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 Ca…
Production years 2009–2012 meet EU Regulation (EC) No 715/2007 (Euro 5) standards depending on market .
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 | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 180 kg |
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.
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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 (2009–2012) and UK DVSA historic MOT failure statistics (2014–2022). 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 MA1.01 is generally robust but requires proactive intake maintenance due to direct injection. With 15,000 km oil changes using 5W-40 C30 oil and intake cleaning every 60,000–80,000 km, it can reliably exceed 200,000 km. Carbon buildup is the primary concern—not mechanical failure—so driving habits and maintenance are key.
Top issues include intake valve carbon buildup, VarioCam actuator sludge clogging, high-pressure fuel pump wear, and cam cover oil leaks. All are documented in Porsche TSBs. Unlike M96/M97 engines, there is no IMS bearing concern—the MA1.01 uses a robust gear-driven system.
Exclusively the 2009–2012 Porsche Boxster S and Cayman S (987.2 facelift). It was never used in 911s or non-Porsche vehicles. The 2013+ 981 Boxster/Cayman adopted the updated MA1.20 with minor revisions.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the MA1-01 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 9–11 L/100km (25–31 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Direct injection improves efficiency over M97, but high-compression tuning limits gains. Highway cruising yields ~8 L/100km; spirited driving can exceed 13 L/100km.
No. The MA1.01 is a non-interference engine—valve-to-piston contact is highly unlikely even if cam timing is lost, due to generous combustion chamber clearance and piston crown design.
Porsche specifies 5W-40 synthetic meeting C30 (or ACEA C3) low-SAPS standards. Change every 15,000 km or annually. Proper oil is critical for VarioCam actuator function and emissions system longevity.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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