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 varia…
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 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.
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.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The 930.19 offers thrilling performance but demands disciplined maintenance. Early models (1975–1983) suffer from boost lag and heat issues; later (1984–1989) units are more refined but still prone to oil leaks and turbo wear. With proper cooldowns, correct oil (15W-50 A40), and regular seal inspection, it can be dependable for enthusiasts.
Top issues include turbo oil coking, rear main seal leaks, cam cover seepage, and (in 1984–1989 models) DME electrical faults. These are well-documented in Porsche service bulletins. Cooling system limitations also mean overheating risk in traffic without auxiliary fans.
Exclusively the 911 Turbo (930) from 1975 to 1989, including US-spec 930/50 and EU wide-body 930/80 variants. It was never used in the 912, 924, 928, or 944—only the rear-engine 930 platform.
Yes, but cautiously. Stage 1 (boost increase, fuel enrichment) yields ~330–350 PS. However, the air-cooled design has thermal limits—aggressive tuning risks detonation or oil breakdown. Most upgrades include larger intercoolers, oil coolers, and forged internals for reliability above 350 PS.
Approximately 14–16 L/100km (17–20 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can reach 12 L/100km (24 mpg UK), but aggressive use exceeds 20 L/100km. These figures reflect the engine’s low compression and turbo lag requiring frequent throttle input.
No. The Porsche 930.19 is a non-interference (free-running) flat-six. If the timing gears fail—which is rare due to their robust design—the pistons and valves do not collide, reducing catastrophic failure risk.
Porsche specifies 15W-50 synthetic oil meeting Porsche A40 standard. This high-viscosity oil is critical for bearing protection under high heat and turbo stress. Change intervals should not exceed 7,500 km or 6 months in performance use.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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