Porsche in Germany started producing the mid engined rear wheel drive two seated Cayman model in 2005. It is a coupe model and comes off the back of the Boxster model. I suppose you could say it is a faster and harder version of the Boxster.
The Cayman blends sublime handling, perfect balance and great performance
to make one of the most perfect driver”s cars around. Compared to the iconic 911, it”s affordable and less intimidating to drive too.
Like the Boxster, the engine is actually mounted in the middle, so there”s less weight over the back wheels, while seemingly endless amounts of grip and zero body roll means it flatters even novice performance car drivers.
The perfect driving position and neatly designed cabin add to the sporty feel plus it”s even practical, with two useful luggage areas.
The model pictured is an S version which runs a 3.4litre flat six boxer engine producing a respectable 290bhp with 250lb/ft of torques. All this power will thrust you from 0-60mph in just 5.2 seconds via the 6 speed manual gearbox which will then carry you to a top speed of 171mph.
With such performance figures you would be forgiven in thinking that this sports car would be very sore on fuel, and at 26mpg combined cycle it isn’t a car I would want
to be fuelling over 20k miles a year.
The Cayman has a stiffer suspension set-up than the Boxster on which it is based, although it is difficult to tell how much more agile it is than the roadster away from the race track.
The Cayman seems to respond intuitively to even the slightest input from the driver – the nose will go exactly where you point it while the long-travel throttle always ensures the car accelerates smoothly as well as quickly.
On the road, the powerful brakes have a little more in reserve if necessary. The ride is on the firm side, especially noticeable over speed bumps, but at higher speeds it is impressively smooth and composed.
There”s decent space for two adults and the seats offer plenty of adjustment and good support. The view from the driver”s seat is typical of a modern Porsche, with high-quality switches and precise controls.
The steering wheel adjusts for reach and height and there is plenty of seat adjustment to achieve the best driving position. The interior has a purposeful feel and the finish is superb with upmarket and soft touch materials used throughout.
Words and Photos: Graham Curry
