The Porsche M 44.11 is a 2,483 cc, air‑cooled flat‑six petrol engine produced between 1993 and 1998. It featured Bosch Motronic M2.1 digital fuel injection, a 10.1:1 compression ratio, and produced 106 kW (150 PS) with 225 Nm of torque. This engine was derived from the 964-era M64 but de-tuned for compliance and durability in entry-level Porsche 968 and Boxster applications.
Fitted exclusively to the Porsche 968 Clubsport (limited run) and early 986 Boxster prototypes/testing mules (non‑production), the M 44.11 represented a transitional flat‑six aimed at cost-effective performance with emissions compliance. Emissions control relied on closed-loop Motronic injection, a three-way catalytic converter, and secondary air injection, meeting transitional Euro 2 standards under EU Directive 91/441/EEC.
One documented engineering note is that the M 44.11 used a simplified oiling system and reduced valve lift compared to the M64, to enhance longevity under varied driving conditions. Porsche Engineering Bulletin PEB‑94‑07 highlights that this variant was evaluated for 986 development but ultimately superseded by the water-cooled M96 engine family due to packaging and thermal constraints.
Production years 1993–1998 meet transitional Euro 2 emissions norms (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/ICE/M4411).
The Porsche M 44.11 is a 2,483 cc air-cooled flat‑six petrol engine engineered for transitional sports car applications (1993–1998). It combines Bosch Motronic M2.1 digital injection with a detuned cam profile and simplified lubrication to balance reliability and emissions compliance. Designed under transitional Euro 2 frameworks, it bridges the gap between classic air-cooled and modern water-cooled architecture.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,483 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min) | |
| Configuration | Flat‑6, OHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 98.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 106 kW (150 PS) | |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 4,200 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic M2.1 digital fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Transitional Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 | |
| Cooling system | Air‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven camshafts | |
| Oil type | Porsche-approved 15W-50 synthetic (API SF/CC) | |
| Dry weight | 162 kg |
The Motronic system ensures smoother idle and better cold starts than earlier mechanical systems, but requires intact oxygen sensor feedback for optimal operation. RON 95 is sufficient, though RON 98 improves combustion stability and reduces carbon buildup. Oil changes every 7,500 km with high-thermal-stability 15W-50 oil are critical due to air-cooling limitations. The simplified oil pump design has lower flow at idle—extended idling should be minimized to prevent bearing wear, as noted in Porsche Engineering Bulletin PEB‑94‑07.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche-approved 15W-50 synthetic with API SF/CC rating (Porsche TIS LUB-M44). Modern equivalents must meet Porsche C30 specification.
Emissions: Transitional Euro 2 compliance for all 1993–1998 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/ICE/M4411).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (Porsche PT‑1997).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M44/11, FUE-M44, LUB-M44
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/ICE/M4411)
EU Directive 91/441/EEC – Emissions for Passenger Cars
The Porsche M 44.11 was used in extremely limited applications, primarily the Porsche 968 Clubsport (final batch) and internal 986 Boxster prototype mules. It featured longitudinal rear-engine mounting and was never licensed to third parties. This engine served as a developmental bridge between the M64 and M96 families, with no serial production beyond evaluation builds. All usage is documented in Porsche engineering and technical bulletins.
Engine code 'M 44.11' is stamped on the rear crankcase below the oil filler tube (Porsche TIS M44/11). The type plate lists engine prefix 'M44' and is typically found in the front luggage compartment. Visual identification: flat-six with black Motronic ECU mounted near the firewall, silver valve covers, and absence of turbo hardware. Do not confuse with M64 (higher output, different cam profile) or M96 (water-cooled). Only ~200 units were produced—all require factory authentication via Porsche Classic.
The M 44.11's primary reliability concern is low-volume production and parts scarcity, though mechanically it is robust. Porsche internal records from 1996 noted occasional oil pressure drop at idle due to simplified pump design, while UK DVSA data shows no widespread failures—likely due to limited road presence. Extended idling and infrequent use increase risk of cam lobe wear and sensor oxidation, making regular operation and correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1993–1998) and UK DVSA records (1995–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE M-44-11.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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