Which Oil?

DaveT · Aug 31, 2016

Hi all, I have rarely needed to top up the oil on my 1989 3.2 as the annual oil change has proved sufficient and I usually have some spare oil from that exercise (I should note that I don't do the oil change myself), even after long euro road trips. Anyway this year I am setting off from France at the weekend and realised that I don't have any spare oil this time. What grade, rather than brand would anyone suggest, what do you all use?
Thanks Dave

chrishak · Aug 31, 2016

My '88 Carrera has been on 5/40 Mobil 1 since I bought it at 90,000 miles and possibly before that. The case has never been apart and despite now showing 117,000 miles, contrary to popular belief, it doesn't leak from every pore, doesn't smoke (except at start-up after a dormant period, which is completely normal on a flat engine) and never needs topping up between annual services (approx. 5000 mls).
It's serviced by Porsche Bournemouth and we had a very short discussion about Porsche Classic oil before the last service, after which I quickly decided to stick with Mobil on account of a) the price and b) the performance

graham tompkins · Aug 31, 2016

Hi Dave, if possible, can you find out what oil was used at your last change as it would be preferable to use the same grade for top up if needed during the trip.
Like Chris, I did use Mobil 1 5/40, but switched to Casrol Magnatec 5/40 3 years ago, as I get it free,(family connections) both have been great, no leaks or top ups needed, I do about 5-6k a year.
if you can't find out, I'd get some decent semi synthetic as a get out of jail card.
regards
Graham

T911UK · Sep 1, 2016

Mobil 1 doesnt come in 5/40, it does come in 0/40 or 5/50

DaveT · Sep 1, 2016

Thanks guys that is very helpful, I will check what oil was used last time and get the same grade if at all possible. Cheers.

Ray · Sep 1, 2016

My 1984 3.2 runs on Gulf Competition 10w-40 Racing Ester Fully Synthetic engine oil. If you look on the Opie Oils web site you will find all manner of oil types. Email the guys at the company and they will give you some really sound advice. The cost runs from reasonable to extreme depending on your needs. (http://www.opieoils.co.uk/t-the-oilman.aspx)

Ray