Great video! I have owned both cars, the 981S (3.4) and 981 Base (2.7). Having driven both the entry-level model being fitted with a 2.7-litre flat six with 271bhp and 214lb ft. Its fair to say it may be a little flatter below 4500rpm but these flat 6 cars rev out much higher and the car will sing to you, it’s by no means a poor relation to faster versions, still more than fast enough, and soul-stirring when you rev it out on a country road - which, really, is the whole point! If you go for the 2.7, my advice is to look for a well optioned 981 (2.7) and you can't go wrong - PDK is amazing and faster gear changes than you will ever manage in a manual, but go manual if you want to feel more connected with the driver input. You can and will lose your license just as easily in a 981 2.7 (on UK roads) and I can also tell you that the 0-62 times are negligible compareing the 2.7 & 3.4 - when you are out together with an 981S owner, you will not be blown away by them leaving you in their tracks - naturally you will be if its a 981 GT4 (3.8), 718 GTS/GT4 (4.0) which all have crazy power. Get a 981 base with Sport Chrono and PDK and it will absolutely keep pace with a 981S without Chrono/PDK. Don't be fooled into thinking it has to be a 981S. That said, go for what your budget affords you, you will not be disappointed with any Cayman, of any generation. And finally, I am a firm believer that when the Governments of the day decide to start pressuring us to go EV, the taxes and other disincentives will be hitting hard on all other models, the 981 base (2.7) could very well be the one to have. Kills me to say it, as a recent buyer of a Cayman 4.0 GTS - I am not as convinced as many that the larger engine variants will be as valuable as they are in todays market come the changes to EV becoming more widespread and enforced by governments.
I bought a 2014 Base 4 yrs ago, Red Amaranth metallic, PDK. I have ordered PSE. Everything you said about this car is exactly on point. I paid 40k and it would sell today around 45k, but no way am I selling. I am driving this car like it is supposed to be driven🏎
Just bought a manual 981 Cayman S. Added a custom sports exhaust. What a car! Just brings a huge smile to my face every time I drive it. Pretty much the perfect sports car 👍
@@aveautomotive2441 yeah I’d definitely recommend it. I was a bit sceptical of the need for a sports exhaust given how good the induction noise is when you’re driving and tbh the standard exhaust already sounds good. But I’m so glad I went ahead with the sports exhaust, has genuinely transformed the driving experience. Find myself winding down the windows and revving it out as I go through tunnels like a hoon. What a noise! 😬🤟👍
Actually one other point of interest (maybe); I’m in Australia and the local Porsche dealers (and I checked with 3) could not order some of the parts needed to install a genuine PSE. So I ended up with a custom job. It’s a great job imho and I am really happy with it but interesting I couldn’t get the genuine Porsche sports exhaust fitted
@@paulelliott3056 same here I had ordered a Porsche sports exhaust from Brighton Porsche for my 981 Boxster s still no ETA I decided to import a an active soul sports exhaust system should be here in 6 weeks so looking forward to it
Sat in a 987.1 Boxster earlier this year and the owner was an indie racer back in the 1980s from Italy. He was able to attack some corners with insane amount of speed in the OEM Boxster 2.7L. Since that day I was amazed with Boxster and finally purchased a 987.2 Boxster 2.9L 2 months ago.
I would love a 987…they are only in the low to mid $20k range right now. Seems like a bargain to me! I hope you’re enjoying your 987.2! Must be a joy every time you hit the road
I have a 987.1 Cayman. Tricked up a little to 365hp. Bilstein R9 s... Very quick. Bought used at Brumos in 2010 with 42,000 miles. Did the Hurley Haywood driver Ed. Awesome 👍 Now at 487,000 miles... THAT'S DAILY DRIVING! Engine is all original. Just change Oil and filter every 5-6k. Just had a new starter installed... Original starter... Ha... 😅 Best car ever. Still a kick every time I get in it. Headers via stock exhaust... It is really all you need. In Florida routine merge is at 90-100mph for safety as traffic moves steady at 85mph. Don't be afraid of mileage. Awesome cars! John Russell Dade City Florida USA.
I have an 06 Cayman S and love it. What's even better a friend of mine at work, his brother is a retired Porsche mechanic and does side work out of his pole barn.
