Mahle Engine Pistons

Fits:
PORSCHE 356 1600cc
Engine code: 616.15
82.50 Ø
4 Cylinder
8 valve
1582cc
55 KW
75 HP
Please note: These pistons will need to be purchased as 4 pcs. Singles are not available. Price displayed is for each piston.
This set should only be fitted by engine builders or tuners as other parts may be required.
Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.
61610390601
The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
- Porsche 356A 1955-59
- Porsche 356B 1959-63
- Porsche 356C 1963-65

Fits:
Engine codes: 616.16 / 616.36 / 616.39 / 616.40
Porsche 912 1.6 01/1965-02/1970
Porsche 356B 1600 super90 01/1959 - 12/1963
Porsche 356C 1600 SC 01/1965- 02/1970
Please note: These pistons will need to be purchased as 4 pcs. Singles are not available. Price displayed is for each piston.
This set should only be fitted by engine builders or tuners as other parts may be required.
Related reference numbers
Related, superseded, cross reference or alternative numbers for comparison.
61610390403
The product you are viewing cross references to these numbers
- Porsche 911 1965-1968 2.0L / 912 SWB (F)
- Porsche 356 1950-55
- Porsche 356A 1955-59
- Porsche 356B 1959-63
- Porsche 356C 1963-65
High-Performance Mahle Pistons for Precision Porsche Engine Rebuilds
Mahle pistons are renowned for their exceptional strength, lightweight construction and precise tolerances—making them one of the most trusted components for Porsche engine rebuilds. Designed to deliver consistent combustion, reliable thermal stability and robust performance, Mahle pistons provide the accuracy required in both classic air-cooled flat-sixes and modern water-cooled engines. Whether restoring an original engine or upgrading for enhanced performance, Mahle pistons ensure long-term reliability and consistent power output.
These pistons are engineered with advanced materials, optimised skirt profiles and precision ring lands that maintain excellent sealing, reduced friction and improved temperature control.
What Mahle Pistons Do
Mahle pistons play a critical role in engine performance by:
- Creating the upper boundary of the combustion chamber
- Maintaining
proper compression levels for efficient power delivery
- Ensuring
consistent combustion with accurate crown and ring groove geometry
- Reducing
friction and wear through advanced coatings and materials
- Withstanding
high heat and pressure in performance and turbo applications
- Providing stable operation at high RPM with precise weight balancing
A well-engineered piston is fundamental to smooth running, efficient combustion and long-term engine health.
Why Pistons Commonly Fail
Even high-quality Mahle pistons can fail if subjected to
severe conditions or improper maintenance. Common causes of piston failure
include:
- Detonation
or pre-ignition, damaging the piston crown and ring lands
- Cylinder
scoring caused by oil starvation or contaminants
- Excessive
heat leading to piston expansion or seizure
- Worn
piston rings causing poor sealing and blow-by
- Incorrect
air-fuel mixture creating lean conditions and overheating
- High
mileage fatigue, leading to skirt collapse or cracks
- Poor lubrication quality accelerating friction-related wear
Symptoms include low compression, excessive oil consumption, smoke, knocking noises or loss of power.
Why You Should Replace Worn Pistons with Mahle Components
Replacing ageing or damaged pistons with precision-engineered Mahle alternatives designed to match original performance standards ensures your Porsche engine rebuild is strong, efficient and long-lasting.
Key benefits include:
- Restored compression and improved combustion efficiency
- Reduced oil consumption and improved ring sealing
- Enhanced resistance to heat and detonation
- Smoother power delivery and better throttle response
- Improved durability for spirited or track-oriented driving
- Longer lifespan for cylinders, rings and bearings
Mahle pistons are the ideal choice for rebuilders seeking reliability, performance and consistent engine behaviour.