Top 10 Grand Tourers 1984 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Mercedes-Benz 500 SEC

The 500 SEC tops this list because it paired a 5.0-liter V8 producing 228 horsepower with Mercedes' flagship W126 coupe body, delivering 0-60 mph in roughly 7.5 seconds. It cost approximately $58,000 in 1984, making it one of the most expensive GTs on sale. The pillarless hardtop design and 111.6-inch wheelbase gave it genuine four-seat comfort at sustained autobahn speeds.

This car is for the buyer who wants maximum presence, vault-like build quality, and effortless torque for continental touring. It trades away fuel economy — around 14 mpg combined — and agility compared to lighter rivals. Against the BMW 635CSi directly below it, the SEC offers more space and prestige but less steering feel and a significantly higher entry price.

2. BMW 635CSi

The 635CSi ranks second because it combined a 3.5-liter inline-six making 182 horsepower with a near-perfect 51/49 weight distribution and a five-speed manual option. It hit 60 mph in about 7.8 seconds and cost roughly $36,000 in 1984. The E24 platform's shark-nose styling and rear-seat room made it a genuine everyday GT.

It suits drivers who prioritize chassis balance and manual gearbox engagement over outright luxury. It gives up some rear legroom and ride isolation versus the Mercedes 500 SEC above it, and its 182 horsepower trails the V8's 228. Compared to the Porsche 928 S below, it is slower and less technically exotic but far more practical for carrying passengers.

3. Porsche 928 S

The 928 S takes third because its 4.7-liter V8 produced 234 horsepower in US trim, delivering 0-60 mph in approximately 6.6 seconds — quicker than both cars above it. The transaxle layout gave it a near-50/50 weight balance, and it cost around $48,000 in 1984. It won European Car of the Year in 1978 and remained the fastest car here.

This is for the driver who wants supercar pace with grand-touring comfort and a hatchback. It trades away rear-seat usability — the 2+2 bench is nearly useless — and its complex timing belt and cooling systems demand diligent maintenance. Against the BMW 635CSi above, it is substantially faster but less practical and considerably more expensive to run.

4. Jaguar XJS HE

The XJS HE ranks fourth because its 5.3-liter V12 with High Efficiency heads produced 262 horsepower and 290 lb-ft, giving effortless cruising and a 0-60 mph time near 7.5 seconds. It cost about $36,000 in 1984. The HE revision improved fuel economy to roughly 15 mpg, addressing the earlier car's thirst.

It appeals to buyers wanting twelve-cylinder smoothness and dramatic coupe styling at a relatively accessible price. It trades away reliability and build consistency — electrical gremlins and cooling issues are well documented — and its rear seats are strictly occasional. Compared to the Porsche 928 S above, it offers more cylinders and similar pace but far less dependability.

5. Chevrolet Corvette C4

The C4 Corvette ranks fifth because its 5.7-liter L83 Cross-Fire V8 made 205 horsepower and 290 lb-ft, and its all-new chassis with independent rear suspension pulled 0.90 g on the skidpad. It hit 60 mph in about 6.9 seconds and cost roughly $24,000 in 1984, undercutting every European rival here.

It is for the buyer who wants serious grip and V8 torque for the least money. It trades away luggage space, ride comfort, and interior materials — the C4's plastics and seats feel crude next to the Jaguar XJS HE above. Against the Ford Mustang SVO below, it offers more displacement and straight-line muscle but less chassis sophistication.

6. Ford Mustang SVO

The Mustang SVO ranks sixth because its turbocharged 2.3-liter four produced 175 horsepower and 210 lb-ft, and it featured four-wheel disc brakes, a limited-slip differential, and Koni dampers as standard. It cost about $15,500 in 1984 and ran 0-60 mph in roughly 7.5 seconds. It was the most balanced Mustang of its era.

This is for the enthusiast who wants handling and turbo character over V8 noise. It trades away low-end torque and straight-line speed versus the Corvette C4 above, and its $15,500 price was steep for a four-cylinder Mustang. Against the Toyota Supra below, it is more focused but less refined and less generously equipped.

7. Toyota Supra A60

The Supra A60 ranks seventh because its 2.8-liter 5M-GE inline-six made 161 horsepower and 169 lb-ft, with a five-speed manual and independent rear suspension. It cost around $16,000 in 1984 and hit 60 mph in about 8.4 seconds. It offered GT comfort with Japanese reliability at a mid-range price.

It suits buyers who want dependable daily grand touring without European maintenance costs. It trades away outright pace — 161 horsepower trails the Mustang SVO above and the Nissan 300ZX below — and its suspension is tuned soft. Against the Mustang SVO, it is slower and less sharp but far more comfortable and better built.

8. Nissan 300ZX Z31

The 300ZX Z31 ranks eighth because its 3.0-liter VG30E V6 made 160 horsepower and 173 lb-ft, and the Turbo variant pushed 200 horsepower with 0-60 mph in about 7.0 seconds. The naturally aspirated car cost roughly $16,000 in 1984. It offered digital dashboards and T-top roofs as available equipment.

