Set to cross the auction block soon, this movie car is of historical significance for Hollywood buffs and Porsche fans alike
by Khris Bharath on August 5, 2024, 16:00If you’re a fan of Tom Cruise like I am (Top Gun fan here), a piece of cinematic history from one of his earliest hits is set to roll across the auction block. The iconic ’79 Porsche 928 Coupe (Chassis no. 9289201213), immortalized in the classic 1983 film "Risky Business”. It’s not that long ago, that this very car crossed the auction block at Barrett Jackson back in 2021 for $1.8 million. Now; it will be once again offered at auction, this time at the Bonhams’ Quail Auction in Carmel, California, at the upcoming Monterey Car Week (August 16, 2024).
- One of three 928s used in the filming of Risky Business
- Reported to be the vehicle on which Tom Cruise learned to drive a manual transmission
- One of 2,275 built for the U.S. in 1979
Here’s What Makes The Risky Business Porsche 928 Special
But there’s a lot more to this 928 as it holds a special place in automotive and cinematic history. This particular example wasn’t just a prop; in a way, it was Tom Cruise’s personal driving instructor. Before becoming a Hollywood heartthrob, Cruise learned to master the art of driving a car equipped with manual transmission, behind the wheel of this very 928. Yes, that’s right. Producer Jon Avnet helped Cruise to learn how to drive a stick. We all know how Tom likes to perform his own stunts. This car served as his co-star, both on and off-screen, as he honed his driving skills for the film’s iconic chase sequences, where Cruise managed to outrun a ’75 Cadillac Coupe Deville. It was after this scene that Cruise uttered that iconic marketing line: ‘Porsche, there is no substitute’
Originally finished in white, this Porsche was actually a movie car rental and was repainted Platinum Metallic for its cinematic debut, a color that was only made available in 1981. Under the hood lies a powerful 4.5-liter V8 engine mated to a five-speed manual transaxle, with 230 horsepower on tap. Close to 80% of 928s that made it Stateside featured an auto, making the manual all the more desirable. With a 50:50 weight distribution, the front-engined 928 of course was Porsche’s attempt at a GT car and steer away from the flat-six and the 911. Personally, besides the pop-up headlight, I feel that the 928 has aged rather well and doesn’t look as dated as the 924 or the 944 from the ’80s.
Having undergone a meticulous restoration, the car is presented in exceptional condition. Its provenance is impeccable, with signatures from the film’s cast adorning the passenger sun visor. As one of three 928s used in the film, one of which unfortunately was sunk in the movie in Lake Michigan, this is the hero car that stands out due to its extensive screen time and historical significance. Estimated to fetch between $1.4 million and $1.8 million, this is a unique opportunity for collectors and Porsche enthusiasts alike, to own a true Hollywood icon.
Khris Bharath
Khris is a Mechanical Engineer and a classic car aficionado, who adores his Jags, Alfas, and old-school American muscle cars. He keeps tabs on everything from super exotics like an old EB 110 to the latest from Lucid and geeks out on three-row family haulers. Formula One remains very close to his heart, and he diligently makes time to tune in for the Grand Prix on Sundays. Khris also loves his road trips and he prefers a stick shift over an auto. Read full bio