A year ago this week we were given the first images and details of the
Porsche Cayman S and unsurprisingly the car has been a hit. We drove it and loved its fluidity, though it was obvious that the chassis could handle more power. Sadly, Porsche's policy is that the Cayman S will never be allowed to be quicker than the 911. So instead, the range has been extended downwards, with this week's announcement of a new Porsche Cayman.
In real world terms of course, the new Cayman will still be plenty quick enough for the majority of people. In place of the Cayman S's 3.3-litre flat-six is a 2.7-litre version developing 245bhp. Top speed is 160mph and the 0-62mph sprint takes 6.1 seconds (down 11mph and 0.7 seconds on the S) with the manual gearbox. Peak torque of 201lb.ft is available between 4600 and 6000rpm and fuel consumption on the combined cycle is claimed to be a respectable 30.4mpg.
The standard Porsche Cayman will come with a five-speed manual, though a six-speed manual is optional in conjunction with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). Indicating that buyers of this Cayman may not be so driving focussed is the option of a five-speed automatic, with rocker switches on the steering wheel allowing the driver to override the Tiptronic 'box.
Externally, the new Cayman is distinguished from its faster brother by black brake calipers, black front-spoiler lips, a titanium-coloured logo at the rear and a trapezoidal-shaped tailpipe. Inside, the seats feature Alcantara and the instruments have black-faced dials.
The new Porsche Cayman range starts at £36,220 and will go on sale in Ireland and the UK on 29 July. All cars come with a Porsche Driving Experience programme.
Shane O' Donoghue - 26 May 2006