Porsche Cayman / Cayman S

Porsche Cayman / Cayman S 987

2006-2012

Serious Track CarExcellent

2.7L / 2.9L / 3.4L Flat-6245-320 hp2,855-2,998 lbsMR (Mid-engine, RWD)5/6-speed manual, 5-speed Tiptronic / 7-speed PDK

HPDE Overview

The 987 Cayman is arguably the best-handling car Porsche has ever made at any price. The mid-engine layout, low center of gravity, and telepathic steering create a driving experience that is simply unmatched in this price range. The car communicates with a clarity and precision that makes you a better driver every lap. The Cayman S (3.4L) is the sweet spot — 295-320 hp (depending on year) in a car weighing under 3,000 lbs. The flat-six engine revs eagerly and sounds magnificent at 7,200 RPM. The mid-engine balance means the car rotates predictably and progressively, and you can adjust your line with subtle throttle inputs in a way that front-engine cars cannot replicate. The 987.2 (2009-2012) is preferred for track use due to its improved engine (no IMS bearing issue), direct fuel injection, and available PDK dual-clutch transmission. The 987.1 (2006-2008) is cheaper but carries the IMS bearing risk.

Strengths

Mid-engine layout provides perfect balance and immediate rotation on turn-inPorsche steering feedback is the benchmark — telepathic and perfectly weightedFlat-six engine sounds incredible and revs eagerly to 7,200 RPMUnder 3,000 lbs with genuine sports car power — outstanding power-to-weightPCA Club Racing provides a deep, well-organized competitive racing community987.2 DFI engine eliminated the IMS bearing issue — reliable to 200,000+ miles

Weaknesses

987.1 IMS (intermediate shaft) bearing failure is a documented and catastrophic riskPorsche maintenance costs are significantly higher than domestic or Japanese platformsThe flat-six is mounted low but service access is limited from abovePDK is superior on track but Tiptronic (987.1 only) is terrible and should be avoidedRear trunk storage is limited — track day logistics require creativity

Why People Love It

The 987 Cayman is the best-handling car most people will ever drive. The mid-engine layout, combined with Porsche's legendary steering calibration, creates a driving experience that is addictive and educational simultaneously. The car teaches you to trust your inputs, to be smooth, and to explore the limits progressively. On track, the Cayman makes you feel like a hero because its feedback is so clear and its balance is so intuitive.

Why People Hate It

The IMS bearing issue on 987.1 models is a cloud that hangs over every purchase decision. The cost of Porsche maintenance is significant — everything from oil changes to brake pads costs more than the domestic or Japanese competition. And while the Cayman handles like a dream, its flat-six power is merely adequate — the base 2.7L car genuinely needs more power on long straights. The Porsche dealership experience can also be frustrating for track car owners who are viewed as second-class customers compared to GT3 buyers.

Best For

Porsche enthusiasts, PCA Club Racing participants, drivers who value handling purity above all else, and anyone who has a budget for Porsche-level maintenance.

Not Ideal For

Budget-conscious track drivers, people terrified of IMS bearing failure (buy a 987.2), or anyone who wants big V8 power on the straights.