Engine Code

PORSCHE MDD-PB engine (2021–2023) – Specs, Problems & Compatibility Database

The Porsche MDD.PB is a 3,996 cc, V8 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2021 and 2023. It features a 90-degree bank angle, direct fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a flat-plane crankshaft derived from motorsport development. In standard tune it delivers 441–478 kW (600–650 PS) with torque ranging from 480–500 Nm, optimized for track-focused responsiveness and acoustic intensity.

Fitted exclusively to the 911 GT3 RS (992) and limited-run 911 GT3 R (road homologation), the MDD.PB was engineered for uncompromising performance with road legality. Emissions compliance was achieved via port-assisted direct injection, variable valve timing on intake and exhaust, and a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), ensuring adherence to Euro 6d standards from launch.

A documented concern involves premature wear of the intake camshaft lobe surfaces under extreme thermal cycling, potentially causing valve train noise and reduced lift accuracy. This issue, highlighted in Porsche Service Information Bulletin 9840/2023, is linked to marginal case-hardening depth in early production camshafts. From 11/2022, Porsche implemented revised camshafts with improved surface treatment.

Porsche Engine
Compliance Note:

All production years (2021–2023) meet Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9390).

MDD-PB Technical Specifications

The Porsche MDD.PB is a 3,996 cc V8 naturally aspirated petrol engineered for ultimate track performance with road compliance (2021–2023). It combines a motorsport-derived flat-plane crankshaft with port and direct injection to deliver explosive throttle response and linear power. Designed to meet Euro 6d from launch, it integrates a GPF without compromising high-RPM durability or acoustic purity.

ParameterValueSource
Displacement3,996 cc
Fuel typePetrol
ConfigurationV8, DOHC, 32-valve, 90° bank angle, flat-plane crank
AspirationNaturally aspirated
Bore × stroke102.0 mm × 60.8 mm
Power output441–478 kW (600–650 PS) @ 8,500 rpm
Torque480–500 Nm @ 6,400–7,200 rpm
Fuel systemCombined port and direct injection (PFI+GDI)
Emissions standardEuro 6d
Compression ratio13.9:1
Cooling systemWater-cooled with dual-circuit layout
TurbochargerNone
Timing systemChain-driven DOHC with hydraulic cam phasers
Oil typePorsche C3 (SAE 0W‑40)
Dry weight216 kg
Practical Implications

The flat-plane crank enables an 8,500 rpm redline and race-derived throttle response but demands strict adherence to RON 98 fuel and Porsche C3 oil. Oil changes every 10,000 km or 12 months are critical, especially for circuit use. Pre-11/2022 engines should have camshafts inspected per SIB 9840/2023. The GPF requires periodic high-RPM driving to prevent clogging, though carbon buildup is rare due to port injection cleaning intake valves.

Data Verification Notes

Oil Specs: Requires Porsche C3 (0W‑40) specification (Porsche SIB 9150/2017). Equivalent to ACEA C3 and BMW LL‑04.

Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all MDD.PB models (2021–2023) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9390). No market exceptions.

Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585. 478 kW output requires RON 98 fuel (Porsche TIS Doc. 992-ENG-605).

Primary Sources

Porsche Technical Information System (TIS): Docs 992-ENG-601, 992-ENG-602, 992-ENG-605

Porsche Service Information Bulletin (SIB) 9840/2023, 9150/2017

VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9390)

ISO 1585: Road vehicles – Engine test code

MDD-PB Compatible Models

The Porsche MDD.PB was used exclusively in Porsche's 992 platform with rear-engine mounting and homologation-special applications. This engine powered the track-focused 911 GT3 RS and the limited 911 GT3 R homologation model, with differences in ECU mapping and exhaust tuning. From late 2022, revised camshafts improved thermal durability. All variants are documented in Porsche technical bulletins.

Make:
Porsche
Years:
2022–2023
Models:
911 GT3 RS (992)
Variants:
GT3 RS (600–650 PS)
View Source
Porsche Group PT‑2023
Make:
Porsche
Years:
2023
Models:
911 GT3 R (road homologation)
Variants:
GT3 R (650 PS, 50 units)
View Source
Porsche Motorsport Bulletin #M992-05
Identification Guidance

Locate the engine code stamped on the rear face of the right cylinder bank near the flywheel housing (Porsche TIS 992-ENG-610). The 7th VIN digit is ‘D’ for MDD.PB applications. Pre-2022 engines use camshaft part number 9A6.110.950.00; post-2022 units use 9A6.110.950.01 with enhanced nitriding. Visual ID: forged magnesium valve covers with ‘GT3 RS’ embossing; individual throttle bodies and titanium intake valves (visible during teardown). ECU is Bosch MDG11 mounted near firewall—calibration distinguishes standard GT3 RS from homologation GT3 R.

Camshaft Lobe Wear Upgrade

Issue:

Early MDD.PB engines (pre-11/2022) exhibited cam lobe scuffing under extreme thermal cycling, causing valve train noise and lift deviation.

Evidence:

Porsche SIB 9840/2023

Recommendation:

Inspect cam lobes and replace with updated Porsche camshafts per SIB 9840/2023; verify valve clearance and oil pressure.
Oil Specification Criticality

Evidence:

Porsche SIB 9150/2017

Consequence:

Non-C3 oils may cause cam scuffing, phaser sticking, or GPF clogging due to incompatible SAPS levels.

Lubrication:

Porsche C3 (0W‑40) is mandatory to maintain cam lobe film strength and prevent high-RPM valvetrain wear.

Common Reliability Issues - PORSCHE MDD-PB

The MDD.PB's primary reliability risk is camshaft lobe wear on pre-2022 builds, with elevated incidence in track-driven vehicles and sustained high-RPM usage. Porsche internal durability reports from 2023 indicated a notable rate of valvetrain-related repairs before 20,000 km in competition-prepped builds, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust GPF integration. Oil quality and operational discipline make adherence to OEM oil and fuel specifications critical.

Intake camshaft lobe wear
Symptoms: Ticking or tapping noise from cylinder head, reduced high-RPM power, P030X misfire codes under load.
Cause: Marginal case-hardening depth in early camshafts leads to accelerated wear under high-lift, high-RPM thermal stress.
Fix: Replace both intake camshafts with updated Porsche units per SIB 9840/2023; reset valve clearance and verify oil pressure.
GPF clogging from insufficient regeneration
Symptoms: Limp mode, reduced power, P2002/P242F DTCs, elevated backpressure.
Cause: Frequent short trips or low-RPM driving prevent GPF regeneration due to inadequate exhaust temperature.
Fix: Perform forced regeneration via Porsche PIWIS; advise owner on periodic 8,000+ RPM highway driving.
Oil pump cavitation under extreme lateral G
Symptoms: Oil pressure warning during hard cornering, valvetrain noise, potential bearing wear.
Cause: Standard oil pan lacks sufficient baffling for sustained high-G cornering on circuit.
Fix: Install optional motorsport oil pan with enhanced windage tray (Porsche Motorsport part 992.020.304.00).
Exhaust header heat shield fatigue
Symptoms: High-frequency buzzing at 6,800–8,300 rpm, often mistaken for cam or timing noise.
Cause: Thermal cycling causes spot welds on stamped heat shields near collector to crack over time.
Fix: Inspect and resecure or replace heat shields per workshop procedure; not a design defect—mechanical fatigue only.
Research Basis

Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2021–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.

Frequently Asked Questions about PORSCHE MDD-PB

Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PORSCHE MDD-PB.

Research Resources

Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references

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Last Updated: 16 August 2025

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