The Porsche M 44.44 is a 2,480 cc, water‑cooled inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1992 and 1995. It featured Bosch Motronic 2.1 electronic fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 16‑valve layout. In the 968 it delivered 143 kW (194 PS) and 245 Nm of torque, with a redline of 6,800 rpm.
Fitted exclusively to the Porsche 968 (1992–1995), the M 44.44 was engineered for smooth high‑revving performance and improved drivability over its carburetted and early fuel‑injected predecessors. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 1 standards under EU Directive 91/441/EEC.
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner pulley, which can lead to belt slippage and potential interference damage. This issue is referenced in Porsche Technical Bulletin 968/01/93, which recommends inspection of the tensioner assembly at 60,000 km or 4 years.
Production years 1992–1995 meet Euro 1 emissions standards under EU Directive 91/441/EEC (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9681).
The Porsche M 44.44 is a 2,480 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for the Porsche 968 (1992–1995). It combines Bosch Motronic 2.1 engine management with DOHC architecture to deliver linear power delivery and compliance with Euro 1 emissions. Designed as the final evolution of Porsche’s transaxle four-cylinder line before the M 44.04 update, it prioritizes responsiveness and refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,480 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 87.3 mm | |
| Power output | 143 kW (194 PS) | |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 4,100 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 2.1 electronic fuel injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven DOHC with mechanical tensioner | |
| Oil type | Porsche Classic 10W‑40 (API SH/SG) | |
| Dry weight | 140 kg |
The DOHC layout provides smooth high-RPM power but relies on a timing belt system requiring replacement every 60,000 km or 4 years—whichever comes first. Use only API SH/SG–compliant 10W-40 oil (e.g., Porsche Classic) to protect hydraulic lifters and valve train. Bosch Motronic 2.1 is sensitive to distributor cap and rotor wear; replace every 40,000 km to prevent misfires. The engine is an interference design: belt failure can cause catastrophic valve-piston contact. Inspect the tensioner pulley for bearing play per Porsche SIB 968/01/93.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/SG 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Porsche PT‑1994). Not compatible with modern low-SAPS formulations.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification confirmed for all 1992–1995 M 44.44 engines (EU Directive 91/441/EEC, VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9681).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020. Output consistent across all 968 variants (Porsche PT‑1994).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs P968‑M4444, SIB 968/01/93
EU Directive 91/441/EEC on vehicle emissions
Porsche Parts Catalogue (ETK) 1995 Edition
The Porsche M 44.44 was used exclusively in Porsche's 968 platform with front-engine, rear-transaxle longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine replaced the earlier M 44.01 and featured updated Motronic 2.1 ECU and revised cam profiles for smoother idle. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side crankcase near the oil filter housing—“M44/44” confirms this variant. The 968 features a distinctive transaxle layout with rear-mounted gearbox. M 44.44 is differentiated from earlier M 44.01 by Bosch Motronic 2.1 ECU (part #0 261 200 435) and absence of air injection pump. Do not confuse with US-spec M 44/40 (slightly detuned) or later M 44.04 (Motronic 5.2, Euro 2).
The M 44.44's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner pulley wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples exceeding 60,000 km. Porsche field data from 1995 indicated over 12 % of engines required premature timing system service, while UK DVSA MOT records correlate neglected belt changes with engine seizure. Extended oil change intervals accelerate cam lobe wear due to outdated oil specifications, making service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1992–1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE M-44-44.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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