X51 986 3.2l ??
 

Ok before anyone says that it is impossible hear me out.

From my understanding the x51 intake for the 3.4 996 would fit the 3.2 986 S if the bolt pattern was different.

So here is what I was thinking. Someone out there with a CNC machine could make an adapter plate.

One side bolts to the motor with recessed flush bolts, and the other side has bolt studs that would come upwards to bolt on the intake.

After it was designed, material cost should not be more than 50$.

questions.....if you could do it, would it be a bolt on super mod? would it make that much difference? Could the computer learn new air map for the X51?

The manifold and adaptor would end up being too tall; 911's have taller engine bays than the Boxster.

Thats what I thought as well, But the 3.4X51 motor fits into the boxster with more that a few inches to spare.

The adapter plate only need be 1/2 inch thick aluminum. Recessed bolt head are 1/4 inch tall and would have 1/4 inch aluminum to bolt onto.

The intake is not a stressed part, so if the intake tubes are anywhere close to the same place, it would work.

Yes, so you would have to lower the motor by 1-2". Also there is a lot more to a 996X51 than just the intake manifold. Here is the list:

X51 Power Kit
(from the tech bulletin describing installation)

"A parts set -"Carrera Powerkit"- is available to retrofit the standard engine with an increased performance of 254 kW (345 HP). The following parts in the engine are replaced, exchanged or modified to achieve this increased performance:
- new intake manifold with modified cross-section (material: sand cast aluminum );
- new intake pipe supports adapted to the form of the intake manifold;
- new exhaust manifolds with larger cross-section and optimized flow behavior;
- new cylinder heads with optimized, CNC-milled inlet ducts;
- new camshafts with larger valve stroke on the inlet side and modified inlet and outlet timing;
- inlet valve springs adapted to the enlarged valve stroke;
- modified partition box in the oil pan;
- modified maps for the DME control module.

The following steps are also taken on the vehicle:
- new underside panel in the transmission area;
- additional radiator in connection with modified front spoiler, except on the 911 Carrera 4S (996).

My guess is that if you added the X51manifold to a 3.2L without all the other changes you would possibly gain a few ponies at the top of your rev range and sacrifice some midrange torque. It might be a bit faster 0-60 but slower on a road course where torque is king. Essentially just moving the powerband around.

The argument with the "too tall" I have an issue with. Cayman's have a aftermarket engine cover that's made out of Lexan so they can see their engine. Why couldn't the same be done for the 986 and make it tall enough to clear a modified x51?...unless there's an interference problem with the top.