How is the 987? I’ve always wanted to test one out. They seem like they have a special place in Cayman history as the first obviously, but also the only one with hydraulic steering. The Porsche mechanic friend is clutch! (No pun intended lol)
@aveautomotive2441 Well, I can tell you this. I had it up to 165, and it stayed straight as an arrow. I am 53, and I had 1986 mustang gt, in high-school . The driving experience is second to none in my cayman. I have also had a 2006 vette. I'll take my car over both anyday.
As soon as i found out the 718 was rumored to be a turbo 4 i rushed to the dealer and was fortunate enough to get an order in for a '16 Cayman S (mine had to be one of the last 981's built). It was very difficult not to check all the option boxes but it was also refreshing to craft the car exactly how I wanted it. Great cars and as time goes on they will be appreciated more and more.
We both have always wanted to spec a car we love exactly the way we want. I (the bearded presenter) will be in the market for a 986 or 987 Boxster in the next two years. I can’t wait to enjoy that flat-6 howl on the daily. I hope you get to keep yours for years to come!
A lot of people buy these then get rid of them after a few years. 3 or even 6 owners in 10 years. I looked at a nice one where I would be the 4th owner in 10 years. To me that suggests maybe it's best to stick with my top spec CX5 turbo instead, I can pretend I’m driving a sports car 😎
I just bought a near identical car to that one, a 2016 Cayman S in Guards Red/Black leather, 6-speed. I did pay a little more at just under $65k for a pretty clean 7k mile example. Mine arrived from out of state about 10 days after you posted the initial impressions video. My first impressions were pretty similar to that, lol! Mine is pretty low on options, but that was my preference. I wanted to avoid things like the headlight washers, parking sensors and nav knot on top of the car and was able to do that. The only things I wanted but didn't get were the Carrera S wheels and the sports exhaust. I will add the wheels for sure at some point and consider the exhaust. It's definitely a keepsake type car for me, especially where cars are headed as you both touched on. Of course, I really wanted the new GTS with the glorious 4.0-liter engine, but the supply issues coupled with dealer markups really made that cost prohibitive relative to what I felt comfortable spending. And the new GTS comes with headlight washers, parking sensors and the knot on top along with sports chrono which I didn't want. I thought I would be a little disappointed when I got the 981 version but that couldn't be further from the truth. It's been pretty amazing so far and I have come to appreciate the subtle styling differences that distinguish it from the 982 version.
That’s awesome! I feel like the spec you got was well worth the price given the market. We haven’t gotten a chance to drive a GTS 4.0 or a GT4, but I have a feeling the 981 Cayman S will end up being more of a thrill on the road as you can go through the gears with slightly less fear of going to jail lol. Are you planning to track yours at all? I think the stock exhaust is surprisingly good, but some aftermarket options really make it a more visceral experience…have to love the sound of a Porsche flat 6! I hope you get to enjoy yours for years to come.
@@aveautomotive2441 Thanks! I originally planned on getting the sports exhaust but after driving it some more, I think I might just keep the stock one. Some more volume at the push of a button would be nice though, as long as it sounded like the stock system when off. No track plans yet but you know how that goes!
I have a 2014 Cayman Base, bought 4 years ago with 27k on the engine. I was on the fence about adding a PSE or having performance headers and sport cats installed. According to my local indy, the headers will add horsepower for sure and the sound will change to amore aggressive one. Installing in 11 days, can’t wait 🏎
Why wouldn't you want sport chrono? Even on the 6MT not only do you get the cool center gauge but it also adds Rev matching, a sport+ setting and IIRC stiffer motor mounts.
@@wymotome I mainly meant on the 718 as I don't like how the clock looks. I do like what comes along with it and would have been fine with it on my 981. I think they did a better job integrating it on the 981.
My 987.1 base 5spd, with sport chrono,(yes, it sharpens the throttle response and changes the way the rev limiter kicks in), is a blast to drive on narrow, twisty back roads. Might change up to a 981 but the steering? I'll drive one to decide. Great video gents!
I was fortunate to get a 2022 Cayman GTS at msrp. And like you said that formula of rear wheel drive mid engine flat six manual transmission is going to be a unicorn. Best car I’ve ever driven dynamically and I’m never going to sell it.
Congrats, I've had a request in at the dealer for one. I'm coming up on waiting 8 months, not too concerned when I get it but am concerned they'll stop making them before my number comes up.
