3.6 M55 Engine [e.g. Porsche Cayenne]

Porsche’s 3.6-litre engine (engine code: M55) is a powerful, torque-rich power unit fitted to several Porsche models. This engine has been part of the Porsche story for over two decades and has proven itself a reliable, efficient choice in sports cars.

The M55 is a six-cylinder, four-valve, turbocharged unit. It produces over 300 horsepower and more than 400 Nm of torque, giving it strong performance. Forced induction is combined with Porsche’s own VarioCam Plus technology, which optimises valve timing and lift so the engine performs at its best across the entire rev range.

Over the years the M55 has powered a number of Porsche models, including the Porsche 911 Turbo, GT2, GT3 and Carrera 4S. It also featured in some of Porsche’s special sports car editions, such as the 911 GT2 RS and 911 Sport Classic. In these models its performance was further enhanced with upgrades such as a larger turbocharger and a lighter crankshaft.

The M55 also proved a popular choice for racing, used in series such as the GT3 Cup and GT3 RSR. For this application the engine was modified and tuned to an even finer degree so it could withstand long race days.

The Porsche 3.6 M55 engine has become an established part of Porsche’s sports car heritage, having proven its reliability and efficiency over decades. Thanks to its strong performance and high dependability, the engine has won great popularity among sports car enthusiasts.

The Porsche 3.6 engine (engine code: M55) was used in several Porsche models during its production years of 2003-2006. It belonged to the Porsche M96 engine family and was the first Porsche engine to use VarioCam Plus technology, which controls the flow of intake air and exhaust gases. Combined with the Bosch DME 7.8 engine management system, this technology delivered a powerful, high-performing engine.

The Porsche 3.6 engine was used in the following Porsche models:

In all of these models the Porsche 3.6 engine produced at least 320 horsepower and was paired with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed Tiptronic S automatic. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes around five seconds, with a top speed of roughly 280 km/h.

The Porsche 3.6 engine was designed and built to deliver powerful, reliable performance across Porsche’s model range. Its combination of a high compression ratio, lightweight components and advanced technology ensured efficient performance with low fuel consumption. The engine was also relatively light, which helped improve the car’s handling and balance.

All in all, the Porsche 3.6 engine was an important part of many Porsche models, and its performance and reliability made it a highly sought-after engine among Porsche enthusiasts.

The exact engine shown in the photo may no longer be available, but we will always send you an offer for the available engine complete with photos and full details, such as mileage and general condition.

Which cars does this engine fit?

Engine code M55 was fitted to models including: Porsche Cayenne. The list is indicative — the same engine may also have been used in other models from the same manufacturer.

Always check your own engine code before ordering. The same displacement and the same model name can mean a different engine in a different model year, and only the code tells you for certain which engine the car has.

Where do I find the engine code?

The engine code is usually in one of three places:

• The registration document — under engine type or engine number.
• The engine itself — cast or stamped into the block, often at the gearbox end or under the cover.
• A workshop — a garage reads the code from your VIN in the manufacturer’s catalogue in a couple of minutes.

If you cannot find the code, send us the VIN and the registration number with your enquiry and we will look it up for you.

Request a quote for this engine

Every engine we sell is tested and comes with a warranty. Most of our stock never appears on the website, so do ask for an engine that is not listed.

Send your enquiry with the engine code or the VIN and you will have an answer within 24 hours.