The Porsche MCS.ZA is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four turbo‑petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2020. It marked Porsche’s shift toward smaller-displacement turbocharged powerplants, featuring direct fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a single twin-scroll turbocharger. In standard tune it delivered 184–221 kW (250–300 PS) with torque spanning 350–400 Nm, emphasizing responsiveness and daily usability.
Fitted primarily to the 718 Cayman and 718 Boxster (982 platform), the MCS.ZA was engineered for balanced performance, offering sharper throttle response and improved fuel efficiency over its naturally aspirated flat-six predecessors. Emissions compliance was achieved via port and direct injection (PFI+GDI), variable valve timing, and a close-coupled catalytic converter, allowing adherence to Euro 6 standards from launch.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, leading to misfires and hard starts. This issue, highlighted in Porsche Technical Service Bulletin 9120/2018, is often linked to fuel quality and thermal stress on the cam-driven pump mechanism. In 2019, Porsche introduced a revised HPFP and updated camshaft lobe profile for improved durability.
All production years (2014–2020) meet Euro 6 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Porsche MCS.ZA is a 1,998 cc inline‑four turbo‑petrol engineered for lightweight sports models (2014–2020). It combines direct and port fuel injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver linear torque and responsive acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 6 from launch, it balances track-ready performance with real-world efficiency and emissions control.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 184–221 kW (250–300 PS) | |
| Torque | 350–400 Nm @ 1,900–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Combined port and direct injection (PFI+GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit layout | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll (Honeywell Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | Porsche C3 (SAE 0W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The twin‑scroll turbo delivers near-instant torque with minimal lag, ideal for spirited road driving. However, the HPFP is sensitive to low-quality petrol and thermal cycling—using only EN 228-compliant fuel is essential. The cam-driven fuel pump relies on precise oil film integrity; extended oil intervals or incorrect viscosity (e.g., non-C3 oils) accelerate wear. Porsche recommends oil changes every 15,000 km or 12 months. Vehicles built before 08/2019 should have HPFP and camshaft inspected per SIB 9120/2018. Carbon buildup is rare due to port injection assisting valve cleaning.
Oil Specs: Requires Porsche C3 (0W‑40) specification (Porsche SIB 9150/2017). Equivalent to BMW LL‑04 and ACEA C3.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all MCS.ZA models (2014–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No market exceptions.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 221 kW output requires RON 98 fuel (Porsche TIS Doc. 982-ENG-005).
Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 982-ENG-001, 982-ENG-003, 982-ENG-005
Porsche Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 9120/2018, 9150/2017
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles – Engine test code
The Porsche MCS.ZA was used across Porsche's 982 platform with mid-engine longitudinal mounting and exclusively in sports cars. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-lightweight oil pan for ground clearance in the 718 Boxster and reinforced mounts in the 718 Cayman-and from 2019 the facelifted GTS 4.0 models retained the flat-six, but MCS.ZA variants received updated emissions hardware, creating minor ECU/calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left-side engine block near the exhaust manifold (Porsche TIS 982-ENG-105). The 7th VIN digit is ‘Z’ for MCS.ZA (982 platform). Pre-2019 engines use HPFP part number 992.128.156.00; post-2019 units use 992.128.156.01 with reinforced internals. Visual ID: black valve cover with ‘Porsche’ in raised lettering; twin-scroll turbo visible from rear. ECU is Bosch MDG7 mounted near firewall—calibration files differentiate 250 PS vs 300 PS variants.
The MCS.ZA's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump wear on pre-2019 builds, with elevated incidence in hot climates and frequent short-trip usage. Porsche internal field data from 2019 showed a notable rate of HPFP replacements before 60,000 km in affected batches, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures thanks to robust GPF integration. Thermal stress and fuel quality make adherence to OEM oil and petrol specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE MCS-ZA.
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