the very successful racing program) lifted power to 190bhp.

Various power hikes (from the very successful racing program) lifted power to 190bhp, but Porsche decided the anachronistic design mean a replacement was needed. Typ 928, launched in 1977, was intended to do that. With many advanced features, it was a huge leap from the 911, but at the equivalent of £100,000 in todays money, it was very expensive. Partly due to this, and partly due to prejudices amongst Porsche aficionados, the older car continued to sell so well, that it was granted a stay of execution. In 1978 journalists voted the 928 the European Car of the Year, and remains the only ‘supercar’ to win that accolade. Remember the benchmark 'Jellymould' car, the Ford Sierra, was in part inspired by the 928, as the Porsche preceded it by some 7 years. That Sierra now looks terribly dated, and although the 928 soldiered on into 1994, the design still looks fresh today.

Our car is a very rare manual 5 speed 928S. Viewed today it makes little sense for spirited drivers to have ever ordered an automatic, for the 5litre V8 revs highly and willingly producing it's max torque of 300 pounds foot at 4500 rpm, by which time the slushbox has already changed gear... This car is also fitted with an ANSA sports exhaust which makes a beautiful rumble. The car feels a lot fasts than it's stats suggest, and whilst many may be put off by its appearance, it has become a firm favourite amongst a majority of club members. Will it be one of yours?

Weekday points: 4; Weekend day points: 8.