Porsche is widely regarded for making some of the best handling cars that offered a highly immersive driving experience. Porsche has been diversifying their portfolio for the past couple of decades and we got to experience the Cayenne, Panamera, and a baby 911- the mid-engined Cayman. However, with the 718 Cayman and its 4-cylinder motor, enthusiasts weren’t happy.
Over the years, both the Cayman and Boxster (it’s convertible version) has seen a successful run. The 718 generation was criticized for its muted 4-cylinder that robbed the sports car experience and wasn’t getting the sales Porsche expected around Europe and America. The 718 however, was a huge hit in China where tax laws are lenient for smaller-displacement engines. With the introduction of the Cayman GTS 4.0, Porsche has effectively dumped the GT4’s flat-six powertrain into the 718 chassis.
Paired with the option of a manual transmission, the 2021 Porsche Cayman GTS 4.0 is now a better alternative to its more expensive sibling, the 911. Or is it? Let’s find out.
A De-wimged Cayman GT4
Before we jump into the specifics, the Cayman GTS 4.0 is in essence a GT4 for the street. Much like its track focussed cousin, the GTS uses a 4.0-liter flat-six taken off of the Carrera. While the Carrera is turbocharged, Porsche’s GT division decided to bin the idea of forced induction and went the proper route. Power is rated at 394 horsepower and 309 lb-ft of torque, a nominal decrease of 20 horsepower from the GT4. The powertrain is mated to a 7-speed PDK or a 6-speed manual as a no-cost option. Unlike the GT4 which sings to 8000 RPM, the engine in the GTS 4.0 is limited to 7800 RPM.
Aside from that, everything outside is similar to the 718 albeit the GTS 4.0 badging on either side and on the rear bumper. If you disliked the over-the-top looks of the GT4, you have yourself a subdued alternative. Inside, it’s all Porsche with everything where you expect it to be. Unlike the 4-cylinder 718, the GTS sports an Alcantara interior with contrast stitching all around. In typical Porsche fashion, most of the things are optional and adds to the base MSRP of $86,800.
Cayman GTS 4.0: The Ultimate Daily Driver
If you’ve been familiar with Porsches, then their ability to handle the best of both worlds has been praised across the community. The Porsche Cayman GTS 4.0 makes for a brilliant example as the ride is compliant to an extent that many wouldn’t complain about its comfort. Some might even question it being a slightly sporty VW Golf GTI. Well, that’s true, and if in comfort mode, the Cayman GTS 4.0 is as good as any hot hatch and is more than a worthy companion for your weekend shopping.
The dual-trunk helps with utility and the compliant ergonomics offers a comfortable ride across challenging roads. Stumble upon a scratch of sweet tarmac? Dial the drive-mode selector to Sport and the GT credentials in its “Grand Turismo Sport” moniker come to life. Imagine the experience of driving a naturally aspirated motor that revs to 7800 rpm! Couple that with the manual gearbox and the whole experience is nothing short of magnificent. The chassis as with Porsches of yesteryears is a brilliant exhibition of engineering prowess as it displays an elegant balance and superb levels of feedback with minimal flex. Perfectly blending in with its surroundings whilst being an agile weapon, the GTS 4.0 balances the best of relaxed commute and spirited driving. Easily rendering this pocket-rocket the best ultimate daily driver currently on offer.
A Better Alternative To The 911
Prior to the GTS, the 718 was very close to being the best value for money Porsche. However, its rather depressing 4-cylinder motor hindered it from getting the title. However, when the GT4 came out, the title was challenged yet again but, its relatively stiff race-bred suspension and less sound deadening took away the title. Now, however, with the 718 GTS 4.0, Porsche has the perfect blend of mid-engined dynamics, an engaging 6-speed manual, and the aural pleasures of having a flat-six, all with a cheaper price tag.
The 911 in its 992 generation has grown larger in every metric. While that’s a good thing, it’s taken away what a Porsche used to be, a small and nimble sports car. Even though the base Carrera does come with a manual, it still has the rather muted turbocharged flat-six which takes away all the fun. The GTS 4.0 has brought in an extremely lucrative package wherein you’re offered everything you expect from a proper Porsche, the engagement, thrills, and relative ease of use.
Considering the base Carrera with its 379 horsepower motor go for $115,000, having the Cayman GTS 4.0 makes sense given that it makes 394 horsepower and is around $30,000 cheaper. You get a better sensory experience, an engaging drive with a manual transmission, smaller dimensions, and surprisingly better practicality. From an enthusiast standpoint, we’d have no second thoughts on going to a Porsche dealership and speccing a 718 Cayman GTS 4.0.
Sources: YouTube, CarAndDriver, Wikipedia