The Porsche M28.11 is a 2,849 cc, water — cooled V6 petrol engine produced between 1982 and 1986. It features a 90‑degree V6 layout, Bosch K — Jetronic mechanical fuel injection, and a single — row timing chain driving dual overhead camshafts per bank. Output was rated at 132 kW (180 PS) @ 5,600 rpm and 235 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth mid — range delivery in front — engine applications.
Fitted exclusively to the Porsche 924 Carrera GT and limited 944 models for homologatio…
Production years 1982–1986 meet EU Directive 70/220/EEC (Euro pre-1) standards depending on market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6321).
The Porsche M28.11 is a 2,849 cc 90-degree V6 petrol engine engineered for high-revving GT applications (1982–1986). It combines Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical injection with dual overhead camshafts to deliver linear power and race-derived responsiveness. Designed to meet pre-Euro emissions thresholds, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability over electronic control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,849 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 minimum, RON 98 recommended) | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 76.0 mm | |
Power output | 132 kW (180 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
Torque | 235 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch K-Jetronic mechanical continuous injection | |
Emissions standard | EU Directive 70/220/EEC (pre-Euro 1) | |
Compression ratio | 9.7:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Single-row chain with hydraulic tensioner and phenolic/nylon guides | |
Oil type | SAE 10W-40 synthetic (Porsche A40 spec) | |
Dry weight | 168 kg |
The Porsche M28.11 was used exclusively in the Porsche 924 platform with front-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine was developed specifically for the homologation-special 924 Carrera GT and select 944 Competition variants, featuring dry-sump lubrication, higher compression, and race-tuned exhaust. From 1986, the M28.11 was superseded by the M44/40 in the 944 S. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M28.11's primary reliability risk is timing chain tensioner rail failure, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or track use. Porsche internal service data (1985) indicated timing repairs in over 15% of early-build units before 90,000 km, while DVSA historic MOT reports cite frequent idle instability and emissions faults in UK-registered examples due to degraded K-Jetronic components. Sustained high-load operation without rail upgrades makes timing integrity and fuel calibration critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1982–1986) and UK DVSA historic MOT failure statistics (1990–2022). 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 M28.11 offers race-bred performance but demands disciplined maintenance. Early builds (1982–mid-1984) are prone to timing rail failure, while post-TSB revisions improved durability. With upgraded rails, proper oil, and K-Jetronic care, it can be reliable. Many competition examples exceed 120,000 km with rebuilds.
Top issues include timing chain tensioner rail fracture, K-Jetronic calibration drift, oil cooler seal leaks, and exhaust manifold stud corrosion. All are documented in Porsche TSBs. Fuel system degradation is frequent in neglected examples.
Exclusively the 924 Carrera GT (1982–1986) and limited 944 Competition variants (1984–1985). It was never used in standard 924/944 models or non-Porsche vehicles. The 944 S (1987+) uses the unrelated M44/40 engine.
Yes. Common upgrades include ported heads, aggressive cams, and fuel system recalibration. Stage 1 gains (~200 PS) are achievable. However, the 9.7:1 compression limits forced induction; naturally aspirated builds benefit most. Dry-sump system supports high-G cornering.
Moderate for its era. Expect 12–14 L/100km (19–23 mpg UK) in mixed driving. High-RPM use and mechanical injection reduce efficiency. Aggressive driving can exceed 16 L/100km.
Yes. The M28.11 is an interference V6 due to tight piston-to-valve clearance at TDC. If timing chain fails or jumps, severe valve and piston damage is likely. Tensioner rail integrity is critical.
Porsche specifies 10W-40 synthetic meeting A40 (or ACEA A3/B3) with high detergent content. Change every 10,000 km or annually. ZDDP additives are beneficial for cam lobe protection under high-load conditions.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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