The Porsche M 28.41 is a 3,164 cc, water‑cooled V8 petrol engine produced between 1984 and 1986. It features a 90‑degree V8 layout, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 32 valves, and Bosch LH — Jetronic fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 215 kW (292 PS) at 6,400 rpm, with peak torque of 310 Nm at 4,500 rpm.
Fitted exclusively to the Porsche 928 S2, the M 28.41 was engineered for refined grand touring with a blend of high‑revving performance and smooth torque delivery. Emi…
Production years 1984–1986 meet US EPA Tier 1 standards; European variants meet Euro 1 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7890).
The Porsche M 28.41 is a 3,164 cc V8 DOHC petrol engine engineered for high‑performance grand touring applications (1984–1986). It combines water cooling with Bosch LH-Jetronic fuel injection and a cross‑plane crankshaft to deliver smooth, linear power and high‑revving character. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 1 and Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances sporting dynamics with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,164 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 98 min) | |
Configuration | V8, DOHC, 32‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 73.0 mm | |
Power output | 215 kW (292 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
Torque | 310 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch LH-Jetronic electronic fuel injection | |
Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 1; Euro 1 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt-driven DOHC (dual belts) | |
Oil type | Porsche A40 (SAE 10W-60) | |
Dry weight | 210 kg |
The Porsche M 28.41 was used exclusively in Porsche's 928 platform with front-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor running changes—revised tensioner pulleys in 1985–1986 models and updated LH-Jetronic calibration—and from 1986 was replaced by the larger M 28.42 (5.0L). All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 28.41's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples. Porsche internal service data from 1986 indicated over 20% of pre-06/1985 928 S2s required pulley replacement before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data links timing-related advisories to improper service intervals. Extended oil change cycles and high ambient temperatures accelerate bearing wear, making OEM-spec pulley upgrades and strict belt replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1984–1986) 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 M 28.41 offers smooth, refined V8 performance but demands disciplined maintenance. Early units (pre-06/1985) are prone to timing pulley failure; later models are improved. Regular belt changes every 60,000 km, correct 10W-60 oil, and airflow meter inspection are essential for longevity.
Top issues include timing belt tensioner pulley failure, LH-Jetronic airflow meter drift, valve cover oil leaks, and water pump impeller degradation. These are well-documented in Porsche service bulletins. The front-engine layout exposes components to higher under-hood temperatures, accelerating wear.
Exclusively the 928 S2 from 1984 to 1986 in all markets (US, EU, ROW). It was never used in the 911, 944, or 924—only the front-engine 928 platform with 3.2L displacement.
Yes. Common upgrades include performance chips, free-flow exhaust, and higher-flow injectors, yielding 320–340 PS. However, the stock internals have limits—aggressive tuning risks detonation without forged pistons. Most enthusiasts focus on driveability rather than extreme power due to the engine’s grand touring nature.
Approximately 14–17 L/100km (17–20 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can reach 11 L/100km (26 mpg UK), but aggressive use exceeds 20 L/100km due to V8 displacement and high-revving character.
Yes. The Porsche M 28.41 is an interference engine. If the timing belt fails, pistons will collide with open valves, causing severe internal damage. Strict adherence to belt replacement intervals is non-negotiable.
Porsche specifies 10W-60 synthetic oil meeting Porsche A40 standard. This high-viscosity oil is critical for bearing protection under V8 heat and high-RPM stress. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or annually.
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