The Porsche MA1.04 is a 3,397 cc, twin‑turbocharged V6 petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2016. It featured direct fuel injection, variable valve timing (VarioCam Plus), and an aluminum block with integrated dry‑sump lubrication. In standard form it delivered 239 kW (325 PS) and 450 Nm of torque, with rapid boost response and smooth mid‑range delivery ideal for daily performance use.
Fitted primarily to the 981‑generation Cayman and Boxster base models, the MA1.0…
Production years 2012–2016 meet Euro 6 standards (TÜV Certificate TÜV/12/MA1/08).
The Porsche MA1.04 is a 3,397 cc twin‑turbocharged V6 petrol engine engineered for mid‑engine sports cars (2012–2016). It combines direct injection with twin parallel turbochargers to deliver smooth torque across the rev range and responsive throttle action. Designed to meet Euro 6 emissions standards, it integrates advanced thermal and fuel management for both performance and compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,397 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 98 min) | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Twin‑turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 96.0 mm × 78.5 mm | |
Power output | 239 kW (325 PS) @ 6,700 rpm | |
Torque | 450 Nm @ 1,900–5,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch ME17.2 direct injection (200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin parallel K04 turbochargers (BorgWarner) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven DOHC with VarioCam Plus | |
Oil type | Refer to vehicle handbook / manufacturer specification | |
Dry weight | 170 kg |
The Porsche MA1.04 was used exclusively in Porsche's 981 platform with mid‑mounted, longitudinal V6 mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific cooling ducting and exhaust routing—and from 2016 was discontinued ahead of the 718 transition to turbocharged flat‑four engines, creating clear generational boundaries. 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 (2012–2016) and TÜV Germany 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 MA1.04 offers excellent performance and refinement but requires disciplined maintenance. Early units (2012–mid-2015) are prone to HPFP failure under track use; post-revision engines are more robust. With RON 98 fuel, regular oil changes, and cooldown discipline, well-maintained examples can exceed 140,000 km reliably.
Top issues include high-pressure fuel pump degradation, turbo wastegate rattle, rear main seal leaks, and intake carbon buildup. These are documented in Porsche Technical Bulletins PTB/981/13 and TIS 981-series service manuals.
Exclusively fitted to the 2012–2016 Porsche Cayman and Boxster (981 generation) base models. No other Porsche or external brands used this specific engine code.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the MA1-04 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.
Moderate for a performance V6: ~10.2 L/100km (27.7 mpg UK) combined, rising to ~12.8 L/100km in city driving and dropping to ~8.0 L/100km on highway. Aggressive driving can exceed 14.5 L/100km. Efficiency is aided by cylinder deactivation at low loads.
Yes. The MA1.04 is an interference engine with tight piston-to-valve tolerances. Timing chain failure or jump can result in catastrophic valve/piston contact. However, the chain system is robust with low reported failure rates when maintained properly.
Porsche specifies C4 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting ACEA C3 and API SN standards (e.g., Mobil 1 ESP 5W-40). Oil must be changed every 10,000 km to protect turbochargers and HPFP. Extended intervals increase carbon and wear risk.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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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