The Porsche M 55.02 is a 3,192 cc, water‑cooled flat‑six petrol engine produced between 2005 and 2008. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and Bosch Motronic ME7.8 sequential fuel injection with VarioCam Plus variable valve timing. In standard form it delivered 188 kW (255 PS) at 6,200 rpm, with peak torque of 310 Nm at 4,800 rpm.
Fitted to the Porsche Boxster S (987) and Cayman S (987) models globally, the M 55.02 offered enhanced performance over the base…
Production years 2005–2008 meet Euro 4 emissions standards .
The Porsche M 55.02 is a 3,192 cc flat‑six DOHC petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented mid-engine sports applications (2005–2008). It combines water cooling with VarioCam Plus variable valve timing and sequential fuel injection to deliver strong mid‑range response and high‑revving character. Designed to meet Euro 4 emissions standards, it balances track-capable output with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,192 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 98 min) | |
Configuration | Flat‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 89.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
Power output | 188 kW (255 PS) @ 6,200 rpm | |
Torque | 310 Nm @ 4,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch Motronic ME7.8 sequential injection with VarioCam Plus | |
Emissions standard | Euro 4 | |
Compression ratio | 11.3:1 | |
Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with VarioCam Plus hydraulic phasers | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 180 kg |
The Porsche M 55.02 was used across Porsche's 987 Boxster S and 987 Cayman S platforms with mid-engine, longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received minor running changes—revised VarioCam solenoid seals in 2007–2008 and updated ECU maps—and was replaced in 2009 by the direct-injection M97/22. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Porsche technical bulletins (2005–2008) and owner association failure logs (2009–2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The M 55.02 offers strong performance and refinement but early 2005–2006 units are susceptible to VarioCam solenoid issues. Later models include minor revisions. With regular oil changes using 5W-40 A40 oil and VarioCam awareness, well-maintained examples are dependable for enthusiasts.
Top issues include VarioCam solenoid/phaser wear, rear main seal leaks, Bosch sensor drift, and valve cover seepage. These are well-documented in Porsche service bulletins. The VarioCam system is the most critical and requires clean oil to function reliably.
Exclusively the 2005–2008 Porsche Boxster S (987) and 2006–2008 Cayman S (987), both rated at 255 PS. It was replaced in 2009 by the direct-injection M97/22. No cross-manufacturer usage exists.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M-55-02 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
Approximately 12–14 L/100km (20–24 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Highway cruising can reach 9.5 L/100km (30 mpg UK), while aggressive use exceeds 16 L/100km due to the 3.2L displacement and performance gearing.
Yes. The Porsche M 55.02 is an interference engine. If the timing chains fail or VarioCam phasers jam, pistons will contact open valves, causing severe internal damage. Regular oil changes and solenoid inspection are essential.
Porsche specifies 5W-40 synthetic oil meeting Porsche A40 standard. This viscosity ensures cam, phaser, and bearing protection under high-RPM stress. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or annually.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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