It is for buyers wanting turbo performance or V6 smoothness at a reasonable price. It trades away steering feel and chassis composure compared to the Supra A60 above, and the turbo's 200 horsepower came with lag and heat-soak issues. Against the Mazda RX-7 below, it is more comfortable but less rewarding to drive hard.

9. Mazda RX-7 FB

The RX-7 FB ranks ninth because its 1.1-liter 12A twin-rotor engine made 101 horsepower and revved smoothly to 7,000 rpm, while the car weighed only about 2,350 pounds. It cost roughly $11,000 in 1984 and returned balanced handling from its near-50/50 weight distribution. It was the lightest and cheapest car on this list.

It appeals to drivers who value low weight, rev-happy character, and minimal running costs. It trades away power, space, and refinement — 101 horsepower is far behind the Nissan 300ZX above, and the rotary consumes oil by design. Against the Alfa Romeo GTV6 below, it is lighter and cheaper but slower and less sonorous.

10. Alfa Romeo GTV6

The GTV6 ranks tenth because its 2.5-liter Busso V6 made 154 horsepower and produced one of the finest exhaust notes of any 1984 car, paired with a rear transaxle and inboard disc brakes. It cost about $18,000 in 1984 and hit 60 mph in roughly 8.0 seconds. It won the 1983 European Touring Car Championship.

It is for the purist who prizes steering feel, balance, and engine character above all else. It trades away reliability, rust resistance, and dealer support — the GTV6 demands committed ownership. Against the Mazda RX-7 above, it offers more power and a better soundtrack but far worse dependability and a higher purchase price.

How we ranked these

We scored each 1984 grand tourer on four weighted criteria: real-world performance (0-60, top speed, braking, skidpad) at 35%; driving engagement (steering feel, gearbox, chassis balance) at 30%; grand touring comfort and practicality (seats, boot, ride, noise) at 20%; and ownership cost (parts availability, service complexity, fuel thirst) at 15%. Data came from period road tests, factory specs, and current market listings.

We deliberately ignored collector hype, auction results, and celebrity provenance. Those factors inflate prices without improving the car. We also excluded limited-run homologation specials and track-focused variants that compromise daily usability. Our goal was to rank cars you can actually buy, drive, and maintain in 2025, not museum pieces or speculative assets.

What to look for

Prioritize condition and documented service history over mileage. A well-sorted high-mile car beats a neglected low-mile example every time. Check for rust in the sills, floorpans, and around the windscreen. Verify that the fuel injection, ignition, and vacuum systems work correctly. Parts for Italian and British cars can take weeks to arrive, so factor that into your budget.

The biggest mistake buyers make is falling for a cheap entry price. A $15,000 project can easily become a $45,000 car once you rebuild the suspension, brakes, cooling system, and interior. Always get a pre-purchase inspection from a marque specialist. Set aside 20% of the purchase price for immediate sorting. Buy the best example you can afford, not the first one you see.

Related questions

What is the best overall 1984 grand tourer?

The Porsche 928 S. It blends a 5.0-liter V8, 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, a 150-mph top speed, and genuine daily usability. The hatchback holds real luggage, the cabin is comfortable for hours, and the chassis is balanced and secure. Parts are expensive but available, and specialist support is strong. It is the most complete GT of the year.

What is the best value 1984 grand tourer?

The Chevrolet Corvette C4. It offers 205 horsepower, 0-60 in 6.5 seconds, and 150 mph for a fraction of European prices. The digital dash and Doug Nash 4+3 gearbox are quirky, but the chassis is stiff and the brakes are strong. Parts are cheap and every mechanic knows small-block V8s. Buy a well-kept example.

How does the Ferrari 308 GTB compare to the Porsche 928?

The 308 is lighter, more visceral, and sounds better. It turns heads and rewards a skilled driver. But it is slower in a straight line, thirstier, and far more expensive to service. The 928 is faster, more comfortable, and more practical. Choose the Ferrari for emotion, the Porsche for everything else.

Is the Jaguar XJS a good grand tourer?

Yes, if you accept its flaws. The 5.3-liter V12 is smooth and torque-rich, and the cabin is luxurious. But fuel economy is terrible, the electrics are fragile, and rust is a constant threat. A well-sorted XJS is a sublime cruiser. A neglected one is a financial black hole. Buy the best you can find.

What about the BMW 635CSi?

The 635CSi is the sensible choice. Its 3.4-liter inline-six is bulletproof, the handling is balanced, and the cabin is beautifully built. It is not as fast as the 928 or Corvette, but it feels special and costs less to run. Rust in the rear arches and around the shark nose is the main concern.

Which 1984 GT has the best steering feel?

The Lotus Esprit Turbo. Its unassisted rack delivers pure, uncorrupted feedback. You feel every camber and surface change. The trade-off is heavy low-speed effort and a cramped cabin. The Porsche 928 S with its powered rack is more precise but less communicative. Enthusiasts still rate the Esprit's steering as the gold standard.

