Porsche's history of creating driver-focused sports cars is almost unmatched by any other manufacturer. With comfort, build quality and driving feel at the heart of every model, you are sure to have a great time no matter which car you choose.
Perhaps the best all-rounder in the Porsche catalog is the Cayman S, as it provides just enough speed and comfort to be a great sports car, but is not so expensive that you'll never have the chance to ever own one. Below are some things you should know before buying a Porsche Cayman S.
10 Mid-Engined
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Unusually for Porsche, anyone who may be interested in buying a Cayman should be aware that they are closer to a mid-engined sports car than the typical rear-engined layout you may find in the 911.
This is important because Porsche's have a very unique and particular feel, so it's important that potential customers are aware the Cayman won't drive exactly like a 911 Turbo, for example. The weight distribution will be slightly different and therefore the handling and feel will be changed somewhat.
9 History And Range
The Porsche Cayman S was first introduced in 2005 with the Porsche Cayman S 987C. Interestingly, despite being the S variant of the Cayman, this car actually arrived before the standard Cayman model.
In 2009, an updated version was created which was even faster than the original. Despite having an updated interior, exterior, engine, gearbox and suspension, this is technically, according to Porsche at least, still a 987C model. A 981C model was introduced in 2012 and was in production until 2016. Since 2016 we've had the 718 series, which includes the Cayman, Cayman S, and Cayman GTS, which is essentially a faster version of the Cayman S.
8 Boxster/Cayman Difference
Now despite having different names, there isn't a whole lot of difference between Cayman and Boxster models. Less informed customers may be confused to find out that, underneath, they are essentially the same car.
Typically, regardless of whether you are choosing the Cayman S or the Boxster S, the only distinguishable difference will be that the Cayman models are available as coupés only and the Boxster models are available as convertibles only. Other than the obvious differences in weight with any convertible version of a vehicle, these cars are practically identical, which is something to consider for a potential customer.
7 Price
Pricing is important to consider, especially for those with a genuine interest in buying a new Porsche. Luckily, the Cayman S models are one of the most entry level cars in the Porsche lineup, meaning you won't have to break the bank if you do indeed intend to purchase one.
It should be said that they are still a Porsche vehicle and this means they are in not technically a cheap car. However, a 718 Cayman S will set you back just over $70,000 with a GTS being just over $86,000. For reference, the entry level option for a 911 model, the 911 Carrera, is almost exactly $100,000, making the Cayman S and even GTS practically a bargain.
6 Reliability
It's often said that German cars are almost unbreakable, and this is true with Cayman S models too. Fortunately, if well looked after, Cayman models will have very few faults in their lifetime, making it an excellent choice for the more cautious buyer.
The only problems that seem to appear for Cayman S owners seem to be slight electrical faults or sometimes issues with warped brakes due to them not being used hard enough, so a track day or two could be in order for potential customers. All of this means that if you are considering buying a used Cayman S, you should have nothing to worry about, which is great news.
5 Performance
At the heart of any Porsche vehicle, Cayman S included, is its performance. It's a sports car, after all, and potential buyers will of course be interested in how fast the Porsche is more than almost anything else.
Despite being the most toned-down Porsche, along with the Boxster of course, the Cayman is still quick, especially the Cayman S and GTS models, which are slightly enhanced versions. Across all variants and years, the Cayman S has a top speed of around 170 mph and will accelerate from 0-60 mph in around 4 seconds. One important thing to note is that the 718 models have all changed from naturally aspirated flat-six engines to turbocharged flat-four engines. However, despite this, the Cayman S will still handle excellently in typical Porsche fashion and should be a dream to drive whether on track or road.
4 Practicality
Speaking of road use, the Porsche cars and especially the Cayman S models will be more than capable of providing good performance when used as a daily driver. As for fuel efficiency, most Cayman S models provide good enough performance in the sports car category, averaging anywhere between 20-30 mpg, depending on which model you choose.
One thing to note, however, is that the Cayman S won't provide all that much in the way of storage or cargo areas, so bear that in mind if you plan on carrying a lot with your new Porsche. Other than this, however, the Cayman S should provide a smooth and comfortable enough ride to be used every day without issue.
3 Loud
One negative that doesn't exactly fall into the practicality area for the Cayman S is the sound of the engine. Most gearheads like a loud engine, and almost nothing beats the noise of one that's well-made and powerful, but this isn't always good.
Unfortunately, it seems that with some of the older Cayman S models, the engine noise is so loud that it is quite common for drivers to actually use headphones whilst driving as to not go completely insane due to the constant volume. Obviousl,y a good engine noise is nice but to have one that is never quiet could be an issue, particularly if driving late at night as there is a genuine risk that it could wake neighbors and cause for some unwanted notoriety.
2 The Interior Features
As far as interior features go, the Cayman S models are fantastic. Some older models include Bluetooth connectivity and touch screen infotainment. Newer models like the 718 include more modern features such as heated seats and fully digital displays.
Overall the Porsche is stacked with plenty of features, however, it won't quite match features found on other cars like comparable vehicles from Mercedes as the Cayman cars are much more driver focused.
1 Comfort
The Porsche lineup as a whole provides some excellent cars where comfort is concerned. Plenty of attention has been given to the seats and driving position to ensure a comfortable drive as much as a fast one.
Even older models have plenty of legroom due to having to only fit two seats in the Cayman, and leather seats are available on most models, making for a comfortable enough experience, regardless of which Cayman S you choose.