The Porsche M 96.26 is a 3,596 cc, water‑cooled flat‑six petrol engine produced between 2001 and 2005. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and Bosch Motronic ME7.8 sequential fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 221 kW (300 PS) at 6,200 rpm, with peak torque of 370 Nm at 4,600 rpm.
Fitted to the Porsche 911 (996) Carrera 4S and Turbo S (X50 option) in select global markets, the M 96.26 provided enhanced displacement and output over the base 3.6L M96.05, with strengthened internals for higher specific output. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel mapping and catalytic converters, enabling Euro 3 compliance across approved regions.
One documented concern is elevated stress on the Nikasil-coated cylinder liners under high thermal loads, highlighted in Porsche Service Bulletin 996 12 2002. This issue stems from thermal expansion mismatch in early bore coatings, potentially leading to scuffing or loss of compression if lubrication is marginal or oil changes are extended.
Production years 2001–2005 meet Euro 3 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9210).
The Porsche M 96.26 is a 3,596 cc flat‑six DOHC petrol engine engineered for high-performance sports applications (2001–2005). It combines water cooling with reinforced internals and sequential fuel injection to deliver elevated power in the 996 Carrera 4S and Turbo S (X50) variants. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances track-capable output with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,596 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 98 min) | |
| Configuration | Flat‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 99.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 221 kW (300 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 370 Nm @ 4,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.8 sequential injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with intermediate shaft (IMS) | |
| Oil type | Porsche A40 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 188 kg |
The enlarged 3.6L displacement delivers strong top-end power but increases thermal load on cylinder liners. Porsche A40 (5W-40) oil is essential for maintaining film strength under high-RPM stress. Extended oil change intervals or low-viscosity oil can accelerate bore wear in early Nikasil-coated blocks. Cold starts should be followed by gentle warm-up, and aggressive driving avoided until oil reaches 80°C. Post-2003 engines feature improved liner coating per Porsche SIB 996 12 2002.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche A40 (5W-40) specification (Porsche SIB 996 13 2003). ACEA A3/B4 equivalent acceptable if A40 unavailable.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 2001–2005 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9210).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Peak output requires RON 98 fuel and functional catalyst (Porsche TIS Doc. 996-6112).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 996-6101, 996-6112, SIB 996 12 2002
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9210)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Porsche M 96.26 was used in select Porsche 996 variants with rear-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor running changes—revised cylinder bore coating from 2003 onward and updated crankcase ventilation—and was exclusive to performance-oriented models like the Carrera 4S and Turbo S (X50 option). All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the rear crankcase near the flywheel housing (Porsche TIS 996-6300). The engine number begins with "96/". The M 96.26 is identified by its 3.6L displacement, DOHC layout, and absence of turbocharging (in non-Turbo applications). Visual cue: Carrera 4S models feature wide-body styling and all-wheel-drive badging. Do not confuse with M96.05 (base 3.6L)—M 96.26 has higher compression and reinforced internals for 300 PS output.
The M 96.26's primary reliability risk is bore scuffing in early Nikasil-coated blocks, with elevated incidence in high-RPM or infrequently maintained examples. Porsche internal data from 2003 indicated a measurable share of 2001–2002 engines exhibited compression loss before 100,000 km, while owner logs link oil consumption spikes to liner wear. Extended oil intervals and aggressive driving accelerate degradation, making oil specification and thermal discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2001–2005) and owner association failure logs (2006–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE M-96-26.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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