Are 1984 grand tourers reliable enough for long trips?

Yes, if properly maintained. The Porsche 928, BMW 635CSi, and Corvette C4 can cover hundreds of miles comfortably. The Jaguar XJS and Ferrari 308 need more preparation. Carry spare relays, belts, and fluids. Join a marque club for roadside advice. A well-sorted 1984 GT is a capable touring car even today.

What should I pay for a 1984 Porsche 928 S?

Expect $15,000 to $25,000 for a driver with needs, $30,000 to $45,000 for a well-sorted example, and $50,000+ for a low-mile concours car. Timing belt and water pump service is critical. A recent top-end rebuild adds value. Avoid cars with deferred maintenance, no matter how shiny the paint.

FAQ

Which 1984 grand tourer is fastest?

The Porsche 928 S is fastest overall, with a 150-mph top speed and 0-60 in 6.5 seconds. The Chevrolet Corvette C4 matches the 0-60 time but has a lower top speed. The Ferrari 308 GTB Quattrovalvole hits 60 in 6.7 seconds and tops out around 155 mph. Real-world differences are small; driver skill matters more.

What is the most reliable 1984 grand tourer?

The BMW 635CSi. Its M30 inline-six is legendary for durability, and the rest of the car is robust. The Porsche 928 is also reliable if maintained, but parts cost more. The Corvette C4's small-block V8 is simple and tough. Avoid neglected Jaguar XJS and Ferrari 308 examples unless you enjoy electrical and engine work.

Which 1984 GT is cheapest to maintain?

The Chevrolet Corvette C4. Small-block V8 parts are inexpensive and available at any auto parts store. Labor is simple. The BMW 635CSi is next, with reasonable parts and strong club support. The Porsche 928, Jaguar XJS, and Ferrari 308 cost significantly more per service. Budget accordingly before you buy.

Can I daily drive a 1984 grand tourer?

Yes, but choose wisely. The Porsche 928 S, BMW 635CSi, and Corvette C4 are the most practical. They have decent cargo space, working air conditioning, and parts availability. The Ferrari 308 and Lotus Esprit are cramped and hot. The Jaguar XJS is comfortable but thirsty. Any 40-year-old car needs regular attention.

What common problems should I check on a 1984 Porsche 928?

Check the timing belt and water pump service history. Inspect the fuel lines and injectors for leaks. Test the digital dash and climate control. Look for rust in the spare tire well and around the rear hatch. Listen for timing chain tensioner noise. A pre-purchase inspection by a 928 specialist is essential.

Is the 1984 Corvette C4 a true grand tourer?

Yes, despite its sports-car image. The C4 has a comfortable cabin, decent luggage space, and a compliant ride in base form. The 4+3 manual allows relaxed highway cruising. It lacks the badge prestige of European GTs, but it delivers similar performance for far less money. It is the value pick of the year.

How much should I budget for a 1984 Jaguar XJS?

Purchase price ranges from $5,000 for a project to $25,000 for a nice example. But budget another $5,000 to $10,000 for immediate sorting: cooling system, ignition, fuel hoses, and rust repair. V12 service is complex. Many owners swap in a small-block V8. Buy the best rust-free car you can find.

Which 1984 grand tourer has the best interior?

The BMW 635CSi. Its dashboard is clear, materials are high quality, and the seats support long drives. The Porsche 928 S is close, with excellent ergonomics and a driver-focused layout. The Jaguar XJS feels luxurious but fragile. The Corvette C4's digital dash is a love-it-or-hate-it design. Ferrari and Lotus prioritize style over comfort.

Are 1984 grand tourers a good investment?

Some are. Porsche 928 S, Ferrari 308, and BMW 635CSi values have risen steadily. Jaguar XJS and Lotus Esprit remain flat. Corvette C4 is still affordable. Buy the best example you can, drive it, and maintain it. Do not expect huge returns. Enjoy the car first; investment is a bonus.

What is the best 1984 GT for a first-time classic buyer?

The BMW 635CSi or Chevrolet Corvette C4. Both are robust, easy to service, and have strong enthusiast communities. Parts are affordable and knowledge is plentiful. The Porsche 928 is a step up in cost and complexity. Avoid the Jaguar XJS, Ferrari 308, and Lotus Esprit until you have experience with older cars.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15103850/1984-porsche-928s-archived-test/
• https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/classic-cars/a26271/1984-chevrolet-corvette-c4-test/
• https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/1984-chevrolet-corvette-first-test/
• https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/1984-porsche-928-s
• https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/1984-bmw-635csi
• https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/1984-jaguar-xjs
• https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/buying-guide-porsche-928
• https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/buying-guide-bmw-6-series-e24
• https://www.classicandsportscar.com/features/buying-guide-ferrari-308
• https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying-and-selling/1984-corvette-c4-buyers-guide/

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