Good review, well balanced and thoughtful. I am fortunate to own some very good sheet metal and the 991 GTS (PASM/PTV/PSV/SC etc) is one of them. There is something magical about the 3.4L flat six with 340HP and 380Nm its very much right sized for most back roads and with PTV it's so quick to adjust through corners and with changes in grip level - genuine fantastic drivers car. You can wring it out without too much worry, but if you did the same in my 991.2 GT3 RS you wouldn't be popular 😀 with local LE. PS I'm agnostic with regard to manual or PDK, both are great and the PDK with SC in Sport Plus mode is a blast e.g. riotous launch control, louder and even more dynamic through the corners (active engine mounts). Theres a lot of engineering Porsche cars that people aren't aware for example the 981 chassis is one of the most rigid ever made ~ 40,000N per degree of flex - that is super car country.
Thank you for the kind words. We really appreciate that! There really is something magical! It’s such an exceptional and joyful engine. The PDK is amazing too, so I totally get the agnosticism. How long have you had your 991.2 GT3? Sounds like you have an incredible lineup of cars. I didn’t know that about the 981 chassis. That honestly makes it even more exciting. I’ll have to pass that along to Nick (the owner and non-bearded presenter)
@@aveautomotive2441 I've had the 991.2 GT3 RS since the end of 2019 (from new), from my perspective its the best RS Porsche have ever produced and still useable on public roads. The new 992 GT3 RS is a technical masterpiece in aero but in real world performance it hasn't moved the game on and is very harsh on public roads (50% higher spring rates over the very stiff 991.2 GT3 RS). The 981 GTS was also purchased as a new order from Porsche so I got it exactly the way I like e.g. Guards red, with GTS interior, the simple sports plus seats, Bose, guards red coloured dials and clock, Porsche torque vectoring, Porsche active suspension management, sports chrono, performance sports exhaust and PDK, plus with it being a GTS it has additional HP torque, a third radiator front splitter and rear diffuser. Its low on matt black Carrera wheels and just looks great. I really laughed when you and your friend made the on ramp and corner comments, the Cayman rips corners like theres no tomorrow. Very glad you both enjoyed the S, its a very fine car, it will stand the test of time and everyday you get to drive it is a great day. PS Your reviews come across as natural and straightforward - a lot of "reviewers" make the mistake of parroting press releases or towing a company line. As a long time Porsche owner I know the 911 is not the be all and end all even though it is very good. The NA 3.4L, 3.8L and 4L Cayman are every bit as good and indeed often more engaging than most standard 911s.
Really informative video. Interesting to see the prices you are paying in the US compared to the UK. My 2014 Cayman S seems to have all the possible options- sport, sport plus PSE PASM PDK and I suppose due the $/£ rate makes it quite a good buy as I paid substantially less than what you are stating. I've had a 993, again, a great car but they are getting too expensive and a worry to drive on the road in case of some accident reducing it's value. The driving experience of the Cayman is just so sublime, and a friend of mine who has had every kind of modern Porsche agrees that the performance beats many of the modern 911's -and as for for being a poor man's Porsche, don't even think about it -that is only an argument people who have never driven a Porsche offer. I'll be hanging onto mine for a while.
What does your friend/you think of the base 987 cayman? Nick owns the Cayman S in the review, but I’m (the bearded one) thinking of getting a 987 base if I can find one!
@@aveautomotive2441 my mate only drove the more modern Porsches which he leased to could chop and change-which he did!-that is why I valued his opinion-he had the Cayman 981 GTS , 911 Turbo, Boxster 981 GTS , the wife has the Cayenne. TBH he said the 981 Boxster GTS was his absolute favourite- he didn't like the 718 Cayman. If you ask me regarding the 987 Cayman, great car, but I'd go for the Gen 2 model with the 2.7 engine .
I have a 2014 model Cayman S in agate gray. i think it's the perfect car, looks wise, performance wise, sound wise, handling wise. I test drove a 997 because it was in the same $ region and let's be honest everyone secretly wants to have a 911 - but the difference was day and night. the 997 felt like a heavy, old car.
@@BobC59 I can only assume, maybe because the 911 was first and has the legend status to it. since the cayman looks a bit like the 911 from the outer shape, it will always be compared. when something is constantly compared to something, many people will tend to buy the original for peace of minds sake. it's not rational, the 911 is more expensive, especially in maintenance at the dealer when you don't do everything yourself, assurance is higher, basic models handle worse, they're larger, heavier (newer models) and what not but still it's the most iconic car of all times so yeah me included, if i had more money i would not have taken the cayman, but a boxster -plus- a 911 coupe maybe an old G-model. If you feel excited when you see these old g models 964 and what not, you will somehow feel what i mean when i say everybody (who loves p-cars) wants to have a 911. it's an emotional thing that some people either have , or not. I have never heard of someone fantasizing about porsches maybe since their childhood with posters and model cars, and then end up buying a Cayenne.
