Paint code M3V · Metallic
Porsche Dark Red Metallic
By CarWhere Research · Updated
Dark Red Metallic is a metallic Porsche exterior color, paint code M3V. Porsche has offered it on the 911 and classic Porsches between 1966 and 1984. To confirm a specific car left the factory in Dark Red Metallic, check the paint code on its build sheet.
Dark Red Metallic at a glance
| Paint code(s) | M3V |
|---|---|
| Finish | Metallic |
| Color family | Red Porsche Colors |
| Model lines | 911 and classic Porsches |
Porsche Dark Red Metallic years and models
| Model | Model years | Availability | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 911one of the first four metallic paints offered on the 911 | 1966 | Special (extra-cost) color | [1] |
| 944 | 1984 | Standard color | [2] |
US model years where the source gives them. A trailing dash means still offered in the latest source.
Dark Red Metallic paint code
- M3V— 1980s code (LM3V)[2]
The code is printed on the car's option sticker and on a VIN build sheet. Porsche has reused some names with new codes as paint formulas changed, so the code is the reliable identifier.
About Dark Red Metallic
- By 1966 the 911 colour range had grown to 30 special colours, including the model's first four metallics: Dark Red Metallic, Blue Metallic, Silver Metallic and Dark Green Metallic. [1]
Is that car really Dark Red Metallic?
The build sheet shows the factory exterior color and installed options recorded for a specific VIN, plus original MSRP when the build data includes it. Free availability check first; $9.99 only if detailed build data exists — no subscription.
Colors similar to Dark Red Metallic
Frequently asked questions
What is the paint code for Porsche Dark Red Metallic?
Dark Red Metallic has carried Porsche paint code M3V (1980s code (LM3V)). Porsche reuses names across eras with different codes, so match the code on the car's option sticker or build sheet rather than the name alone.
Which Porsche models and years came in Dark Red Metallic?
Our sources list Dark Red Metallic on the 911 (1966, special (extra-cost) color) and 944 (1984, standard color). If you see it on a model or year not listed, it may be a Paint to Sample order or a respray — the build sheet for the VIN shows which.
Is Dark Red Metallic a Paint to Sample color?
Our sources list Dark Red Metallic as a special (extra-cost) color and standard color rather than Paint to Sample. Porsche's Paint to Sample program can still apply many past colors to new cars, so a recent car in Dark Red Metallic may be a PTS order.
How can I tell if a Porsche is factory Dark Red Metallic?
Read the paint code on the option sticker (in the maintenance booklet and, on most models, in the front luggage compartment) or on a build sheet for the VIN, and compare it with M3V. A matching color name alone does not rule out a respray or wrap.
Sources
- The 911 chameleon: Porsche's colourful tradition — Porsche Newsroom
- Dark Red Metallic (LM3V) paint code and years — PaintScratch (secondary)
More Porsche color research
- All Porsche colors
- Red Porsche Colors
- Porsche paint codes
- Porsche Paint to Sample explained
- Porsche tools & data hub
Independent reference; not affiliated with Porsche AG.