The Porsche 944 was produced from 1982 to 1991 as a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car with inline-four cylinder engines ranging from 2.5L to 3.0L displacement. This guide provides complete oil capacity, viscosity, and type specifications for all model years and engine variants. Using the correct oil specifications maintains engine protection, reduces wear, and ensures optimal performance.
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1991 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L I4 (M44/41) 944 S2 / 2.5L Turbo I4 (M44/52) 944 Turbo |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.5 L (6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.5 L (5.8 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90, Mahle OC 75 |
The 1991 Porsche 944 uses either a 3.0L naturally aspirated inline-four (S2 model) or 2.5L turbocharged engine that requires 6.5 liters (6.9 quarts) of full synthetic oil with filter. Using SAE 10W-50 viscosity oil provides optimal protection for the flat-tappet camshaft design and high operating temperatures.
1990 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.0L I4 (M44/41) 944 S2 / 2.5L Turbo I4 (M44/52) 944 Turbo |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 6.5 L (6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.5 L (5.8 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90, Mahle OC 75 |
The 1990 Porsche 944 S2 and Turbo models require 6.5 liters (6.9 quarts) of full synthetic oil when replacing the oil filter. The 10W-50 viscosity specification offers superior wear protection and maintains proper lubrication under high temperature conditions.
1989 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.7L I4 (M44/12) Base / 2.5L I4 (M44/40) 944 S / 2.5L Turbo I4 (M44/52) 944 Turbo |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.3-6.5 L (5.6-6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0-5.8 L (5.3-6.1 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90 |
The 1989 Porsche 944 introduced a new 2.7L base engine requiring 5.3 liters (5.6 quarts) of oil with filter, while the Turbo variant requires 5.5 liters (5.8 quarts). Full synthetic oil with high zinc content (1200-1400 ppm ZDDP) is critical for protecting flat-tappet camshafts in these engines.
1988 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (M44/40) Base / 2.5L I4 944 S / 2.5L Turbo I4 (M44/51) 944 Turbo / 2.5L Turbo I4 (M44/52) 944 Turbo S |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.3-6.5 L (5.6-6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0-5.8 L (5.3-6.1 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90, Mahle OC 75 |
The 1988 Porsche 944 base model uses 5.8 quarts (5.5 liters) of 20W-50 synthetic oil with filter replacement. The Turbo S variant introduced in 1988 produced 250 PS and requires proper oil viscosity to handle increased thermal loads.
1987 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (M44/40) Base / 2.5L I4 944 S / 2.5L Turbo I4 (M44/51) 944 Turbo |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.3-6.5 L (5.6-6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0-5.8 L (5.3-6.1 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90 |
The 1987 Porsche 944 naturally aspirated engine requires 6.5 liters (6.9 quarts) of oil with filter according to factory specifications. The 944 S model introduced this year uses the same M44/40 engine with increased output requiring proper synthetic oil for protection.
1986 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (M44/40) Base / 2.5L Turbo I4 (M44/51) 944 Turbo |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.3-6.5 L (5.6-6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0-5.8 L (5.3-6.1 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90 |
The 1986 Porsche 944 base model requires 5.3 quarts (5.0 liters) of full synthetic oil when changing the filter. Both naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants benefit from oil containing adequate zinc additives for camshaft protection.
1985 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (M44/40) Base / 2.5L Turbo I4 (M44/51) 944 Turbo |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.3-6.5 L (5.6-6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0-5.8 L (5.3-6.1 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90 |
The 1985 Porsche 944 introduced the Turbo variant at the Geneva Motor Show with a 2.5L turbocharged engine producing 220 PS. Both base and turbocharged models require full synthetic oil with 10W-50 or 20W-50 viscosity for proper lubrication.
1984 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (M44/40) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.5-6.5 L (5.8-6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0-5.5 L (5.3-5.8 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90 |
The 1984 Porsche 944 uses a 2.5L inline-four engine requiring approximately 5.8 quarts (5.5 liters) of synthetic oil with filter. Regular oil changes with proper viscosity oil help maintain engine longevity and performance in these transaxle-equipped sports cars.
1983 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (M44/40) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.5-6.5 L (5.8-6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0-5.5 L (5.3-5.8 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90 |
The 1983 Porsche 944 requires 5.5 to 6.5 liters of full synthetic oil depending on whether the dipstick is filled to the maximum mark. Using oil with at least 1000 ppm zinc (ZDDP) prevents premature wear on flat-tappet camshaft components.
1982 Porsche 944 Engine Oil Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 (M44/40) |
| Oil Capacity (with Filter) | 5.5-6.5 L (5.8-6.9 qt) |
| Oil Capacity (without Filter) | 5.0-5.5 L (5.3-5.8 qt) |
| Recommended Oil Type | Full Synthetic |
| Viscosity | SAE 10W-50 / 20W-50 |
| Oil Change Interval | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
| Oil Drain Plug Torque | 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) |
| Recommended Filters | Mahle OC 142, Porsche 944 107 201 90 |
The 1982 Porsche 944 first-year model uses a 2.5L inline-four engine with a displacement of 2479 cc requiring 5.8 quarts of synthetic oil with filter replacement. Porsche Classic officially recommends 10W-50 synthetic oil for all 944 models to provide optimal wear and corrosion protection.