@@xstingrayx Funny thing about that. I’ve never had much interest in Porsches throughout my 60 years. Drove a 911 once and didn’t think much of it - just a small, low, German luxury car that handled well. I had a Miata and an S2000 but due to my tall, aging body, decided to sell them and get something with more space- Boxster topping the list. I ended up loving the near-exotic feel and performance of the 981 Cayman: Light, mid-engine, pretty darn fast (I got the S), outstanding cornering, etc… I absolutely love my Cayman, but have no desire to ever own a 911. I will admit however that I might be a little happier with a 981 GTS or just an S with sport suspension. If I ever move from a 981 Cayman, it will probably be into a Lotus or a 12-15 year-old F430.
@@kevinreilly7091 Different animals completely, so get both! (haha, but read on). Either is a fantastic car, and since you clearly have a love for being one with a light and nimble sports car, you will be happy either way - but in MANY different ways depending on what you choose. It’s all about which experience and attributes are most important to you. just turned 64 and honestly wanted a bit more leg and shoulder room as my back and joints get achy (Im 6’1” 225, so always was a snug fit. Boxster/Cayman are small and light, but LOTS of space. Bottom line - and I know this probably won’t help: I am smitten with the Cayman, but I am hoping to find an NC Miata (most legroom of any Miata) is club form with retractable hardtop because I do miss that “basic roadster” experience. But to be clear, I will not replace the Cayman because it is as close to a Ferrari as you can get without the impossibly difficult and expensive serving. I want both, and the Miata is “cheap” to buy and own, will keep its value. I had been looking at Boxsters to get best of both worlds, but it doesn’t quite work like that. An S2000 is an S2000. The Boxster & Cayman are solid, beautiful, GERMAN beauties with creature comforts and feel like an Audi sedan - only in a near-perfect body/chassis/powertrain layout. Anyway, I went all-in on performance and went with Cayman. Good luck! Please let me know what you decide - or keep the dialogue going here. Obviously I love talking about my babies 😄
@kevinreilly7091 I own both a base 981 pdk and an AP1 S2000. Porsche cable gearboxes could only wish to feel as good as an S2000. Roof down the S2000 is unbeatable. The Cayman doesnt come close. But with the roof up. The S2000 is a buzzy uncomfortable mess. They are both very different cars. But you honestly cant go wrong with either. Unless your dailying the S2000 in bad traffic and often get bad weather. If thats the case. Get the Cayman
@@ForgetfulFoot I concur! The Cayman shifts fine, but there are no so close to perfect as the gearbox in that S2000. Zero regrets getting the Cayman, despite costing double the what I got for the AP1. if I had the space, I probably would have kept the S2000. Then again, selling and making money on the Honda was part of my rationale for getting the Cayman. I probably lost every dime of “profit” from the S2000 the minute I paid for the Porsche, but Im in this for the passion of driving. Money is just the enabler. 1 mile from my house and onto the beautiful backroads in a great sorts car, and all worries disappear
I’m lucky to have a 2015 Cayman GTS, PDK. By far the best car I’ve ever owned, including four previous Porsches. I’m keeping this one and driving the snot out of it at every opportunity.
ADDED INFO: 2014 Cayman S cost $56,300 on Bring A Trailer (auction site), meaning with fee I paid about $59,000. May have been a bit high for March 2023, but has the right options,
Still not a bad deal for one with all the option you really wanted! The PPF is a big win too. I bet the seats look awesome! Sounds like a great interior color. What is the exterior color?
@@aveautomotive2441 Basalt Black (metallic black). Has Boxster S wheels in a deep gray/charcoal (still cannot find Porsche name for it), so the car looks very stealthy in all “almost black”. (Edit: The original buyer optioned the car, so I am pretty sure he picked those Boxster S wheels to match the paint - and did a great job!). Yes, the interior looks fantastic. Its a love or hate thing. but I those “new baseball glove”-colored panels give an exotic look and breaks up the otherwise all-black (charcoal really) interior.
