From 2006 to 2009, the company produced the 2.7-liter boxer Porsche M97.20 engine, which was mounted in the rear of the 987 on the most basic versions of the Cayman coupe or Boxster cabriolet. Under the M96.23 index, this power unit is a significantly upgraded version of the engine.
M97-line engines: 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, cylinders from the M97 family are known to develop scuffs;
encountered such motors and a significant issue with the intermediate shaft bearing;
Additionally, engines require a lot of lubrication, and this is where the liners frequently turn;
There are few resources in the timing chain;
The engine’s cooling system, specifically the water pump, is one of its weak points.