In the spring of 1979, Porsche-Audi of North America and Carelli International Corporation embarked on an ambitious collaborative initiative to develop a special limited-production convertible variant of the Porsche 928. The result of this endeavor would ultimately be known as the Carelli Design C928 Porsche Convertible.

The Challenge

Transforming the original 928 coupe into a fully realized convertible demanded sweeping design and engineering changes. Among the most visible were redesigned doors, a reconfigured cabin interior, and an elegantly crafted rear trunk—engineered specifically to accommodate the vehicle's new convertible format.

Perhaps the most technically complex feature was the fully retractable convertible top, which—when lowered—was concealed entirely within a custom-designed internal storage compartment. Though such features are standard today, this level of integration was nearly unheard of in the late 1970s. The engineering challenge was profound: the original 928 coupe featured a monoblock unibody chassis, and Porsche's own engineers expressed skepticism that it could be structurally adapted for an open-top format without compromising integrity.

Nonetheless, Carelli Design met this challenge head-on, executing a comprehensive reengineering of the vehicle's structure while preserving the performance and driving dynamics that defined the Porsche brand.

The Result

Following its completion, the C928 debuted to critical acclaim at its international launch during the 1981 AutoExpo in Los Angeles, California. Automotive media across the globe hailed the achievement, recognizing Carelli Design as a rising creative powerhouse—capable of executing sophisticated, elegant design while remaining faithful to the engineering heritage of the original marque.

Why the Carelli Design C928 Porsche?

At the time, Porsche AG was often referred to as one of the smallest German automakers, producing approximately 15,000 vehicles annually with a workforce of around 4,200. In contrast to larger global manufacturers, this positioned Porsche closer to boutique automakers, such as those in Italy and the UK, whose annual production volumes ranged from as few as 50 to 2,000 units.

While the Porsche 928 coupe introduced groundbreaking design and engineering concepts, it received a tepid response from the brand's traditional enthusiast base. The Carelli Design convertible initiative was conceived, in part, as a bold effort to elevate the 928's profile and reposition it for broader appeal.

Carelli Design was already gaining recognition for its unique custom vehicles, which frequently commanded prices upward of $350,000 in 1979—a testament to the exclusivity and craftsmanship of its offerings. The C928 project further cemented the company's status as a creative force in vehicle design, bridging innovation and tradition in a manner few studios could rival.

The story behind the Carelli Design C928 Porsche

C928 Porsche Highlights

Extensive Modifications and Upgrades

The Carelli Design C928 Porsche convertible underwent a sweeping transformation that included major design and engineering changes. Among the most visible were redesigned doors, a reconfigured cabin interior, and an elegantly crafted rear trunk—engineered specifically to accommodate the vehicle's new convertible format.

Connolly Leather from England

The C928's interior was outfitted with luxurious Connolly leather hides, imported from England. At the time, this material was a hallmark of exclusivity, found only in the cabins of Rolls-Royce and Jaguar vehicles—marking a rare and prestigious choice for the C928 program.

Concealed Convertible Top System

A standout innovation of the C928 was its fully concealed convertible top, which retracted seamlessly into a dedicated internal storage chamber. While common today, this engineering feat was virtually unprecedented in the late 1970s and early 1980s—especially within the context of high-performance sports cars.

A Pioneering Engineering Triumph

Designing a convertible top for the 928 was an engineering challenge in itself. Creating a system that allowed it to retract into a hidden compartment—without compromising vehicle integrity—required ground-up reengineering. No such feature existed in the original coupe, nor in any production Porsche at the time.

Overcoming a Near-Impossibility

The 928's unibody chassis, built on monoblock construction technology, was never intended to support an open-top variant. Even Porsche's own engineers cautioned that modifying the existing structure would be nearly impossible. Yet Carelli Design succeeded, delivering an open-air configuration without sacrificing the vehicle's torsional rigidity or driving dynamics.