Oil Maintenance and Service Tips
Oil Check Procedure
Check engine oil level when the engine is cold and on level ground using the dipstick. The difference between minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick is approximately 1.5 liters. Add oil gradually to avoid overfilling and recheck the level before starting the engine.
Oil Change Best Practices
Remove the rear skid pan if still installed to access the oil pan drain plug located at the bottom rear of the engine compartment. Replace the drain plug seal ring with each oil change and torque the drain plug to 50 N·m (37 lb-ft) using a 17mm wrench. Allow the engine to sit for five minutes after filling with new oil so oil drains back into the pan before checking the final level.
Oil Filter Replacement
Replace the oil filter during every oil change using Mahle OC 142, Mahle OC 75, or genuine Porsche part number 944 107 201 90. Pre-fill the new oil filter before installation to reduce dry-start conditions and ensure proper initial lubrication. Check for normal oil pressure between 4 and 5 bar at cold start after replacing the filter.
Service Intervals
| Driving Condition | Oil Change Interval |
|---|---|
| Normal Driving | Every 5,000 miles or 12 months |
| Severe Driving (track use, frequent short trips, extreme temperatures) | Every 3,000 miles or 6 months |
| Turbocharged Models | Every 3,000-5,000 miles |
Porsche originally recommended 15,000-mile intervals for naturally aspirated models and 7,500 miles for turbocharged variants, but most owners and technicians recommend more frequent changes at 3,000 to 5,000-mile intervals.
When exploring Porsche, don’t miss our detailed guides on popular models like the Porsche Boxster, Porsche Cayman, Porsche 718 Spyder, and Porsche 911 Turbo. Understanding engine oil capacity is crucial for proper maintenance, and our expert resources explain the exact oil requirements for these models. You’ll also find insights on recommended oil types, service intervals, and common issues linked to incorrect oil levels, ensuring your Porsche always delivers reliable performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of oil does a Porsche 944 use?
The Porsche 944 requires full synthetic engine oil with SAE 10W-50 or 20W-50 viscosity. Porsche Classic officially recommends their synthetic 10W-50 motor oil formulated specifically for transaxle vehicles including all 944 models. The oil must contain high zinc content (minimum 1000-1200 ppm ZDDP) to protect flat-tappet camshaft components.
How much oil does a Porsche 944 take?
A Porsche 944 takes approximately 5.5 to 6.5 liters (5.8 to 6.9 quarts) of oil with filter replacement depending on the specific engine variant and model year. The 2.5L base engines typically require 5.3 to 5.8 quarts, while S2 and some Turbo models may require up to 6.9 quarts. Always fill to the upper dipstick mark and account for oil that remains in the filter housing after starting the engine.
What is the recommended oil viscosity for a Porsche 944?
The recommended oil viscosity for a Porsche 944 is SAE 10W-50 for year-round use or SAE 20W-50 for warmer climates. The 10W grade provides better cold-start lubrication in winter while the 50-weight high-temperature rating handles the relatively high oil temperatures these engines produce. Avoid using viscosities lower than 10W-40 or higher than 20W-50 to maintain proper protection.
What is the oil drain plug torque specification for a Porsche 944?
The oil drain plug torque specification for a Porsche 944 is 50 N·m (37 lb-ft). The drain plug uses an M20 x 1.5 thread size and requires a 17mm wrench for removal and installation. Always replace the drain plug seal ring during each oil change to prevent leaks.
What oil filter fits a Porsche 944?
The Mahle OC 142 oil filter is the original equipment specification for all Porsche 944 models. Alternative compatible filters include Mahle OC 75 (taller version), genuine Porsche part number 944 107 201 90, and Hengst filters designed for 924/944/968 models. All filters fit 924S, 944, 951 (944 Turbo), and 968 transaxle models.
How often should I change oil in a Porsche 944?
Change oil in a Porsche 944 every 3,000 to 5,000 miles for optimal engine protection. While Porsche factory recommendations specified up to 15,000 miles for naturally aspirated engines, most technicians and enthusiasts recommend more frequent intervals given the age of these vehicles. Turbocharged models benefit from 3,000-mile intervals due to higher thermal stress on the oil.
Conclusion
The Porsche 944 requires 5.5 to 6.5 liters (5.8 to 6.9 quarts) of full synthetic oil with SAE 10W-50 or 20W-50 viscosity depending on engine variant and model year. Using manufacturer-approved synthetic oil containing adequate zinc additives (1000-1200 ppm ZDDP) protects flat-tappet camshaft components and ensures proper lubrication under high operating temperatures. Regular oil changes every 3,000 to 5,000 miles with proper torque specifications and quality oil filters maintain engine reliability and performance throughout the life of these sports cars.
