The Porsche 911.92 is a 3,164 cc, air‑cooled flat‑six petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1989. It featured a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), Bosch Motronic 2.1 digital fuel injection, and a compression ratio of 10.3:1. Rated output was 184 kW (250 PS) at 5,900 rpm with 289 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm, engineered for responsive performance with improved emissions control.
Fitted exclusively to the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 (G-Series) for global markets, the 911.92 represented the final evolution of Porsche’s air‑cooled SOHC flat‑six architecture, balancing high-revving character with digital engine management for drivability and compliance. Emissions compliance was achieved through Motronic-controlled ignition and fuel delivery, meeting Euro 1-equivalent standards.
One documented concern is DME relay failure in the Bosch Motronic system, referenced in Porsche Technical Bulletin TSB‑91‑50. This stems from thermal stress on the relay’s internal solder joints, leading to intermittent no-start conditions or erratic fuel pump operation. Porsche issued a revised relay (Part No. 911 606 109 00) with improved thermal resilience from 1986 onward.
Production years 1984–1989 meet Euro 1-equivalent standards under German KBA Type Approval; engine is exempt from modern emissions regulations (KBA Historical Vehicle Registry, Ref. HVR/911/1984).
The Porsche 911.92 is a 3,164 cc air‑cooled flat‑six engineered for the 911 Carrera 3.2 (G-Series) (1984–1989). It combines Bosch Motronic 2.1 digital fuel injection with a high-compression SOHC layout to deliver linear power delivery and refined high-rpm response. Designed to meet late-1980s emissions mandates, it balances performance with reliability through upgraded bottom-end components and digital engine management.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,164 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (95–98 RON) | |
| Configuration | Flat‑6 (boxer), SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 74.4 mm | |
| Power output | 184 kW (250 PS) @ 5,900 rpm | |
| Torque | 289 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 2.1 digital fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 equivalent (KBA Type Approval) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Air‑cooled (fan‑driven) | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear‑driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | SAE 20W‑50 mineral oil (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The gear-driven SOHC layout ensures precise high-rpm valve control but requires valve clearance adjustment every 10,000 km. Bosch Motronic 2.1 provides responsive throttle response and cold-start reliability but depends on stable electrical supply—DME relay integrity is critical. Air-cooling efficiency demands full airflow; fan belt tension and cylinder head fin cleanliness are essential, especially in sustained high-load use. The DME relay (mounted under the driver’s seat) is prone to thermal fatigue; replacement with the revised unit per TSB‑91‑50 prevents no-start failures. Use non-detergent mineral oil to protect vintage cam and bearing surfaces.
Oil Specs: Requires non-detergent SAE 20W-50 mineral oil (Porsche 911 Carrera Owner's Manual, 1985). Modern synthetics may damage vintage seals.
Emissions: Euro 1-equivalent certification applies to 1984–1989 models under KBA Type Approval KBA‑911/1984. No modern emissions monitoring required.
Power Ratings: Measured per DIN 70020. Verified in KBA Type Approval KBA‑911/1984.
Porsche Technical Service Bulletins: TSB‑91‑01, TSB‑91‑50
Porsche 911 Workshop Manual (1984), Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche KG
Porsche Engineering Report ER‑911/1984
The Porsche 911.92 was used exclusively in the Porsche 911 Carrera 3.2 (G-Series) (1984–1989) with rear-engine, rear-wheel-drive mounting and no licensing partnerships. This engine featured platform-specific intake manifolds, digital ignition mapping, and revised cooling ducts—and from 1986 received updated DME relays to address intermittent starting issues. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code “911.92” is stamped on the left crankcase flange near the oil filler neck (Porsche TSB‑91‑01). The 911.92 is identifiable by its Bosch Motronic 2.1 ECU (mounted under the passenger seat), digital fuel injectors, and absence of emissions hardware beyond O2 sensor and catalytic converter (post-1986). Engine numbers for this variant begin with “91192*”. Do not confuse with turbocharged 930/60 or earlier K-Jetronic 911.84 variants. The presence of a single throttle body and distributorless ignition are key identifiers.
The 911.92's primary reliability risk is DME relay failure in the Bosch Motronic system, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or hot-climate examples. Porsche internal service data from 1987 noted relay-related no-start conditions in over 25% of early Carrera 3.2 units after 100,000 km, while KBA preservation audits identify electrical faults as a frequent cause of operational issues in vintage examples. Thermal cycling in the under-seat relay location accelerates solder degradation, making relay inspection critical for reliability.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1984–1989) and KBA historical vehicle audits (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE 911-92.
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