For over three decades, a unique and somewhat quirky vehicle played a crucial role in Porsche's mission to make their cars quieter. This vehicle, a silver Porsche 928, stood out with its peculiar add-ons and modifications. Now residing in the Porsche Museum, it holds a special place in automotive history, especially for those who worked with it at the Weissach test and development centre.
A Test Car Like No Other
Harald Mann, a seasoned Porsche employee with 40 years of experience, describes the 928 noise test vehicle as a "real dinosaur." Its primary function was to help Porsche comply with noise emission regulations by capturing external noise parameters during drive-by tests. The choice of the 928 was not accidental. The vehicle's power and relatively quiet operation at low engine speeds made it ideal for noise testing. Unlike other models such as the 924, 944, or air-cooled 911s, the 928's design minimized extraneous noise, allowing engineers to focus on testing tire noise.
Engineering Excellence in Noise Reduction
The Porsche 928 noise test vehicle became perhaps the quietest 928 in the world. Engineers went to great lengths to isolate and minimize noise sources. The engine and powertrain were wrapped in extensive insulation, and the radiator was relocated to reduce fan noise. An intake silencer was used to further dampen engine sounds. These modifications were practical rather than aesthetic, emphasizing function over form.
In the rear, the exhaust system featured an oversized silencer, and the transaxle shaft and gearbox were encapsulated to reduce noise. These efforts resulted in a vehicle that could achieve remarkably low noise levels during testing. At one point, using slick tires, the 928 noise test vehicle recorded a noise level of just 63 dB(A), well below the then-legal limit of 74 dB(A).
Legacy and Continued Use
The 928 noise test vehicle's modifications made it ideal for testing new tire designs, and it was occasionally used by tire manufacturers like Pirelli. The vehicle adapted to various wheel and tire combinations over the years, with recent tests indicating its continued relevance. Despite its age, the vehicle's advanced engineering and unique features meant it could still perform its intended function effectively.
One of the vehicle's lesser-known aspects is its engine. During the development of the 928 GTS in the early 1990s, two engine concepts were considered. The vehicle was fitted with a one-off 5.4-liter V8 engine designed for high torque, making it even more special.
The Porsche 928 noise test vehicle is not just a museum piece; it represents a significant chapter in Porsche's pursuit of engineering excellence. Its contributions to vehicle acoustics continue to influence Porsche's designs today, demonstrating the company's commitment to innovation and quality.
Conclusion
The Porsche 928 noise test vehicle's history is a testament to Porsche's dedication to refining every aspect of their cars, including noise reduction. This unique vehicle highlights the meticulous engineering and innovative solutions that define Porsche's approach to automotive excellence. For those interested in the fascinating history of Porsche's test vehicles and their impact on modern car design, the 928 noise test vehicle is a must-see.
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