Parts and Serviceability

Is the 2.7t engine easier to work on than the M96 engine? Maybe... Because the 2.7t engine will not have much access to the valvetrain once in the vehicle there are a few items that should be replaced "while the engine is out". Chain tensioners, PCV spider assembly, and fuel injectors are not accessible whilst installed in the 996. As long as these items are replaced with new parts before installation, you don't have anything to worry about for 100k miles.

There are many things that are easier to work on the 2.7t engine when mounted in the 996 vs. the Audi that it came in, such as: turbo, wastegate, AC compressor, alternator, starter, etc. The timing belt and water pump CAN be replaced in the 996 without dropping the motor. You will only need to remove the engine support bracket and support the engine during the procedure. Ignition coils and spark plugs can be accessed without removing the engine.

Another obvious reason to favor the Audi 2.7t engine is cost of maintenance and repairs. Practically ANY part you will need for your Audi engine will be cheaper than the Porsche equivalent, will be easier to find, and will have more options for aftermarket, performance, OEM or OEM equivalent parts.

There are a fair amount of mechanical similarities between the Audi and Porsche engines too. The power steering pumps are interchangeable, the bellhousing bolt patterns are very close, and the clutch and flywheel outside diameters are the same size. With all of these factor taken into consideration, we feel this is one degree away from something that could've rolled off the line at Stuttgart.