An Extraordinary Opportunity in Design

With an annual production volume of approximately 15,000 units and a workforce exceeding 4,200, Porsche was significantly larger than many of its contemporaries—particularly boutique automakers in Italy and the UK, which produced as few as 50 to 2,000 vehicles per year. Yet to the Carelli Design team, Porsche represented an ideal partner of exceptional stature—and for Vittorio G. Carelli, founder and CEO of Carelli International, the C928 project was the perfect challenge.

Carelli Design Assumed Responsibility for the Entire Project

Carelli Design assumed full responsibility for the C928 project. Its internal MESA team managed every aspect of research, engineering, design, and production—culminating in the creation of eight completed vehicles (excluding prototypes). The project was delivered on time, with a total development cost exceeding $2.5 million, and was launched to global acclaim with its international debut at the 1981 AutoExpo in Los Angeles.

In Harmony with the Original Maker

The success of the C928 Porsche convertible garnered worldwide recognition for Carelli Design. Automotive publications across the globe hailed the company as a new creative force—capable of styling, engineering, and producing beautifully designed vehicles in harmony with their original marques.

A Legacy Rooted in Porsche

The C928 project may never have materialized without the company's early business relationship and deep-rooted connection to the Porsche brand. It is no overstatement to say that Vittorio Carelli's unwavering fascination with Porsche gave rise to the company as it exists today. Much of our company's design ideology and engineering philosophy can be traced directly to those early years influenced by Porsche methodology, continuing to shape our company's approach to innovation and excellence.

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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 (MSRP): $79,900.00 (U.S. Dollars, excluding taxes and delivery)
Distribution: Porsche-Audi of North America
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
Sub-frame: C928-Specific Triangular Space Frame for torsional 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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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 2025

Publication Ref. 8242.9261 EN form 9261.1/V126

The Story Behind the Carelli Design C928 Porsche

Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG has often been characterized as the smallest of Germany's major automakers. While that may be accurate within the national context, a broader international comparison tells a different story. At the time of the C928 project, Porsche was producing approximately 15,000 vehicles annually—a figure that far surpassed the output of many boutique manufacturers, particularly those in Italy and the United Kingdom, whose yearly production ranged from as few as 50 to 2,000 units.

Whether considered large or small, Porsche was a perfect fit in the eyes of Carelli Design. For Vittorio G. Carelli, founder and CEO of Carelli International, the opportunity to collaborate with Porsche was not only significant—it was a natural and ideal alignment.

From a Modest Beginning to the Creative Spotlight

Contrary to what many might expect, Carelli International began as a modest independent service center specializing in Porsche automobiles. Yet the Carelli name quickly emerged as a recognized force, synonymous with technical precision and engineering excellence.

Vittorio G. Carelli, the company's founder, developed a deep and comprehensive understanding of Porsche engineering—with an eye for every unseen detail. His innate technical ability, meticulous attention to detail, and relentless pursuit of perfection were evident even in his early youth.

By 1978, the enterprise expanded into independent design ventures, culminating in the establishment of a full-scale transportation design facility in Costa Mesa, California. This fully equipped center—dedicated exclusively to vehicle design and development—became known simply as Carelli Design. Our Journey from the Beginning

The C928 project may never have come to fruition were it not for Carelli International's formative business activities and foundational relationship with the iconic Porsche brand. It can be argued that Vittorio G. Carelli's early and unwavering fascination with Porsche automobiles played a pivotal role in shaping what would become the modern identity of Carelli International.

The eventual success of the C928 Porsche design earned international acclaim and brought global recognition to the company's dedicated team of designers and engineers—then comprising just 28 individuals whose collective vision and craftsmanship defined a new force in automotive creativity.

The Company

Carelli International is composed of specialized divisions—Carelli Design, Codeworks CSE, and Webworks CSE—each contributing to a comprehensive suite of end-to-end solutions spanning product and experience design, mechanical and software engineering, brand development, advertising, photography, audiovisual communication, interactive media, artificial intelligence platforms, and more. These capabilities are seamlessly integrated across platforms, technologies, and industries. 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 recognized for its performance at the highest level of industry standards. Vittorio Carelli International S.A.R.L., originally founded in Paris and transitioned to U.S. operations in 1993, specializes in the design and global distribution of high-end luxury goods. 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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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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