The Porsche 928 was a sleek if rather heavy-looking 2 + 2 hatchback coupe unlike anything else on the road -- a sort of German Corvette. That may seem an invidious comparison to Porschephiles, but it’s logical, and not just because both cars have V-8s. For example, the 928’s 98.4-inch wheelbase was just 0.4-inch longer than the contemporary Chevy’s. Overall size was broadly similar, too, though the Porsche measured 10 inches shorter (175.7 inches) and offered “+2” seating where the ’Vette did not. Both were obviously high-style, high-performance sports cars, but the 928 was more weight-efficient, tipping the scales at just under 3200 pounds (versus 3500-plus). Undoubtedly, the 928’s fixed-roof unit structure was lighter than the ’Vette’s steel frame and separate fiberglass T-top body.
Many designers will tell you it was one of if not THE most influential design that changed everything going forward.
Even Steve Jobs was smitten and owned one...here's a great strory about it from Apple lore...
Jobs owned a Porsche 928 at the time, most likely influencing his opinion. This caused much debate among the two of them, according to a report on Jalopnik via an account from Folklore.org. The website, Folklore.org, tells the development process of the Original Mac.
Andy Hertzfeld, a member of the original Apple development team, recalls the discussion in March 1981 during a late night at the office. "It's got to be different, different from everything else." said Jobs to James Ferris, Apple's director of Creative Services. “For some reason, they were talking about cars.” Hertzfeld recalls.
"We need it to have a classic look, that won't go out of style, like the Volkswagen Beetle", I heard Steve tell James.
"No, that's not right.", James replied. "The lines should be voluptuous, like a Ferrari.”
"Not a Ferrari, that's not right either", Steve responded, apparently excited by the car comparison. "It should be more like a Porsche!" referring to his Porsche 928.
So tell us, can you name a sportscar that had a bigger influence in future designs than the 928?