Porsche slid the mid-engined Cayman S between the Boxster and the 911 in their lineup in 2006, and they have added a slightly less maniacal version for the 2007 model year with the introduction of the base Cayman. Both confidence-inspiring coupes handle better than just about anything on the road, including the Boxster, thanks to extra torsional rigidity provided by the roof. Virtually no oversteer or understeer is evident when either model is thrown through a corner.
The base Cayman uses a 2.7L flat six-cylinder engine that produces 245 horsepower and a five-speed manual transmission. A manual six-speed and a five-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission are available as well. The Cayman S is outfitted with a 295-horsepower 3.4L six-cylinder that is coupled with a six-speed manual, though the Tiptronic can be substituted here as well. The Cayman S can reportedly dash to 60 mph in only 5.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 171 mph.
Both models have stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and side impact air bags. We were impressed with the stopping power provided by the large four-wheel disc brakes. For those who need ever heartier binders, ceramic composite brakes are optional.
The base Cayman is very well equipped, with standard fog lamps, heated power mirrors, leather seats, a trip computer, HomeLink, cruise control, air conditioning, and a CD player. The Cayman S adds 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust, red brake calipers, power seats, and automatic climate control.
Bose surround sound, rain-sensing wipers, self-dimming mirrors, adaptive sport seats, and heated seats can be added to both models, as can xenon headlights, aluminum trim, and a navigation system. Porsche also allows a degree of customization--including choices in decor, steering wheels, floor mats, and exterior wheels--that far surpasses almost all of its competitors.
Nimble Handling
So Much Fun It Should Be Illegal
Gorgeous Looks.
For 2007, the new-for-2006 Cayman S has been joined by the also-entertaining Cayman, which is powered by a 2.7L six-cylinder engine instead of the 3.4L found in the S. Nonetheless, the base Cayman is just as tossable on a Sunday drive and costs nearly $10,000 less.
Aside from its magnificent lines, the 2007 Porsche Cayman is one of the most agile cars on the road, which translates into pure fun. The new base model puts the Cayman within reach of more consumers and, even though it has 50 fewer horsepower, it is still more satisfying to drive than most of its competitors.
