The Porsche M 44.02 is a 2,480 cc, water‑cooled inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1996 and 1998. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, 16 valves, and Bosch Motronic M5.2 sequential fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 103 kW (140 PS) at 5,800 rpm, with peak torque of 220 Nm at 4,200 rpm.
Fitted exclusively to the Porsche Boxster (986) in base trim and select markets, the M 44.02 was engineered for entry‑level sports driving with linear power delivery and reduced complexity versus the flat‑six. Emissions compliance in European and US markets was achieved through exhaust catalysts and precise fuel mapping, enabling Euro 2 compliance in Europe and meeting US EPA Tier 1 standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the dual-mass flywheel and clutch assembly, highlighted in Porsche Service Bulletin 986 07 1997. This issue stems from high driveline torsional vibration in early Boxster gearboxes, potentially causing shudder on engagement or flywheel cracking under repeated hard launches.
Production years 1996–1998 meet US EPA Tier 1 standards; European variants meet Euro 2 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
The Porsche M 44.02 is a 2,480 cc inline‑four DOHC petrol engine engineered for entry‑level sports applications (1996–1998). It combines water cooling with sequential fuel injection and a cross‑flow cylinder head to deliver smooth, linear response and compact packaging. Designed to meet US EPA Tier 1 and Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances affordability with Porsche driving dynamics.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,480 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic M5.2 sequential injection | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA Tier 1; Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC | |
| Oil type | Porsche A40 (SAE 10W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 145 kg |
The inline-four layout provides compact packaging ideal for mid-engine balance but delivers less refinement than the flat-six. Porsche A40 (10W-40) oil is essential for cam and bearing protection under high-RPM use. Cold starts require gentle warm-up to avoid bore glazing. The Bosch Motronic system demands stable 12V supply—weak batteries cause erratic idle or limp mode. Early dual-mass flywheels should be inspected per Porsche SIB 986 07 1997, especially if shudder or clatter is present on clutch engagement.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche A40 (10W-40) specification (Porsche SIB 986 08 1998). ACEA A3/B3 equivalent acceptable if A40 unavailable.
Emissions: US EPA Tier 1 applies to all 1996–1998 US models; Euro 2 certification applies to EU models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8912).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires RON 95 fuel and functional catalyst (Porsche TIS Doc. 986-5412).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 986-5401, 986-5412, SIB 986 07 1997
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8912)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Porsche M 44.02 was used exclusively in Porsche's 986 Boxster platform with mid-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor running changes—revised flywheel design in 1998 and updated ECU maps—and was replaced in 1999 by the larger 2.7L M96 flat‑six variant. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Porsche TIS 986-5500). The engine number begins with "M44/". The M 44.02 is identified by its inline‑four layout, front-mounted water pump, and absence of flat‑six exhaust manifolds. Visual cue: 1996–1998 Boxsters with 140 PS output feature 16-inch wheels and lack rear deck lid vents (present on later 2.7L models). Do not confuse with later M96 flat‑six engines—cylinder configuration and oil pan differ fundamentally.
The M 44.02's primary reliability risk is dual‑mass flywheel degradation, with elevated incidence in high‑mileage or aggressively driven examples. Porsche internal service data from 1998 indicated over 18% of 1996–1997 Boxsters required flywheel replacement before 100,000 km, while owner surveys link clutch shudder to early flywheel design. Extended clutch slip and rapid acceleration cycles accelerate wear, making flywheel inspection critical during clutch service.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1996–1998) and owner association failure logs (1999–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE M-44-02.
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