Nice video Gents, I sold my 981 S PDK back last year in November. I'm still looking out for a good spec Manual, as I have had Boxster S in PDK too but hanging out for a Manual. Nice to see footage of these rare one!
Northern hemisphere buyers have it good. I am in Australia and the cheapest 981S is currently AUD 105k with a GTS circa AUD 150k. 981 GT4’s are circa AUD 200k - complete madness, but I think the prices are reducing - just hard to sit and wait a little !
Thanks for the video. Giving me the motivation for finishing my Cayman floodcar. Unfortunately mine is a pdk. Did get 2 991 manuals with it too though. I love these cars
If you aren’t going to spend $100k+ on the GTS 4.0 this is probably the right car. The 981 GTS pricing is a bit silly when compared to the S. I think the S has to be best value even in this inflated market.
Totally agree. And honestly, 325 Hp is plenty. Especially given they are momentum cars almost like a Miata…just double the hp and a much much better noise.
I had a couple 911’s and now own a Jaguar F Type R. I’m going to add a Cayman S once the prices dip back down. I miss the nimbleness of the 6. I won’t sell my Jaguar. It’s beautiful and a beast-just not a Porsche:)
Can you give some examples of what the cayman s used to be priced at? I’m looking at getting one and want to know if I should wait longer. It’s a 2014 S with 37k miles at $54k with tax/fees included.
@@DanFMN around me in the SW they went up about 20% with the pandemic. You can almost use your own car as a guide. I drive an F Type R. It’s value shows over $65 I think now and it was mid $50’s pre pandemic.
718 GTS with PDK here. Love your car. I am 6'4" and the sales rep is 6'9" with no probs driving it, but I went with manual seats. Anyone reading this, please check that your tires can run in cold weather.
@@klutch6693 I make old man noises getting in and out of it! Getting your first leg under the steering wheel is tough at first. I have the standard two-way manual GTS seats and you can go about an hour before your butt starts hurting. My friend is 5'11" with a 40" inseam and she can just flop right in the driver's seat! Are considering getting a manual transmission? Test- drive to make sure you clear the steering wheel comfortably. Feel free to ask anymore questions! Porsche is a fun community
@@aveautomotive2441 I love it! The flat 4-cylinder engine note (sound) was created by Porsche long before the WRX hit the market. The gas mileage on my last road trip was 33mpg down and 34mpg back. 981 owners love to complain, but it is a better engine
Now that’s where I want to drive my 2014 Base. I lived in Germany for 4 years, owed three bmws there. But I can only imagine a Porsche on the Autobahn 🏎
For me it wasn’t, so I opted for an NB Miata. I may see if I can find a 986 or 987 Boxster at some point, but if it had the cash I’d go for the 981 S in a heartbeat.
hi I agree and confirm enjoying my Cayman 981 PDK as my daily (since 5 yrs) AND on the track (see my channel) A Cayman is like 2 cars in 1. Every trip is great fun. Rgs from Belgium
I am thinking of getting a 2014 Cayman, which has done 79K miles, but would I be able to use it as my daily driver? On average I drive like 13000 miles a year. Would this car be able to do well for next 4 - 5 yrs? I am getting this deal for $26,000
From what we’ve heard, both the 2.7 in the base and 3.4 in the S are pretty stout engines. They should definitely be capable of hitting 200k, it’s just a matter of how expensive maintenance will be over that mileage. I’d say especially if you’re buying a base 981, it should be fine. Porsche’s are generally quite durable and the 981 is up there for potential longevity. Just have some cash ready for any maintenance and repairs along the way. I’d certainly buy one and drive it that far every year if I had the money!
Waiting for price to go down further. Since your video prices have dropped 10-15k. They will fall further. Especially with the new 4.0 manual boxsters and caymans coming.
Yeah the bubble has burst. I don’t suspect they’ll go too much lower, but the bearded one wants to get a 987 boxster base 2.7 and those are low 20s now which is awesome. Also NEW cayman and boxster 4.0? I’ve heard rumors of the next Gen base cayman/boxster being EV and then keeping the GTS 4.0 and GT4 for one more Gen maybe.
@@TommyLGarage Maybe that replaced the Cayman, but a 911T is nothing to gawk at. I like a 911 as much as the next person, but the Cayman is more special to me. Porsche knows it could be a better car than the 911 otherwise they wouldn't nerf it. Plus I like to go against the norm. Dream for me is GT3 AND GT4.
