The Porsche M 48.00 is a 2,687 cc, water-cooled flat‑six petrol engine produced between 2000 and 2005. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), VarioCam variable valve timing, and Bosch Motronic ME 7.8 electronic fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 177 kW (240 PS) and 290 Nm of torque, providing responsive performance with a linear powerband for the entry-level 911 models.
Fitted to the Porsche 911 (996) Carrera and Carrera 4 base variants, the M 48.00 was engineered to replace the older air-cooled units while delivering improved emissions, fuel economy, and refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved via a closed-loop three-way catalytic converter, secondary air injection, and precise lambda control, allowing compliance with Euro 3 standards across all markets from launch.
One documented concern is intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing wear in early production units, which in severe cases could lead to catastrophic engine failure. This issue, highlighted in Porsche Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑996‑02‑07, was linked to insufficient lubrication of the single-row ball bearing used in 2000–2001 engines. From mid-2001 onward, Porsche revised the IMS bearing design to a dual-row configuration to improve durability.
All production years (2000–2005) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4800).
The Porsche M 48.00 is a 2,687 cc flat‑six DOHC petrol engine engineered for the 996-generation 911 (2000–2005). It combines VarioCam variable valve timing with Bosch Motronic electronic injection to deliver smooth, linear power and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 3 from launch, it represents Porsche’s first water-cooled flat-six in the 911 lineage.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,687 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Flat‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 76.4 mm | |
| Power output | 177 kW (240 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 290 Nm @ 4,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME 7.8 electronic injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled with front-mounted radiator and oil cooler | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with VarioCam | |
| Oil type | Porsche C30 10W‑60 full synthetic | |
| Dry weight | 181 kg |
The M 48.00 delivers smooth, linear power ideal for spirited road use but requires vigilance regarding the intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing in early units (2000–mid-2001). Use of 98 RON fuel is essential to prevent knock under load due to the high 11.3:1 compression ratio. Oil changes every 10,000 km with Porsche C30–specified 10W‑60 full synthetic oil ensure proper cam and IMS lubrication. Engines built before August 2001 should be inspected for IMS risk; aftermarket support bearings or full replacements are recommended per TSB‑996‑02‑07.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche C30 10W‑60 full synthetic oil (Porsche SIB TSB‑996‑02‑07). ACEA A3/B4 oils are not sufficient for IMS and cam protection.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all model years (2000–2005) per VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/4800.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Power output assumes 98 RON fuel and optimal ignition timing (Porsche TIS Doc. 996‑PERF‑16).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 996‑ENG‑10, 996‑FUEL‑13, TSB‑996‑02‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/4800)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Porsche M 48.00 was used exclusively in Porsche's 996 platform with rear-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised oil pan baffling and updated IMS bearing from mid-2001—and from 2002 the X51 powerkit option offered enhanced output without altering core architecture, creating minor service nuances. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine type is stamped on the left rear crankcase near the flywheel housing (Porsche TIS 996‑ID‑08). The 10th VIN digit indicates model year; 996 VINs begin with WP0ZZZ99. Early M 48.00 engines (2000–mid-2001) have a single-row IMS bearing and silver cam covers; mid-2001–2005 units feature dual-row IMS bearings and black cam covers. Do not confuse with M 96/03 (3.4L) by displacement alone—M 48.00 always has 96.0 mm bore and unique crankcase casting number.
The M 48.00's primary reliability risk is intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing failure in early production units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently driven examples. Porsche internal service data from 2005 indicated IMS-related failures in ~8% of pre-August 2001 engines before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show secondary air injection and chain guide wear as secondary concerns. Extended oil change intervals and low-RPM urban use accelerate IMS degradation, making oil quality and driving pattern critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2000–2005) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE M-48-00.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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