The Porsche MA1.01 is a 2,981 cc, water-cooled flat‑six petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2012. It features a horizontally opposed layout, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and direct fuel injection (DFI) with Bosch Motronic MED17.2. Output was rated at 257 kW (350 PS) @ 6,400 rpm and 390 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive high-RPM performance with improved fuel efficiency over its port-injected predecessors.
Fitted exclusively to the Porsche Boxster S and Cayman S (987.2) models, the MA1.01 marked Porsche’s shift to gasoline direct injection in the flat-six lineup. Emissions compliance was achieved through stratified charge combustion, variable valve timing, and close-coupled catalytic converters, meeting EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Euro 5) standards.
One documented concern is carbon buildup on intake valves due to the absence of fuel-washing from direct injection, leading to rough idle and reduced airflow. This issue, referenced in Porsche Technical Service Bulletin 987/TSB/10-06, is common to all early DFI flat-six engines and requires periodic intake cleaning to maintain performance.
Production years 2009–2012 meet EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Euro 5) standards depending on market (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8125).
The Porsche MA1.01 is a 2,981 cc flat-six DOHC petrol engine engineered for mid-engine sports applications (2009–2012). It combines gasoline direct injection (DFI) with VarioCam Plus variable valve timing to deliver crisp throttle response and enhanced fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions thresholds, it represents Porsche’s first generation of direct-injected flat-six engines.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,981 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 minimum, RON 98 recommended) | |
| Configuration | Flat‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 95.0 mm × 70.4 mm | |
| Power output | 257 kW (350 PS) @ 6,400 rpm | |
| Torque | 390 Nm @ 4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (DFI), Bosch piezo injectors (200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Euro 5) | |
| Compression ratio | 12.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Gear-driven intermediate shafts with VarioCam Plus (hydraulic phasing) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-40 synthetic (Porsche C30 spec) | |
| Dry weight | 180 kg |
The direct injection system enables high 12.5:1 compression and improved fuel economy but eliminates fuel-washing of intake valves, leading to carbon accumulation over time. Strict 15,000 km oil changes using Porsche C30–spec 5W-40 oil are essential for cam phasing and chain health. Use only RON 98 fuel to prevent knock under load. Intake cleaning is recommended every 60,000–80,000 km to restore airflow and idle quality. Unlike port-injected predecessors, fuel additives do not prevent intake coking—mechanical cleaning is required. VarioCam actuators are sensitive to oil contamination; maintain oil quality to avoid phasing faults.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche C30–compliant 5W-40 synthetic oil (Porsche Lubricants Bulletin LB-09-18). Low-SAPS formulation protects emissions systems.
Emissions: Meets Euro 5 (EU Regulation 715/2007) across all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8125).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Output assumes RON 98 fuel and functional DFI system (Porsche TIS Doc. MA1-TB-2011).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs MA1-TB-2009, FI-09-27, MA1-TB-2011
Porsche Technical Service Bulletin 987/TSB/10-06
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8125)
EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
The Porsche MA1.01 was used in the Porsche 987.2 platform with mid-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine powered the facelifted Boxster S and Cayman S from 2009 to 2012, featuring direct injection, higher compression, and revised exhaust manifolds over the M97. From 2013, the 981 platform adopted the MA1.20. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Engine type ‘MA1.01’ is cast into the right-side crankcase below the exhaust manifold (Porsche WIS 135.20). The presence of a high-pressure fuel pump on the right cylinder head and Bosch MED17.2 ECU (Part No. 0 285 002 011) confirms identity. VIN 7th digit ‘6’ with 10th digit ‘A’ denotes 987.2 Boxster S; ‘5’ with ‘A’ denotes Cayman S. Critical differentiation from M97: MA1.01 uses direct injection rails, higher compression pistons, and unique catalytic converter housings. Service parts for fuel and valvetrain are not interchangeable with M97 engines (Porsche TSB 987/TSB/11-02).
The MA1.01's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup due to direct injection architecture, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for frequent short trips. Porsche internal service data (2013) indicated intake cleaning in over 18% of 987.2 engines before 80,000 km, while DVSA MOT records cite occasional cam phasing faults in UK examples due to oil sludge affecting VarioCam actuators. Extended oil intervals and low-quality fuel accelerate carbon and sludge formation.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2009–2012) and UK DVSA historic MOT failure statistics (2014–2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE MA1-01.
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