What screens do you lose on the 3rd dial on the dash by having the after market stereo replacing the factory PCM? Obviously you still seem to have the car related ones.
I believe if you have sport chrono, that includes additional gauges like a g meter and some other goodies that you could loose going aftermarket. That and some phone/media functionally, but it’s nothing I find myself longing for…to me the trade off is worth it. Also worth noting, this car doesn’t have a multi-function steering wheel, so one that did may lose additional functionality by going aftermarket, but not this particular example.
@@aveautomotive2441 I was mainly concerned with things I’d read on the internet that seemed to suggest the screen just stayed black with no information. I would expect to lose navigation and phone etc, but obviously wouldn’t want to lose the electronic gauges trip computer screens.
Hey I got myself a 2016 boxster I'm interested in changing the stereo. which aftermarket stereo did you use ?did you change the speakers as well ?and can you tell me how much it cost you?
I actually bought the car with the head unit already installed. It looked meh in photos but in person I generally like it. Not quite as clean as OEM, but it could also be a lot worse.
Depends on what you’re looking for/what your preferences are as a driver! The M4 comp will be less engaging, it’s 500 lbs heavier, but they absolutely rip with 454 hp and it’s far more tunable. So the M4 is faster, more comfortable, and more usable. I’d also argue the M4 is far more suited to be a single car solution than the Cayman, but the cayman will (in our opinion) sound better, corner better, and communicate more to you through the wheel and chassis. The M4 is based on a 4-series (duh lol) so the chassis is not going to be as sharp as the Cayman given the Cayman was designed exclusively for the job it does…if that makes sense. Both have manual and DCT options, though we prefer the way Porsche’s manual feels to the more rubbery BMW (though some people adore how BMW shifters feel) and it’s hard to beat the PDK when it comes to dual-clutch options. Are you cross-shopping those?
Is the question, “what is his daily driver?”…if so: technically his 2019 Golf R, but he’s put 20k miles on the Cayman this year and only 6k on the R lol
Been 2 years with it now and just created the 30k mile mark. Went from 54k to 84k. Also selling the golf R this month which means I’ll be running winters on the cayman this year
How can you compare the cayman with a miata or a golf?! Totally different cars. Its like comparing a horse with a mule. Yes they both have 4 legs but its a different animal.
So I totally respect your perspective on this, but here is the method to our madness: We tailor our videos to average consumers. Sure, we are enthusiasts and surely some wealthy people have stumbled on our videos, but we typically envision our audience as regular folks like us. Most middle-class people aren’t crossshopping a Cayman with an Emira, MC20, C8 Corvette, or other mid-engine cars. They are mostly likely upgrading TO a Cayman. I’m a Miata owner, so that’s my baseline and honestly it’s almost any enthusiasts baseline. By comparing a Miata to a Cayman, people are able to understand what makes the Cayman a step beyond (from our perspective) and then (hopefully) have a better chance of deciding whether that step is worth it. As for the inclusion of the Golf R, Nick owns one so we often reference it. That car is 100% apples to oranges so we are agreed there. Fundamentally, we also don’t think any car is necessarily off limits for comparison with another. This is just our opinion obviously, but just because you have two mid-engine RWD cars, doesn’t mean one is a relevant comparison to the other because their core attributes are the same. For instance, I don’t think a Gallardo is a fair comparison with an MR2. I know that wasn’t your argument necessarily, but I think a Miata is actually a reasonable car to compare with a Cayman. I think a used 981 Cayman (typically around $20k or so more than an new ND Miata or GR86) is likely on some people’s lists right alongside a new Miata or GR86 even though there is a fairly large performance gap and they have different engine placements and powertrains etc. Totally respect if you disagree, but that’s our position. Hope you enjoyed the video otherwise!
I suppose when it comes to the most analog Cayman, yes-especially given the hydraulic steering rack. We just say 981 because it’s the last purely NA 6 cylinder lineup.
I suppose it’s faster! It’s definitely the best auto I’ve ever experienced. I prefer the stick just because it’s fun and I’m all about the engagement. That said, the PDK is definitely a good time. At least porsche makes a good auto and manual!
