The 2.7-liter boxer Porsche M97.20 engine was produced by the company from 2006 to 2009 and was installed on the basic modifications of the Cayman coupe or Boxster cabriolet in the back of the 987. This power unit is a seriously updated version of the engine under the M96.23 index.
M97 family: M97.20, M97.21.
Specifications
| Production years | 2006-2009 |
| Displacement, cc | 2687 |
| Fuel system | distributed injection |
| Power output, hp | 245 |
| Torque output, Nm | 273 |
| Cylinder block | aluminum H6 |
| Block head | aluminum 24v |
| Cylinder bore, mm | 85.5 |
| Piston stroke, mm | 78 |
| Compression ratio | 11.3 |
| Features | no |
| Hydraulic lifters | yes |
| Timing drive | chain |
| Phase regulator | VarioCam Plus |
| Turbocharging | no |
| Recommended engine oil | 5W-40 |
| Engine oil capacity, liter | 7.75 |
| Fuel type | petrol |
| Euro standards | EURO 4 |
| Fuel consumption, L/100 km (for Porsche Cayman 2007) — city — highway — combined |
13.8 8.6 9.3 |
| Engine lifespan, km | ~250 000 |
| Weight, kg | 192 |
The engine was installed on:
- Porsche Boxster 2 (987) in 2006 – 2008;
- Porsche Cayman 1 (987) in 2006 – 2009.
Disadvantages of the Porsche M97.20 engine
- First of all, units of the M97 family are known for the formation of scuffing in cylinders;
- Touched such motors and a massive problem with the bearing of the intermediate shaft;
- Also, engines are very demanding on lubrication and the liners often turn here;
- Timing chain does not have a large resource;
- The weak points of the engine include its cooling system, in particular the water pump.
Frequently asked questions about the Porsche M97.20
How much power does the Porsche M97.20 make?
The Porsche M97.20 develops 245 hp and 273 Nm of torque.
How much oil does the Porsche M97.20 take and which one?
Engine oil capacity: 7.75 liters. Recommended oil: 5W-40.
Does the Porsche M97.20 have a timing belt or chain?
The Porsche M97.20 uses a timing chain.
Is the Porsche M97.20 turbocharged?
No, the Porsche M97.20 is naturally aspirated.
Does the Porsche M97.20 need valve clearance adjustment?
No, the Porsche M97.20 has hydraulic lifters, so the valve clearances do not need to be adjusted.
How long does the Porsche M97.20 last?
The typical lifespan of the Porsche M97.20 is ~250 000 km with proper maintenance.
What is the fuel consumption of the Porsche M97.20?
Porsche Cayman 2007: city 13.8, highway 8.6, combined 9.3 L/100 km.
What cars was the Porsche M97.20 installed on?
Porsche Boxster 2 (987) in 2006 - 2008; Porsche Cayman 1 (987) in 2006 - 2009.
What are the common problems of the Porsche M97.20?
First of all, units of the M97 family are known for the formation of scuffing in cylinders. Touched such motors and a massive problem with the bearing of the intermediate shaft. All known problems.
What engines are related to the Porsche M97.20?
M97 family: M97.21.





