Porsche Cayman / Cayman S / GTS 4.0

Porsche Cayman / Cayman S / GTS 4.0 718

2017-present

Serious Track CarExcellent

2.0L / 2.5L Turbo Flat-4 / 4.0L Flat-6 (GTS 4.0)300-394 hp2,944-3,109 lbsMR (Mid-engine, RWD)6-speed manual / 7-speed PDK

HPDE Overview

The 718 Cayman divides opinion. The base turbo flat-four models (2.0L and 2.5L) offer more torque than the 981 but lose the naturally aspirated flat-six character that defined the Cayman. The GTS 4.0, however, is the masterpiece — a naturally aspirated 4.0L flat-six making 394 hp with a 7,800 RPM redline. It is the best Porsche you can buy for track use short of a GT4. The 718's chassis is the best yet. Stiffer than the 981, with improved body control and more precise steering. The GTS 4.0 with the 6-speed manual and sport chrono package is a near-perfect track car. The flat-four turbo models are faster in a straight line than the 981 but less emotionally engaging — the engine sound is industrial rather than musical. The PDK is lightning fast and the ideal choice for lap times. The manual is slower but more engaging. Both transmissions handle track abuse without complaint.

Strengths

GTS 4.0 flat-six at 7,800 RPM is one of the finest engines currently in productionStiffest Cayman chassis ever — incredible body control and precisionTurbo models offer massive mid-range torque for strong corner exitsPDK shifts faster than any previous generationPASM Sport Suspension lowers the car 20mm and firms the dampers

Weaknesses

Flat-four turbo models sound mediocre compared to the flat-sixGTS 4.0 is very expensive — $90,000+ newElectric steering continues to improve but purists miss hydraulicTurbo models can heat-soak the intercooler during sustained track sessionsPorsche options list inflates the price rapidly

Why People Love It

The GTS 4.0 is the best Porsche that is not a GT car. The 4.0L flat-six at 7,800 RPM is one of the last great naturally aspirated engines. The chassis is the most refined Cayman ever, and the reliability is excellent.

Why People Hate It

The turbo flat-four models are fast but soulless. The flat-four sound is a dealbreaker for many Porsche enthusiasts. The GTS 4.0 is wonderful but costs nearly $100,000 — at that price, you can buy a used GT4.

Best For

GTS 4.0 buyers who want the finest current NA Porsche, PCA racers, and track day enthusiasts who value Porsche engineering.

Not Ideal For

Budget buyers, flat-four haters, or anyone who believes Porsche should never have put a four-cylinder in the Cayman.