The Porsche M 55.02 is a 3,192 cc, water‑cooled flat‑six petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2008. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and Bosch Motronic ME7.8 sequential fuel injection with VarioCam Plus variable valve timing. In standard form it delivered 188 kW (255 PS) at 6,200 rpm, with peak torque of 310 Nm at 4,800 rpm.
Fitted to the Porsche Boxster S (987) and Cayman S (987) models globally, the M 55.02 offered enhanced performance over the base…
Production years 2005–2008 meet Euro 4 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9456).
The Porsche M 55.02 is a 3,192 cc flat‑six DOHC petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented mid-engine sports applications (2005–2008). It combines water cooling with VarioCam Plus variable valve timing and sequential fuel injection to deliver strong mid‑range response and high‑revving character. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances track-capable output with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,192 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 98 min) | |
Configuration | Flat‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
Power output | 188 kW (255 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
Torque | 310 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.8 sequential injection with VarioCam Plus | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with VarioCam Plus hydraulic phasers | |
Oil type | Porsche A40 (SAE 5W-40) | |
Dry weight | 180 kg |
The Porsche M 55.02 was used across Porsche's 987 Boxster S and 987 Cayman S platforms with mid-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor running changes—revised VarioCam solenoid seals in 2007–2008 and updated ECU maps—and was replaced in 2009 by the direct-injection M97/22. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M 55.02's primary reliability risk is VarioCam actuator solenoid failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or infrequently serviced examples. Porsche internal service data from 2007 indicated over 12% of 2005–2006 engines required VarioCam repairs before 100,000 km, while owner surveys link cam timing faults to oil contamination. Extended oil change intervals and use of non-spec oil accelerate wear, making OEM-spec oil and solenoid inspection critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2005–2008) and owner association failure logs (2009–2020). 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 55.02 offers strong performance and refinement but early 2005–2006 units are susceptible to VarioCam solenoid issues. Later models include minor revisions. With regular oil changes using 5W-40 A40 oil and VarioCam awareness, well-maintained examples are dependable for enthusiasts.
Top issues include VarioCam solenoid/phaser wear, rear main seal leaks, Bosch sensor drift, and valve cover seepage. These are well-documented in Porsche service bulletins. The VarioCam system is the most critical and requires clean oil to function reliably.
Exclusively the 2005–2008 Porsche Boxster S (987) and 2006–2008 Cayman S (987), both rated at 255 PS. It was replaced in 2009 by the direct-injection M97/22. No cross-manufacturer usage exists.
Yes. Common upgrades include ECU remaps and performance exhausts, yielding 280–290 PS. The stock internals handle moderate tuning well, but aggressive remaps risk head gasket or bearing wear. Most owners achieve reliable gains with stage 1 tuning.
Approximately 12–14 L/100km (20–24 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can reach 9.5 L/100km (30 mpg UK), while aggressive use exceeds 16 L/100km due to the 3.2L displacement and performance gearing.
Yes. The Porsche M 55.02 is an interference engine. If the timing chains fail or VarioCam phasers jam, pistons will contact open valves, causing severe internal damage. Regular oil changes and solenoid inspection are essential.
Porsche specifies 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting Porsche A40 standard. This viscosity ensures cam, phaser, and bearing protection under high-RPM stress. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or annually.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
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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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