Anyone thinking about optimizing their 996 will inevitably come across the heart of the matter: the engine.
But this is exactly where what Werk 96 understands as the perfect interaction of all components begins – together with our engine specialist TechSpeed.
Because engine performance is never just a question of horsepower. It's about stability, thermal efficiency, longevity, and harmonious coordination with the entire vehicle.
TechSpeed has specialized in water-cooled six-cylinder engines for over 30 years – with a particular focus on the 996 and 997 series. Over the past 15 years, the team has rebuilt, modified, and perfected between 60 and 70 engines annually. This results in experience gained from over 1,000 engines, which flows directly into every Werk 96 project.
A central topic during overhaul and optimization is the cooling system. The first water-cooled engines—whether the 996 or the early 997—feature thermally sensitive Lokasil cylinder coatings. If the engine gets too hot in everyday use, especially in city traffic (over 100°C), the nickel-silicon coating can dissolve, leading to piston seizure over the long term. Therefore, Werk 96 relies on so-called wet steel liners for its performance conversions, which are directly immersed in water. This solution is not only extremely temperature-resistant but has proven to be an ideal solution over the long term.
The intermediate shaft bearing (IMS) is also crucial. Instead of the original ball bearing, which is prone to localized overloading, Werk 96 uses modern spherical roller bearings. These can withstand many times the load and are not prone to self-destruction. This modification significantly increases long-term stability – as do reinforced pistons with a modern Graphal coating, which is applied under vacuum. This significantly reduces friction and increases the service life of the engine.
During every conversion or overhaul, all relevant wear parts are replaced: timing chains, chain tensioners, bearing shells, valve guides, and much more. In addition, each engine block undergoes extensive redesign – with a focus on optimized oil passages, precision-machined cylinder heads, and aerodynamic reworking of the intake and exhaust ports. The following applies: The intake port requires a defined roughness to optimally guide the mixture. Smooth surfaces would be counterproductive here.
Depending on the configuration, our engines reach speeds of up to 8,000 rpm. The 4.0-liter produces approximately 420 hp, while the 4.3-liter produces approximately 450 hp. Targeted modifications to the combustion chamber—such as reducing squish bands and optimizing valve guides—can reduce thermal stress while simultaneously achieving greater performance.
We're also thinking ahead when it comes to peripherals: The installation of a larger center cooler, reprogramming of the control unit to activate the radiator fans earlier (e.g. at 95 °C), the use of a low-temperature thermostat and reinforced water pumps ensure maximum cooling performance - even at high outside temperatures or in city traffic.
Of course, the conversion also includes a tuned sports exhaust system, steel-braided brake lines, an upgraded brake system, and—depending on your preference—a reconditioned or reinforced transmission. Because, as always, the perfect symbiosis of all components is what defines a true Werk 96 conversion.
And for anyone driving a 996.1 with the 3.4-liter engine: There's a known design flaw here. Porsche didn't install a locking mechanism for the bearing shells in the center main bearing. In the worst case, the bearing shell can shift under load—leading to serious engine damage. Factory 96 corrects this problem as standard with every overhaul through targeted reworking.
Conclusion:
An engine conversion at Werk 96 is never just a horsepower upgrade. It's a holistic concept combining expertise, experience, passion, and the deep conviction that the 996 deserves the best—both technically and emotionally, with a focus on maximum quality and longevity.