The 2.5-liter boxer Porsche M96.20 engine was produced by the concern from 1996 to 1999 and was installed on the basic modifications of the first generation Boxster convertible in the back of the 986. The engines of the first years had many problems due to the poor quality of the casting of the cylinder block.
Engines of M96-line: M96.20, M96.22, M96.26.
Specifications
| Production years | 1996-1999 |
| Displacement, cc | 2480 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 204 |
| Torque output, Nm | 245 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum H6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 85.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 72 |
| Compression ratio | 11.0 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | no |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 8.3 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 3 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Porsche Boxster 1998) — city — highway — combined |
14.3 7.1 9.7 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~200 000 |
| Weight, kg | 172 |
The engine was installed on:
- Porsche Boxster 1 (986) in 1996 – 1999.
Disadvantages of the Porsche M96.20 engine
- In the units of the first years, the sleeves cracked and shifted due to poor casting quality;
- The engine is very demanding on lubrication and turning the liners is not uncommon here;
- This motor also has a massive problem with the intermediate shaft bearing;
- A very modest resource is distinguished by a timing chain drive;
- Weaknesses also include a water pump and ever-leaking crankshaft oil seals.
