The Porsche M 64.02 is a 3,600 cc, water‑cooled flat‑six petrol engine produced between 1994 and 1998. It featured Bosch Motronic 5.2 electronic fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a 24‑valve layout. In the 993 Carrera it delivered 206 kW (280 PS) and 340 Nm of torque, with a redline of 6,500 rpm.
Fitted exclusively to the 993-generation 911 Carrera and Carrera 4, the M 64.02 was engineered as the final evolution of Porsche’s air‑cooled lineage before the switch to water-cooling. Emissions compliance was achieved via exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), two catalytic converters, and precise lambda control, meeting Euro 2 standards under EU Directive 94/12/EC.
One documented concern is intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing wear, which in rare cases can lead to catastrophic engine failure. This issue is referenced in Porsche Technical Bulletin 993/03/95, which recommends inspection of bearing condition during major service intervals on early-build units.
Production years 1994–1998 meet Euro 2 emissions standards under EU Directive 94/12/EC (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9932).
The Porsche M 64.02 is a 3,600 cc flat‑six petrol engine engineered for the 993-generation 911 (1994–1998). It combines Bosch Motronic 5.2 engine management with DOHC architecture to deliver smooth power delivery and compliance with Euro 2 emissions. Designed as the pinnacle of Porsche’s air‑cooled era—though partially water‑cooled via cylinder head jackets—it balances heritage character with modern drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,600 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Flat‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 100.0 mm × 76.4 mm | |
| Power output | 206 kW (280 PS) | |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 5.2 sequential electronic injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Air-cooled block with water-cooled cylinder heads | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with hydraulic tensioners | |
| Oil type | Porsche Classic 10W‑60 or 10W‑40 (API SH/SG) | |
| Dry weight | 192 kg |
The DOHC flat-six layout delivers smooth, linear power but requires high-quality mineral or semi-synthetic oil (e.g., Porsche 10W-60) changed every 10,000 km. Early M 64.02 engines (pre-1996) used a dual-row IMS bearing prone to wear under low-load conditions; later units adopted a single-row design with improved longevity. Bosch Motronic 5.2 demands functional lambda sensors—replace every 80,000 km to prevent rich running and catalyst damage. While the engine block is air-cooled, the heads are water-jacketed, requiring periodic coolant flushes with Porsche G12+ fluid to prevent corrosion.
Oil Specs: Requires API SH/SG 10W-60 or 10W-40 (Porsche PT‑1996). Synthetic oils acceptable only if high-zinc and non-detergent.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification confirmed for all 1994–1998 M 64.02 engines (EU Directive 94/12/EC, VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9932).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020. Output consistent across all 993 Carrera variants (Porsche PT‑1996).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs P993‑M6402, SIB 993/03/95
EU Directive 94/12/EC on vehicle emissions
Porsche Parts Catalogue (ETK) 1998 Edition
The Porsche M 64.02 was used exclusively in Porsche's 993 platform with rear-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine powered the base Carrera and Carrera 4 variants, differing only in AWD drivetrain integration. From 1996, revised IMS bearing design was introduced, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right-side crankcase near the oil cooler—“M64/02” confirms this variant. The 993 features a distinctive multi-link rear suspension and integrated bumpers. M 64.02 is differentiated from earlier M 64.01 (3.3L 964) by dual overhead cams and Motronic 5.2 ECU (part #0 261 200 601). Do not confuse with M 64.20 (993 Turbo, twin-turbo) or M 96 (996 water-cooled successor).
The M 64.02's primary reliability risk is intermediate shaft (IMS) bearing wear, with elevated incidence in early-build (1994–1995) examples exceeding 60,000 km. Porsche internal analysis from 1997 indicated less than 2 % failure rate, but UK specialist data shows higher incidence in neglected-service cases. Extended oil change intervals accelerate bearing fatigue due to oil starvation, making oil quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (1994–1998) and UK specialist workshop data (1998–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE M-64-02.
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