In the spring of 1979, Porsche Audi of North America and Carelli International Corporation launched an aggressive effort to develop a special limited series 928 convertible. The model would eventually become known as the Carelli Design C928 Porsche Convertible.

The Challenge

The new C928 would wind up sporting a variety of extensive modifications and upgrades. Among the most obvious was an extensive reconfiguration of the interior appointments, a redesign of the vehicle's doors, and the creation of a handsome new trunk for luggage, as a result of the vehicle's new convertible top. The C928's new interior featured lush Connelly leather hides out of England, a luxury only previously engaged by the automakers Rolls Royce and Jaguar. When in the down position, the new convertible top was skillfully stored entirely in its own concealed storage compartment, a feature relatively common by today's standards but nearly unprecedented in the late 70's and early 80's. Engineering a convertible top was the first challenge. Designing it to disappear into a concealed chamber required extensive engineering since none of this existed in the original coupe, nor any other Porsche for that matter. Those who knew something about the 928's new chassis, in particular, Porsche's hardcore engineers were all quick to point out that any attempt to modify the 928’s existing chassis (a unibody structure based on Monoblock technology) would be a near-impossible task.

The Result

Completion was followed by an enormously successful round of international debuts beginning in 1981 at the AutoExpo in Los Angeles California. Nearly every auto publication from around the world acknowledged Carelli Design as a new creative powerhouse having demonstrated its ability to beautifully style highly complex products in harmony with their maternal makers.

Why the Carelli Design C928 Porsche?

The company, Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche AG has often been described as the smallest among auto factories, and while that might be true within Germany, international comparisons prove otherwise. At the time of the C928 project, Porsche's production was approximately 15,000 units annually, with a workforce of some 4,200 employed. That could seem gigantic when compared to other small automakers, particularly those of Italian and English persuasion with annual productions of 50 to 2,000 units. Truth be told, Porsche's 928 coupe received only a lukewarm reception from their traditional steadfast customer base. The special limited series Carelli Design C928 Porsche convertible was a major attempt to boost, or rather draw attention to the new 928. Carelli Design had already been in the creative spotlight, receiving positive press on custom one-of-a-kind vehicles. The price tag for owning a custom Carelli Design vehicle in 1979 would often cost their proud owner as much as $350,000.

The story behind the Carelli Design C928 Porsche

C928 Porsche Highlights

Extensive Modifications and Upgrades. The new c928 would wind-up sporting a variety of extensive modifications and upgrades. Among the most obvious was an extensive reconfiguration of the interior appointments, a redesign of the vehicle’s doors and the creation of a handsome new trunk for luggage, as a result of the vehicle’s new convertible top.

Connelly Hides of England. The C928’s new interior featured lush Connelly leather hides out of England, a luxury previously engaged only by the automakers Rolls Royce and Jaguar.

Concealed Storage. When in the down position, the new convertible top is skillfully stored entirely in its own concealed storage compartment, a feature relatively common by today’s standards but nearly unprecedented in the late 70’s and early 80’s.

Innovative Triumphs. Engineering a convertible top was the first challenge. Designing it to disappear into a totally concealed chamber required extensive engineering since none of this existed in the original coupe, or any other Porsche for that matter.

A Near-impossible Task. Those who knew something about the 928’s new chassis, in particular Porsche’s own hardcore engineers were all quick to point out that any attempt to modify the 928’s existing chassis (a unibody structure based on monoblock technology) would be a near-impossible task.

An Extraordinary Design Opportunity. With an annual production of over 15,000 units, and a workforce of some 4,200 employed, Porsche seemed gigantic when compared to small automakers, particularly those of Italian and English persuasion which produce a mere 50 to 2,000 units annually. Big or small, Porsche appeared to the Carelli Design team as a Giant, and for Carelli International’s founder and CEO, Vittorio G. Carelli, it proved to be a perfect fit.

Carelli Design Assumed Responsibility for the Entire Project. Carelli Design assumed responsibility for the entire project, during which Carelli Design’s MESA team assumed responsibility for the entire research, engineering, eventual vehicle design as well as the production of eight completed prototypes (Carelli Design C928 Porsche vehicles). Completion was on-time with a final project development cost in excess of 2.5 million dollars, followed by an enormously successful round of international debuts beginning in 1981 at the AutoExpo in Los Angeles California.

Products in Harmony with their Maternal Makers. The success of the C928 project brought acclamation and worldwide recognition to Carelli Design’s C928 MESA team. Nearly every auto publication from around the world acknowledged Carelli Design as a new creative powerhouse—having demonstrated its ability to beautifully style highly complex products in harmony with their maternal makers.

