Porsche’s baby 911 has always been close to its big brother, but in the right spec the Cayman S could make you ditch the dream forever.
Porsche introduced an all-new Cayman in 2013 and it was essentially just that – a new structure and chassis, new engines, a new exterior design and a far superior cabin. The standard Cayman proved to be terrific in its own right. But like many high-performance cars, getting the right specification is everything.
This, then, is arguably the ultimate specification Cayman – in S form with the more powerful 3.4-litre 321bhp engine, the purist’s choice of six-speed manual gearbox, the pricey but superb carbon ceramic brakes and the uncompromising but superbly supportive bucket seats.
Where the previous Cayman was a relatively discreet-looking machine, the latest version has a bit more personality. There are shades of the 918 Spyder in the front end and rather than hiding in the shadow of the 911 it’s a car you could choose for its looks alone.
Better still, the Cayman has the image to stand up in its own right. It’s no longer the option if you can’t afford a 911; in fact, you may find the odd 911 owner questioning their own judgment.
There’s more space in the cabin and it’s easier to get comfortable as a result. You’ll find a little bit more storage in the cabin, too. Certainly a little less than a similarly sized hatchback, but you won’t struggle to stash keys, phones and the like.
Luggage space requires a little more effort. There is 415 litres on offer, which sounds good, but, as this is a mid-engined car, the space is divided between the front and the rear, so take squashy bags rather than big suitcases.
Everything feels just right from the hot seat; the driving position and the weight of the controls is sublime. Fire up the flat six and there is a complex, delicious growl from the exhaust; in fact, the sports exhaust option means more noise – it’s an essential choice.
The Cayman S is so well honed it can deal with the boring day-to-day driving without effort, but when the road opens up you realise just how good it is. The steering is sharp but weighty and not hyperactive, while the handling balance is simply stunning. You can lean hard on it with complete confidence, and those carbon brakes are hugely reassuring. And most important, the 3.4-litre engine is slick, sonorous and deliciously fast.
A standard Cayman S checks in at a not-unreasonable £48,783 and for that money you’ll have yourself an outstanding sports car. Of course, a few choice options can bump the price at little, and the standard equipment levels are fairly modest.
On the other hand, the Cayman is one of the least-depreciating cars you can buy. Should you be daft enough to sell it, you’ll get more of your money back than with almost all rivals.
If you want your sports car to be a genuine ground-up road machine, rather than a track refugee or a hopped-up version of a standard car, this is the one for you. As long as you need only two seats, you could use it every day and not find it a chore. Whereas, if you’re lucky enough for it to be your weekend plaything, then your weekends are going to be amazing.
Facts & figures
Model: Porsche Cayman S
Price: £48,783
Engine: 3.4-litre petrol unit producing 321bhp and 273lb/ft of torque
Performance: Top speed 175mph, 0-62mph in 5.0 seconds
Economy: 32.1mpg combined
CO2 rating: 206g/km