The Porsche 930.19 is a 2,994 cc, air‑cooled flat‑six turbocharged petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1989. It features a single KKK turbocharger, Bosch mechanical fuel injection (K-Jetronic until 1983; later models used DME), and an air-cooled architecture with finned cylinders and oil-cooled heads. In standard form it delivered 221 kW (300 PS) in the 1986–1989 iteration, with torque peaking at 453 Nm.
Fitted exclusively to the 930-series 911 Turbo and its variants (including the 930/50 US market model), the 930.19 was engineered for high-performance grand touring with a focus on driver engagement. Emissions compliance in later models was achieved through catalytic converters and revised fuel mapping, enabling compliance with US EPA standards and Euro 1 in European markets.
One well-documented reliability concern is crankcase pressure buildup due to blow-by from the high-boost turbo system, noted in Porsche Service Bulletin 930 02 1987. This issue is exacerbated by worn piston rings and inadequate crankcase ventilation, potentially leading to oil leaks and seal failure. From 1986, Porsche reinforced the intercooler system and updated the oil breather assembly.
Production years 1975–1985 meet US EPA Tier 1 standards; 1986–1989 models meet Euro 1 depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Porsche 930.19 is a 2,994 cc flat‑six turbocharged petrol engine engineered for high‑performance sports applications (1975–1989). It combines air cooling with oil‑cooled cylinder heads and a single KKK turbocharger to deliver strong mid‑range thrust and track‑capable output. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 1 and later Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances raw performance with evolving regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,994 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 98 min) | |
| Configuration | Flat‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 70.4 mm | |
| Power output | 221 kW (300 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 453 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch K-Jetronic (1975–1983); DME Motronic (1984–1989) | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 1 (pre-1986); Euro 1 (1986–1989) | |
| Compression ratio | 7.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Air-cooled (oil-cooled heads) | |
| Turbocharger | Single KKK K27 (1975–1989) | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Porsche A40 (SAE 15W-50) | |
| Dry weight | 195 kg |
The K27 turbocharger delivers significant boost lag but strong top-end thrust, requiring careful throttle management. Porsche A40 (15W-50) oil is critical due to its high-temperature stability under air-cooling and turbo stress. Extended idling should be avoided to prevent oil coking in turbo bearings. The engine’s low compression ratio makes it tolerant of lower-octane fuel under load, but RON 98 minimizes detonation risk. Post-1986 models with Motronic benefit from improved idle stability and emissions response. Oil leaks are common at the rear main seal and cam covers—regular inspection is essential.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche A40 (15W-50) specification (Porsche SIB 930 04 1988). ACEA A3/B3 equivalent acceptable if A40 unavailable.
Emissions: US EPA Tier 1 applies to 1975–1985 US models; Euro 1 certification applies to 1986–1989 EU models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires RON 98 fuel and functional intercooler (Porsche TIS Doc. 930-7912).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 930-7891, 930-7912, SIB 930 02 1987
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Porsche 930.19 was used exclusively in Porsche's 930 platform with rear-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised intercoolers in the 1986–1989 models and strengthened crankcase ventilation—and from 1984 the switch to DME Motronic fuel injection, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the rear crankcase near the oil pump flange (Porsche TIS 930-8100). The engine number begins with "930/". Pre-1984 models use K-Jetronic (mechanical CIS fuel system with no ECU); post-1984 models have a DME control unit under the passenger seat and electronic throttle. Visual cue: 1986–1989 models feature integrated intercooler ("whale tail" spoiler with slats). Do not interchange turbos or ECUs across model years—K27 variants differ in wastegate calibration (Porsche SIB 930 05 1986).
The 930.19's primary reliability risk is turbo oil coking and rear main seal failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Porsche internal service data from 1988 indicated over 30% of US-market 930s required turbo bearing service before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data links a notable share of MoT advisories to oil leaks from cam and crank seals. Extended idling and improper cooldown cycles accelerate degradation, making post-drive cooldown and correct oil spec critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1975–1989) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE 930-19.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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