A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.6/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
4.8
Comfort & Interior
4.2
Running Costs
3.2
Practicality
3
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
The Porsche Cayman delivers pure driving pleasure in a mid-engined sports car package that few rivals can match. This two-seater coupe combines Porsche’s legendary engineering expertise with everyday usability, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts who want genuine performance without supercar complexity. The Cayman sits perfectly between the entry-level Boxster and the flagship 911, offering brilliant handling dynamics and impressive build quality that justifies its premium positioning.
What sets the Cayman apart from alternatives like the Audi TT or BMW Z4 is its exceptional chassis balance and steering precision. The mid-mounted flat-six engine provides optimal weight distribution, delivering a driving experience that feels connected and engaging on both winding country roads and track days. Modern versions feature advanced infotainment systems and comfortable interiors, proving that sports cars can be practical daily drivers.
The Cayman represents excellent value in the sports coupe segment, offering Porsche DNA at a more accessible price point than many expect. Whether you’re seeking weekend thrills or a refined grand tourer, this German sports car delivers the performance pedigree and ownership prestige that make it a compelling choice for discerning drivers.
What's the Porsche Cayman Like to Drive?
The Porsche Cayman is engineered for pure performance, with a range of turbocharged engines that deliver thrilling acceleration. The base 2.0-litre four-cylinder produces around 300 horsepower, propelling the Cayman from 0-60 mph in just 5.1 seconds. For those wanting more power, the S variant’s 2.5-litre engine cranks out 350 horsepower, cutting that time to a blistering 4.4 seconds. The optional PDK dual-clutch transmission shifts with lightning precision, though the manual gearbox offers a more engaging experience for purists.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.0L 4-cylinder Turbo / 2.5L 4-cylinder Turbo
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Power Output
300 - 350 bhp
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0-60 mph
5.1 - 4.4 seconds
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MPG Combined
32 - 35 mpg
- Boot Space
- 275 litres (front + rear combined)
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the Porsche Cayman: Comfort & Features
Step inside the Cayman and you’re greeted by an interior that perfectly balances luxury with purposeful design. The dashboard features Porsche’s signature five-gauge cluster, with the prominent central tachometer reminding you this car prioritizes driving above all else. The materials throughout are exceptional, from the soft-touch plastics to the available leather upholstery. The sport seats provide excellent support during aggressive driving while remaining comfortable on longer journeys.
The Porsche Cayman is a masterclass in mid-engined performance, offering razor-sharp handling and thrilling acceleration from its turbocharged engines. The 300-hp base model and 350-hp S variant deliver precise power delivery, though the cabin lacks the refinement of its peers. While practicality is limited, its engineering excellence and driver-focused design justify its premium price.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a Porsche Cayman?
As a premium sports car, the Porsche Cayman comes with appropriately premium running costs. Fuel economy is reasonable for the performance level, with real-world returns of 30-35 mpg possible during mixed driving. Insurance costs will be significant due to the car’s performance capabilities and desirability among thieves. The initial purchase price reflects the car’s engineering excellence and brand prestige, starting around £50,000 for used examples and climbing significantly for newer models.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Porsche Cayman
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BMW Z4
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Alpine A110
|
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £50,000 | £45,000 | £52,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.0L Turbo | 2.0L Turbo | 1.8L Turbo |
| Power | 300 bhp | 255 bhp | 252 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 5.1 seconds | 5.8 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 33 mpg | 40 mpg | 40 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 275 litres | 281 litres | 196 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Mid-engine layout, PDK gearbox, Track precision | Retractable hardtop, Luxury interior, BMW reliability | Lightweight construction, Pure handling, French flair |
Is the Porsche Cayman Practical for Everyday Use?
For a sports car, the Porsche Cayman offers surprising practicality. The combination of front and rear storage compartments provides a total of 275 litres of space, enough for weekend luggage or a reasonable shopping trip. The front boot is particularly useful for larger items, while the rear compartment behind the engine handles smaller bags perfectly. Inside the cabin, there are adequate storage spaces for phones, wallets, and drinks, though space is at a premium compared to conventional cars.
The Porsche Cayman stands as a masterclass in sports car engineering, delivering uncompromising performance wrapped in stunning design. It combines Porsche’s legendary attention to detail with mid-engine dynamics that create one of the most rewarding driving experiences available. While it demands premium ownership costs and limits you to two seats, it excels in its primary mission of providing pure driving pleasure.