What makes you think that? The owner of this car has never wanted a 911…enjoys them as a car enthusiast but prefers the superior dynamics of the mid-engine Cayman/Boxster. The bearded guy in the video (the writer of this comment) has always wanted a 911 because I grew up with a fondness for it. Would love to have you elaborate more on this opinion of yours lol
You can’t make a truth claim about people’s convictions/opinions though lol. My friend actively wants any and all cayman’s over any and all 911’s. Would you consider him a liar? Like, I’m genuinely just curious how you know the mind of all Porsche Cayman/Boxster buyers lol
It’s just easy to disprove that (btw I enjoy the back and forth, no animosity on my end!). You may think that, but just because YOU give the 911 this elevated status doesn’t mean other people idolize it (this coming from a guy who adores the 911). My friend has never sent me a listing for a 911 he wants besides the GT3 or GT3RS. He wants something to track with mid-engine dynamics and the only 911 based cars he likes are the GT ones. He’s a Cayman guy through and through. I am one of the people you described. I would buy a Boxster because it’s all I can afford and I would secretly want a 911, but that is objectively not true of everyone. Saying it’s true doesn’t make it so-nor does being alive a long time. Actually you being older makes it more likely you’d not like the Cayman/Boxster-my generation grew up with them so we like them just as much. Irrespective of your opinion-we can agree that Porsche makes fantastic cars.
Great video! I have owned both cars, the 981S (3.4) and 981 Base (2.7). Having driven both the entry-level model being fitted with a 2.7-litre flat six with 271bhp and 214lb ft. Its fair to say it may be a little flatter below 4500rpm but these flat 6 cars rev out much higher and the car will sing to you, it’s by no means a poor relation to faster versions, still more than fast enough, and soul-stirring when you rev it out on a country road - which, really, is the whole point!
If you go for the 2.7, my advice is to look for a well optioned 981 (2.7) and you can't go wrong - PDK is amazing and faster gear changes than you will ever manage in a manual, but go manual if you want to feel more connected with the driver input. You can and will lose your license just as easily in a 981 2.7 (on UK roads) and I can also tell you that the 0-62 times are negligible compareing the 2.7 & 3.4 - when you are out together with an 981S owner, you will not be blown away by them leaving you in their tracks - naturally you will be if its a 981 GT4 (3.8), 718 GTS/GT4 (4.0) which all have crazy power. Get a 981 base with Sport Chrono and PDK and it will absolutely keep pace with a 981S without Chrono/PDK. Don't be fooled into thinking it has to be a 981S. That said, go for what your budget affords you, you will not be disappointed with any Cayman, of any generation.
And finally, I am a firm believer that when the Governments of the day decide to start pressuring us to go EV, the taxes and other disincentives will be hitting hard on all other models, the 981 base (2.7) could very well be the one to have. Kills me to say it, as a recent buyer of a Cayman 4.0 GTS - I am not as convinced as many that the larger engine variants will be as valuable as they are in todays market come the changes to EV becoming more widespread and enforced by governments.
Do you agree that 9A1 in 981 platform also sings better than the 4.0?
I agree 💯, a poor man’s Porsche is an oxymoron, no such thing🏎
A poor man's thinking, owning the BEST thinking man's PORSCHE!,.?waaat?! Cayman!! love it!
I bought a 2014 Base 4 yrs ago, Red Amaranth metallic, PDK. I have ordered PSE. Everything you said about this car is exactly on point. I paid 40k and it would sell today around 45k, but no way am I selling. I am driving this car like it is supposed to be driven🏎
How is the base? I’m very very curious how the 2.7L engine feels to drive. 40k seems like a steal given how lovely they are to drive!
@@aveautomotive2441 The base is alright, does what it’s designed to do, quick but not really fast. A great drive though because it’s a Porsche 🏎
Added performance headers and sport cars to my 981 Base today. Totally satisfied with sound and a few additional horses🏎
@@williamjackson5357 did you keep the stock exhaust? I just picked up a 2014 cayman base and am contemplating exhaust upgrade.