An Unrelenting Fascination with Porsche. The C928 project perhaps would have never seen the light of day, if it were not for the company’s early business activities and integral ties with the legendary automobile manufacturer itself. It may even be said that it was Vittorio Carelli’s early unrelenting fascination with the Porsche automobile that Carelli International exists today.

Today, our company contributes much of its ideology and engineering principals to those early years influenced by Porsche methodology and philosophy.

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Technical Specifications (Carelli Design C928 Porsche)

General description

Vehicle model: Carelli Design C928 Porsche
Chassis type: two seat convertible
Final unit cost: $80,000.00 (U.S. Dollars, excluding taxes)
Quantity of vehicles constructed: 8 units (excluding prototypes)

Engine

No. of cylinders: V-8 water cooled
Displacement: 4.5 liters
Horsepower: 230
Rated at RPM: 5,250

Transmission

Type: 3 speed automatic or 5 speed manual (optional)

Chassis

Front suspension: independent, double A-arms with coil springs
Rear suspension: independent WEISSACH axle
Steering: power assisted (hydraulic) rack and pinion
Brakes: dual diagonal circuits, calipers front and rear, disc vented
Stability control: stabilizers front and rear Ø 28/22.5mm
Wheels: 16" alloy front and rear
Tires: Pirelli P7
Frame: C928 triangular space added for rigidity

Dimensions

Wheelbase: 2500mm
Track, front: 1552mm
Track, rear: 1529mm
Length: 4622mm
Width: 1836mm

Weight

Weight: 3290 lbs /1480 kg (with automatic transmission)

Coach

Construction: all steel and aluminum
Exterior: acrylic enamel finish
Interior: Connolly leather and 100% wool carpeting
Seats: 6 way, power operated
Windows: power operated
Safety: central warning system
Convertible top: 2-ply European auto cloth canvas

Performance

Maximum speed: 143 mph
0-60 mph: 7. 5 seconds
Duration 1/4 mile: 15.5 seconds

Warranty

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Ordering Information

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Ordering Information (Related Products)

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Footnotes

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Legal Information

© 1979-PRESENT Carelli International Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Carelli Design C928, and the Carelli C928 logo are registered trademarks of Carelli International Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and other countries. Porsche, and the Porsche logo are registered trademarks of Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche AG. Porsche, Porsche Crest, Porsche Design, and other Porsche product names, model numbers, logos, commercial symbols, trade names and slogans are trademarks of Porsche automobiles are trade dress of Dr. Ing. H.C. F.Porsche AG ("PAG") and are protected by U.S. and international trademark laws.

© 1973-PRESENT Carelli International Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Carelli, Carelli Design, Vittorio Carelli, and the Carelli logo are registered trademarks of Carelli International Corporation or its subsidiaries in the U.S. and other countries.

We reserve the right of modification to materials and or specifications without prior notice. Mention of non-Carelli products is for informational purposes and constitutes neither an endorsement nor a recommendation. Carelli International Corporation assumes no responsibility with regard to the selection, performance, or use of these products.

Revised December 2022

Publication Ref. 8242.9261 EN form 9261.1/V125

The Story Behind the Carelli Design C928 Porsche

The company, Dr. Ing. H.C.F. Porsche AG has often been described as the smallest among auto factories and while that might be true within Germany, international comparisons prove otherwise. At the time of the C928 project, Porsche’s production was approximately 15,000 units annually. That could seem gigantic when compared to small automakers, particularly those of Italian and English persuasion with annual productions of 50 to 2,000 units. Big or small, Porsche appeared to Carelli Design as a giant and for Carelli International’s founder and CEO, Vittorio G. Carelli, it was a perfect fit.

From a Modest Beginning to the Creative Spotlight

To the surprise of many, Carelli International began as a small independent service center of Porsche automobiles. The Carelli name quickly became a prominent enterprise with a reputation for technical excellence. Vittorio Carelli had acquired a profound understanding about every nut-and-bolt of the Porsche product. His technical aptitude, attention to detail, and steadfast scrutiny to deliver exacting perfection were already evident during his early childhood. In 1978, the Carelli enterprise set forth on independent design ventures, which soon provided for the creation of a full-scale transportation design facility located in Costa Mesa, California. The modern facility was dedicated entirely to vehicle transportation design and often referred to as Carelli Design. Our Journey from the Beginning

