WHAT TO LOOK FOR

STEERING RACK Early steering racks are known to provide potentially expensive headaches. Check for leaks – if you find any fluid making a break from the mothership you’re looking at a likely power steering rack rebuild.

GEARBOX The automatic gearbox comes from Mercedes-Benz, and as such has proved to be equally as solid as the engine, with no major faults reported. Worn synchromeshes have been reported in 1978-1984 manual cars, so check for crunching noises. Check the flex plate tension as this may lead to wear in the crank thrust bearing, and then engine block destruction usually follows...

ENGINE The 928’s engine is a strong unit, and is easily capable of racking up big mileages. However, it’s imperative that the timing belt is replaced every 60,000 miles. Check for receipts that back this up as it’s an expensive job – it’s wise to have the water pump replaced at the same time.

ELECTRICS Check that everything works, and that the car hasn’t been left sitting for too long. The location of the battery – in the boot, under the spare wheel – doesn’t make trickle charging easy. Check the 14pin connector under the bonnet for f corrosion. A 928 enthusiast will be on top of this, though.

INTERIOR Although an exotic GT, the 928 was built to be used, so it’s not uncommon to find wear and tear. Most parts are available. The 928 spanned the 1980s, when massive mobile telephone appendages were drilled into the dash. Also check that the aircon works, as replacing the unit is an expensive enterprise.

BRAKES This is the reason why checking the service history is so important. You’re looking for regular brake fluid changes – should they be left too long you’ll enter a whole world of component calamities, involving the calipers, lines and discs, and replacing those items is neither cheap nor easy.

FUEL hoses Try to check the condition of the fuel hoses. These will be getting old now, even for the newest 928s. Replacements are available, but it’s best to buy one that’s had them refreshed already as it’s not a simple job. Again, ask questions. It’s suggested that they’re replaced every five years.

SUSPENSION Ball joints are a known issue, especially the uppers – you can’t service these and they need replacing with control arms, which isn’t cheap. Early cars used aluminium ball joints, which are less hardwearing than the later steel items.