The Porsche 914 2.0 is a classic mid-engine sports car that relies on a robust, air-cooled flat-four engine. If you are restoring or building a 914 2.0 engine, you may come across part number 021.109.111B – a camshaft manufactured by Mahle. This specific camshaft is a common replacement or mild upgrade for the original equipment, offering a balance of reliable performance and driveability. In this guide, we cover the specifications, compatibility, installation considerations, and how to make a smart purchasing decision for your 914 2.0.
Overview and Application
The Mahle camshaft 021.109.111B is designed for the 2.0-liter Type 4 engine used in the Porsche 914 from 1973 to 1975. This camshaft is a direct replacement for the factory cam, meaning it fits the original head and case without modifications. Mahle, a well-known German manufacturer, originally supplied many engine parts for Porsche, so this part is considered OEM-quality. It is often chosen for stock rebuilds or mild performance builds where you want a slight bump in power without sacrificing idle quality or low-end torque.
Specifications and Design
Camshaft Profile
The 021.109.111B features a grind that is very close to the stock 914 2.0 camshaft, with slightly increased lift and duration. Typical specifications (based on common knowledge among Porsche 914 enthusiasts) include:
- Lift: Approximately 0.410" intake and exhaust
- Duration: About 260° advertised (at 0.050" lobe lift, around 224°)
- Lobe Separation Angle: 114° These numbers indicate a mild performance cam that improves mid-range torque and top-end power while maintaining a smooth idle. It works well with stock valve springs and pushrods, though upgrading to heavier springs is recommended for sustained high RPM use.
Material and Construction
Mahle manufactured this camshaft from high-quality iron, precision-ground to ensure accurate lobe profiles and consistent valve timing. The camshaft comes with a machined oil pump drive gear and a keyway for the crankshaft gear. Surface finish is smooth, reducing wear on lifters and ensuring long life.
Compatibility Considerations
Engine Fitment
Direct fit for the 914 2.0 (1973-1975) with the VW Type 4 engine. It also fits other Type 4 applications like the VW Bus (1972-1979) and the Porsche 914 1.7/1.8 with minor adjustments? Actually the 1.7 and 1.8 engines use different camshafts, so this part is specifically for 2.0L engines. Always verify your engine displacement and block number.
Cylinder Heads and Valvetrain
The camshaft uses the standard Type 4 cam bearings and is compatible with stock rocker arms and shafts. However, if your cylinder heads have been modified or shaved, you may need to check pushrod length. The base circle of the 021.109.111B is the same as stock, so preload adjustments are usually unnecessary unless other valvetrain components are changed.
Ignition Timing and Carburetion
Because this cam has slightly more overlap than the stock cam, you may need to adjust ignition timing and possibly re-jet your carburetors (if running Weber or Dellorto). For a stock Bosch D-Jetronic fuel injection system, the ECU can often compensate, but a fine-tune of the throttle position sensor and airflow meter might be beneficial.
Installation Tips
Preparation
Before installing the new camshaft, inspect the cam bearings for wear. If the bearings are scored or out of round, replace them. Clean the camshaft and oil galleries thoroughly. Apply assembly lube to the cam lobes and lifters. Use new lifters (hydraulic or solid depending on your engine). It is highly recommended to replace the timing chain and gears as well, since a worn chain will affect cam timing.
Timing Mark Alignment
The 021.109.111B has a keyway that aligns with the crankshaft sprocket. Set the engine to top dead center (TDC) on cylinder #1. The camshaft timing mark on the gear should align with the mark on the case. Double-check with a degree wheel to ensure the cam is degreed correctly. For the 914 2.0, the factory cam timing spec is typically 2.0mm lift at TDC; check your cam card for exact numbers.
Lifter Break-In
If using new flat-tappet lifters, follow a proper break-in procedure: run the engine at 2000-2500 rpm for 20 minutes, varying speed, to properly seat the lifter faces against the cam lobes. Use a high-zinc break-in oil or additive.
Performance Expectations
With the Mahle 021.109.111B camshaft, expect a modest power increase of 5-10 horsepower over a stock cam. The power band shifts slightly higher, but the engine remains tractable for daily driving. Torque in the 3000-4500 rpm range is noticeably improved, making the 914 feel more responsive in highway passing and mountain roads. Idle remains smooth at 800-900 rpm. Fuel economy is largely unchanged if the rest of the engine is in good condition.
Final Recommendation
The Mahle part 021.109.111B is an excellent choice for a 914 2.0 restoration or a mild performance rebuild. It offers OEM-quality construction, direct fit, and reliable gains without requiring major modifications. For a stock or near-stock engine, this camshaft provides the best balance of driveability and performance. When purchasing, source from a reputable Porsche parts supplier that can confirm the part origin – some aftermarket brands may produce similar but non-identical grinds. If you plan to build a high-performance 2.0 with high compression and big carbs, you might want a more aggressive cam, but for most 914 owners, the 021.109.111B hits the sweet spot.