The C928 project would have perhaps never seen the light of day if it were not for the company’s early business activities and integral ties with the legendary automobile manufacturer itself. It may even be said that it was Vittorio Carelli’s early fascination with the Porsche automobile that is responsible for the modern existence of Carelli International today. Our company contributes much of its ideology and engineering principles to those early years influenced by Porsche. The eventual success of the C928 Porsche design brought acclamation and worldwide recognition to the company’s small team of inspired designers and engineers, at the time a mere 28 employees in all. More about Carelli Design

The Company

Carelli International is composed of specialized divisions—Carelli Design, Codeworks CSE, and Webworks CSE—that together deliver end-to-end solutions across product and experience design, mechanical and software engineering, brand development, advertising, photography, audiovisual communication, interactive media, and artificial intelligence. These capabilities are fully integrated across platforms, technologies, and global markets. EuroSystem Systems & Technology, a subsidiary of Carelli International, focuses on the engineering, manufacturing, and worldwide distribution of ultra-premium commercial reverse osmosis (RO) systems. Trusted in high-stakes sectors such as medical, pharmaceutical, and food services, EuroSystem is distinguished for its performance, precision, and reliability. Vittorio Carelli International S.A.R.L., originally founded in Paris and reassigned to U.S. operations in 1993, specializes in the design and global distribution of high-end luxury products. With more than five decades of applied expertise, Carelli International has built a reputation for excellence and innovation. Our clientele includes some of the world's most recognized brands—Coca-Cola, Sony, Motorola, Starbucks, Disney, Porsche, GE, China Unicom, and many Fortune 500 companies. More about Carelli Design

