PORSCHE CAYMAN REVIEW

Porsche Cayman Review

Porsche Cayman

2007 Porsche Cayman Coupe

Ever since Porsche introduced the midengine Boxster as a return to the "affordable" Porsche, enthusiasts have been clamoring for a hardtop version. The argument was that a version with a proper roof would be more rigid, less expensive, lighter and a better performer at the track than a convertible. Pleas were finally answered with the 2006 debut of the Porsche Cayman. Based on the second-generation Boxster, the Cayman coupe (whose name is said to reference an alligator indigenous to Central and South America) shares much of its mechanical midengine underpinnings with its drop-top sibling. However, it does wear unique and very attractive sheet metal.

The Porsche Cayman combines its drop-dead gorgeous looks with brakes that beg to be pushed hot into a corner, a chassis that gladly guides the driver around the apex and a choice of two engines that will enthusiastically sing as they slingshot you down the straightaway. Some of our editors who have driven the Cayman extensively report that its well-balanced chassis could actually handle considerably more power, and it's suspected that Porsche limited the Cayman's capabilities as not to overlap with its seminal 911.

If there's a complaint, it's that the Cayman is priced considerably more than its competitors, especially when a host of desirable options are selected. But when it comes to providing a combination of all-around performance, sublime driver interaction, day-to-day comfort and desirable prestige, we can't think of a better car in this segment than the Cayman.

Current Porsche Cayman

The midengine Porsche Cayman is offered in two models, the base Cayman and the Cayman S. The base Cayman is powered by a 2.7-liter six-cylinder boxer engine that produces 245 horsepower and 201 pound-feet of torque, backed by a five-speed manual transmission. Step up to the Cayman S and the engine expands to 3.4 liters and power grows to 295 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. In addition, the number of cogs in the transmission increases to six. Optional on both models of the Cayman is a five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission with a manual-shift mode.

When it comes to the suspension, the Porsche Cayman takes advantage of its stiffer-than-a-convertible structure by offering a level of handling and nimbleness that is a step above the capabilities of the Boxster. Safety aids include antilock brakes, traction control and stability control, all tuned to intervene only when absolutely necessary so as not to detract from the sporting nature of the Cayman. Optional is Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) which, via a variety of sensors, electronically and automatically adjusts the suspension to optimize either comfort or handling, depending on the setting and the driver's level of aggression. Larger wheels and tires round out the suspension options and help to improve braking. Braking performance is further enhanced on the Cayman S by optional carbon-ceramic brakes.

The interior accommodations take their cue from the Boxster and offer the typical Porsche combination of sport and luxury, with leather and metallic accents decorating the cabin. The leather-appointed seats possess the ability to both hold the driver in place during spirited maneuvers and to coddle driver and passenger during more serene outings. High-end audio and navigation are available on both Cayman models, though the base stereo offerings are disappointing for a car in this price range. Cargo room is generous for such a small and sporting vehicle, as the midengine layout allows for both fore and aft cargo areas that together equal the trunk space of a midsize family sedan.

Past Porsche Cayman Models

The Porsche Cayman made its debut in the 2006 model year. For the first year, only the Cayman S model was available. The base Cayman model launched for 2007.