The Porsche 911.52 is a 2,994 cc, air‑cooled flat‑six (boxer) petrol engine produced between 1976 and 1977. It features K — Jetronic continuous mechanical fuel injection, overhead valve (OHV) layout, and dry sump lubrication. In standard form it delivered 147 kW (200 PS) at 6,300 rpm with 265 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm, engineered for responsive performance while meeting emerging emissions mandates.
Fitted exclusively to the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 (G — series) for Europe…
Production years 1976–1977 meet pre‑Euro national emissions standards; formal Euro classification does not apply (KBA Germany Type Approval #15982).
The Porsche 911.52 is a 2,994 cc flat‑six air‑cooled petrol engine engineered for the 911 Carrera 3.0 (1976–1977). It combines Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical injection with OHV architecture to deliver smooth power delivery and enhanced emissions control. Designed before formal Euro regimes, it relies on thermal efficiency and mechanical precision to meet contemporary West German type approval requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,994 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (Leaded, compatible with unleaded with upgrades) | |
Configuration | Flat‑6 (boxer), OHV, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 70.4 mm | |
Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 6,300 rpm | |
Torque | 265 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch K-Jetronic continuous injection | |
Emissions standard | Pre‑Euro (national type approval only) | |
Compression ratio | 8.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Air‑cooled (fan‑driven) | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Gear‑driven camshaft | |
Oil type | SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (API SF/CC) | |
Dry weight | 135 kg |
The Porsche 911.52 was used exclusively in the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 (G-series) with rear-engine, longitudinal mounting. Platform-specific adaptations included reinforced engine mounts and revised cooling shrouds to accommodate larger 3.0 L displacement. Early 1976 units used original magnesium alloy cases, while mid‑1976 onward adopted improved material composition per PTB‑76/03, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The 911.52's primary reliability risk is thermal stress cracking in early magnesium crankcases under sustained high-load operation. Porsche internal quality data from 1976 noted elevated case failures in pre-mid‑1976 builds, while KBA workshop reports identify K-Jetronic calibration drift as a frequent cause of rough running. Extended high-RPM use without oil changes accelerates cam lobe wear, making oil quality and fuel system maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1976–1979) and Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA) failure statistics (1977–1981). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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With proper maintenance and crankcase inspection (especially on early 1976 units), the 911.52 is robust. Valve seat recession is a risk on unleaded fuel without modifications. Regular oil changes, K-Jetronic calibration, and valve adjustments every 10,000 km are essential for longevity.
Top issues include crankcase thermal cracking (early 1976 only), K-Jetronic calibration drift, valve seat recession on unleaded fuel, and oil leaks from aged seals. These are documented in Porsche Technical Bulletins PTB-76/03 and service manuals.
Exclusively the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.0 (G-series) coupé and Targa from 1976 to 1977. These were the only 3.0 L naturally aspirated 911s before the 930 turbo variant. All are rear-engine, RWD layouts with 4- or 5-speed manual transmissions.
Yes. Common upgrades include performance cams, higher-compression pistons (up to 9.5:1), and K-Jetronic recalibration. Careful balancing and oil system upgrades are advised. Period-correct builds stay under 220 PS to preserve air-cooled thermal limits.
Typical consumption is 14–16 L/100km (20–18 mpg UK) in mixed driving due to larger displacement. Highway cruising yields ~11.5 L/100km (25 mpg UK). Short-trip driving significantly worsens economy due to thermal inefficiency in air-cooled design.
No. The 911.52 is a non-interference OHV flat-six. If timing fails (unlikely, as it uses gears), valves and pistons do not contact. However, valve train damage can still occur from loose components or excessive clearance.
Porsche specifies SAE 20W-50 mineral oil with API SF/CC rating and ZDDP anti-wear additive (≥1000 ppm). Modern synthetics may cause oil pump cavitation in dry-sump systems. Change every 10,000 km or annually, whichever comes first.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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