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Products by Name/Reference

Select Product by Name PORSCHE C928 PUZZLEDESK BX PUZZLECUBBY BX PUZZLETRAIL BX PUZZLESOUND BX PUZZLEVOYAGE BX COLLECTION ETE/89 COLLECTION HIVER/88/89 SYSTEM 51/A/CE SYSTEM 51/A/S/CE SYSTEM 51/A/TFC SYSTEM 51/A/S/TFC SYSTEM 51/A/S/TFC/B SYSTEM 51/A/S/TFC/C SYSTEM 51/A/S/TFC/UV2 SYSTEM 51/A/S/TFC/UV1 DRIVER 51/A/H/230 DRIVER 51/A/H/115 DRIVER 51/A/H/24V DRIVER 51/A/L/230 DRIVER 51/A/L/115 DRIVER 51/A/L/24V SYSTEM 195/A/TFC SYSTEM 195/A/TFC/B SYSTEM 195/A/TFC/SS SYSTEM 195/A/TFC/SS/B SYSTEM 380/A/TFC SYSTEM 380/A/TFC/B SYSTEM 380/A/TFC/SS SYSTEM 380/A/TFC/SS/B SYSTEM 760/A/TFC SYSTEM 760/A/TFC/B SYSTEM 760/A/TFC/SS SYSTEM 760/A/TFC/SS/B SYSTEM 1.1/A/TFC SYSTEM 1.1/A/TFC/B SYSTEM 1.1/A/TFC/SS SYSTEM 1.1/A/TFC/SS/B SYSTEM 1.5/A/TFC SYSTEM 1.5/A/TFC/B SYSTEM 1.5/A/TFC/SS SYSTEM 1.5/A/TFC/SS/B FILTERPAC 2 PRE FILTERPAC 2 CARBON FILTERPAC PRE/CARB FILTERPAC 195/380 /E FILTERPAC-2 RO/TFC FILTERPAC-2 MINI RO ULTRAVPAC 7.6/230 /V ULTRAVPAC 7.6/115 /V ULTRAV 2.6/L/230/10/V ULTRAV 2.6/L/115/10/V ULTRAV 2.6/L/230/10/P ULTRAV 2.6/L/115/10/P ULTRAV 3.8/H/230 /S ULTRAV 3.8/H/115 /S ULTRAV 7.6/L/230/30/V ULTRAV 7.6/L/115/30/V ULTRAV 7.6/L/230/25/P ULTRAV 7.6/L/115/25/P ULTRAV 7.6/H/230 /S ULTRAV 7.6/H/115 /S Other Products Not Listed
Select Product by Reference 8242.9261 4021.2241 4011.2251 4031.3240 4031.3246 4031.3268 8941.9261 8841.9261 9001.2228 9001.2229 9001.2230 9001.2231 9002.2231 9003.2231 9001.2232 9001.2234 9001.1236 9001.1237 9001.1238 9001.1039 9001.1040 9001.1041 9001.2332 9002.2332 9001.2333 9002.2333 9001.2434 9002.2434 9001.2435 9002.2435 9101.2636 9102.2636 9101.2637 9102.2637 9201.2638 9202.2638 9201.2639 9202.2639 9201.2642 9202.2642 9201.2643 9202.2643 9001.2017 9001.2018 9001.2043 9001.2045 9004.2231 9201.2026 9201.2028 9202.2012 9202.2014 9201.2012 9201.2014 9201.2011 9201.2013 9202.2016 9202.2018 9201.2016 9201.2018 9201.2015 9201.2017 Other References Not Listed
Accessories and Related Items PUZZLECUBBY PUZZLETRAIL PUZZLESOUND PUZZLEVOYAGE PUZZLEDESK INTERLOCK ROSEWOOD SP PUZZLEDESK INTERLOCK ROSEWOOD PUZZLEDESK INTERLOCK CHERRY PUZZLEDESK INTERLOCK EBONY SP PUZZLEDESK INTERLOCK BIRCH PART KIT/ICE MAKER/Q4 PART KIT/FLUSH/51A/2 PART KIT/UV/2.6/230/V PART KIT/UV/2.6/115/V PART KIT/MEMB/380/TFC PART KIT/MEMB/760/TFC PART MEMBRANE/ 51/CE PART MEMBRANE/ 51/TFC PART MEMBRANE/195/TFC PART MEMBRANE/380/TFC PART MEMBRANE/760/TFC PART MEMBRANE/1.1/TFC PART MEMBRANE/1.5/TFC PART RESERVOIR / 12L PART RESERVOIR / 75L PART RESERVOIR /150L PART RESERVOIR /300L ULTRAHOT/1.9/HC/115V/0 PART DISPENSER/11/DK3 PART FAUCET/SM/CROME PART FAUCET/SM/COLOR PART FAUCET/LR/CROME PART FAUCET/DUAL/CROME Other Products Not Listed
Replacement Parts PART INSERT/FEED/2/8 PART UNION /FEED/2/6 PART EXTENSION/FAUCET PART REGULATOR/FEED PART KIT/ICE MAKER/Q4 PART KIT/FLUSH/51A/2 PART KIT/UV/2.6/230/V PART KIT/UV/2.6/115/V PART FILTER/PRE/ 1M PART FILTER/PRE/ 5M PART FILTER/PRE/CAL PART FILTER/CARBON PART FILTER/CARB/75 PART FILTER/TCR/10/2 PART INSERT/FEED/4/8 PART UNION /FEED/4/6 PART SADDLE/BRINE/4/P PART SADDLE/BRINE/6/P PART BRACKET/WALL/A/SS PART KIT/MEMB/380/TFC PART KIT/MEMB/760/TFC PART FILTER/PRE/ 1M PART FILTER/PRE/ 5M PART FILTER/PRE/25M PART FILTER/PRE/50M PART FILTER/PRE/CAL PART FILTER/CAL/25 PART FILTER/CARBON PART FILTER/CARB/50 PART FILTER/CARB/75 PART FILTER/CARB/150 PART FILTER/CARB/EX PART FILTER/CARB/1M2 PART FILTER/CARB/5M2 PART FILTER/CAL/10/4 PART FILTER/TCR/10/4 PART CHLORINAT/30/4/P PART MEMBRANE/ 51/CE PART MEMBRANE/ 51/TFC PART MEMBRANE/195/TFC PART MEMBRANE/380/TFC PART MEMBRANE/760/TFC PART MEMBRANE/1.1/TFC PART MEMBRANE/1.5/TFC PART RESERVOIR/ 12L PART RESERVOIR/ 75L PART RESERVOIR/150L PART RESERVOIR/300L ULTRAHOT/1.9/HC/115V/0 PART DISPENSER/11/DK3 PART FAUCET/SM/CROME PART FAUCET/SM/COLOR PART FAUCET/LR/CROME PART FAUCET/DUAL/CROME PART HOUSING/25/4/BL PART HOUSING/25/4/CL PART HOUSING/25/12/BL PART HOUSING/50/12/BL Other Parts Not Listed

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C928 Porsche highlights
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Awards

Awards from the Industrial Designers Society of America, the International Interior Design Association, the American Institute of Architects, and many others have supported our contributions to industrial product design. We continue to be committed to developing products and solutions that meet the demands of our clients while appealing to the emotional desires of consumers. We are equally committed to bigger issues—humanity, equality, and bettering the world we live in.

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