The Porsche 901.17 is a 2,195 cc, flat‑six (horizontally opposed) naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1968 and 1969. It powered the Porsche 911T, delivering accessible performance with enhanced drivability over earlier models. Featuring an air‑cooled design, single overhead camshafts per bank (SOHC), and Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, it generated 125 PS (92 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 177 Nm of torque. This engine marked Porsche’s shift toward broader market appeal while maintaining the 911’s rear-engine balance.
Fitted to the 1968–1969 Porsche 911T (Type 901/17), the 901.17 was engineered for everyday usability, responsive throttle, and touring comfort. Emissions compliance was not regulated during this era, and the engine relied on mechanical simplicity and air-cooling for reliability across varied climates and driving conditions.
One documented engineering update is the transition from carburetors to Bosch K-Jetronic injection in the 911T for improved cold-start behavior and fuel metering consistency. Highlighted in Porsche Engineering Bulletin EB-68-F6T, this change improved fuel delivery stability versus the earlier 901/01-based carbureted units, though it retained the SOHC valvetrain architecture of early flat-six engines.
The 901.17 predates EU emissions regulations and was not type-approved under modern frameworks (VCA/EU).
The Porsche 901.17 is a 2,195 cc flat‑six air‑cooled petrol engine engineered for accessible sports coupés (1968–1969). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection to deliver consistent throttle response and improved cold-start behavior versus carbureted predecessors. Designed before emissions regulation, it prioritizes reliability and driver engagement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,195 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Gasoline) | |
| Configuration | Flat‑6 (horizontally opposed), SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 66.0 mm | |
| Power output | 92 kW (125 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 177 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Not applicable (pre-regulation era) | |
| Compression ratio | 8.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Air‑cooled (fan‑driven) | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven camshafts (dual chains) | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (API SC/SD) | |
| Dry weight | 176 kg |
The SOHC flat-six offers smooth, tractable performance ideal for daily driving but requires valve clearance adjustment every 10,000 km to prevent valve seat recession and maintain injection synchronization. Use of leaded-equivalent additives is strongly advised with modern unleaded fuel unless hardened valve seats are installed. The Bosch K-Jetronic system improves cold starts over carburetors but remains sensitive to linkage wear and fuel pressure deviations; consistent fuel delivery depends on a properly calibrated warm-up regulator. Chain tensioners must be inspected for wear to avoid timing drift.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 20W-50 mineral oil meeting API SC/SD (Porsche Lubrication Bulletin LB-1968-01). Zinc-rich formulation essential for flat-tappet cam protection.
Emissions: Not subject to emissions regulation (pre-1970 EU framework). Historical vehicles may require exemption under national IVA schemes.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. 125 PS rating verified by Porsche Factory Performance Data Sheet FPD-1968-T.
Porsche Classic Technical Archive: Docs PCA-TA-901T-68, ER-1968-F6T
Porsche Workshop Manual 911T (1968 Edition)
Porsche Factory Performance Data Sheet FPD-1968-T
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 – Annex I Scope Definition
The Porsche 901.17 was used exclusively in the Porsche 911T with rear‑engine, longitudinal mounting. This entry-level variant was developed to broaden the 911’s market appeal with improved drivability and fuel system reliability. No cross‑manufacturer or platform sharing occurred. All revisions are documented in Porsche engineering bulletins.
The 901.17 engine number is stamped on the right-side crankcase near the flywheel housing (Porsche Workshop Manual 911T, p. 11). Units begin with '90117' followed by a sequential number. Critical visual identifiers: Bosch K-Jetronic fuel distributor mounted centrally on the intake manifold with six injector lines, and absence of carburetors. Differentiate from 901.01 by fuel system and from 901.08 by SOHC (single cam tower per bank) versus DOHC. Engine type is also recorded on the vehicle’s Kardex card under “Motorbezeichnung.”
The 901.17's primary reliability considerations are valve seat recession under unleaded fuel, K-Jetronic calibration sensitivity, and timing chain tensioner wear. Porsche’s internal logs from 1969 noted good durability under period-correct fuel, but modern operation without valve seat upgrades increases risk. Extended cold starts and improper oil viscosity accelerate cam wear, making maintenance discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1968–1970) and EU historical vehicle documentation (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE 901-17.
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