@@rurymj I did keep the stock exhaust for now. I had Soul headers and sport cats installed. I’m thinking this might have been the better move 🏎
Just bought a manual 981 Cayman S. Added a custom sports exhaust. What a car! Just brings a huge smile to my face every time I drive it. Pretty much the perfect sports car 👍
Nick is hoping to add an exhaust on his as well! I feel like a stock Cayman S with an exhaust is perfection
@@aveautomotive2441 yeah I’d definitely recommend it. I was a bit sceptical of the need for a sports exhaust given how good the induction noise is when you’re driving and tbh the standard exhaust already sounds good. But I’m so glad I went ahead with the sports exhaust, has genuinely transformed the driving experience. Find myself winding down the windows and revving it out as I go through tunnels like a hoon. What a noise! 😬🤟👍
Actually one other point of interest (maybe); I’m in Australia and the local Porsche dealers (and I checked with 3) could not order some of the parts needed to install a genuine PSE. So I ended up with a custom job. It’s a great job imho and I am really happy with it but interesting I couldn’t get the genuine Porsche sports exhaust fitted
@@paulelliott3056 same here I had ordered a Porsche sports exhaust from Brighton Porsche for my 981 Boxster s still no ETA I decided to import a an active soul sports exhaust system should be here in 6 weeks so looking forward to it
I ordered a PSE fro Suncoast in January’22, the factory could not build it bc they can’t get the parts. The Base exhaust still sounds good.
Sat in a 987.1 Boxster earlier this year and the owner was an indie racer back in the 1980s from Italy. He was able to attack some corners with insane amount of speed in the OEM Boxster 2.7L. Since that day I was amazed with Boxster and finally purchased a 987.2 Boxster 2.9L 2 months ago.
I would love a 987…they are only in the low to mid $20k range right now. Seems like a bargain to me!
I hope you’re enjoying your 987.2! Must be a joy every time you hit the road
I have a 987.1 Cayman. Tricked up a little to 365hp. Bilstein R9 s... Very quick. Bought used at Brumos in 2010 with 42,000 miles. Did the Hurley Haywood driver Ed. Awesome 👍 Now at 487,000 miles... THAT'S DAILY DRIVING! Engine is all original. Just change Oil and filter every 5-6k. Just had a new starter installed... Original starter... Ha... 😅 Best car ever. Still a kick every time I get in it. Headers via stock exhaust... It is really all you need. In Florida routine merge is at 90-100mph for safety as traffic moves steady at 85mph. Don't be afraid of mileage. Awesome cars! John Russell Dade City Florida USA.
I have an 06 Cayman S and love it. What's even better a friend of mine at work, his brother is a retired Porsche mechanic and does side work out of his pole barn.
How is the 987? I’ve always wanted to test one out. They seem like they have a special place in Cayman history as the first obviously, but also the only one with hydraulic steering.
The Porsche mechanic friend is clutch! (No pun intended lol)
@aveautomotive2441 Well, I can tell you this. I had it up to 165, and it stayed straight as an arrow. I am 53, and I had 1986 mustang gt, in high-school . The driving experience is second to none in my cayman. I have also had a 2006 vette. I'll take my car over both anyday.
It is the grin from ear to ear and the involuntary laughs that I utter every time I drive my 981 that stand out. It is huge fun!
It really is a little joy machine!
Same, several years into ownership and I still have the same stupid smile that I first had on the pre-purchase test drive
“This is the best decision I’ve ever made” - exact quote from me after the first spirited drive in my 2010 987.2 S manual
Oooo a 987.2 S manual…absolutely one of the best Cayman’s. The perfect road companion for a spirited drive!
Just a great vid! College football, a fall chill in the morning air, and a Cayman vid from AVE. A great Saturday.
Can’t wait until Nick gets an exhaust for it…then it’ll be an even more visceral experience!
As soon as i found out the 718 was rumored to be a turbo 4 i rushed to the dealer and was fortunate enough to get an order in for a '16 Cayman S (mine had to be one of the last 981's built). It was very difficult not to check all the option boxes but it was also refreshing to craft the car exactly how I wanted it.
Great cars and as time goes on they will be appreciated more and more.
We both have always wanted to spec a car we love exactly the way we want. I (the bearded presenter) will be in the market for a 986 or 987 Boxster in the next two years. I can’t wait to enjoy that flat-6 howl on the daily. I hope you get to keep yours for years to come!
I am 6'5" and I fit in to mine perfectly fine. I lowered the seat all the way down and I have room above my head, no issue.
A lot of people buy these then get rid of them after a few years. 3 or even 6 owners in 10 years. I looked at a nice one where I would be the 4th owner in 10 years. To me that suggests maybe it's best to stick with my top spec CX5 turbo instead, I can pretend I’m driving a sports car 😎
I just bought a near identical car to that one, a 2016 Cayman S in Guards Red/Black leather, 6-speed. I did pay a little more at just under $65k for a pretty clean 7k mile example. Mine arrived from out of state about 10 days after you posted the initial impressions video. My first impressions were pretty similar to that, lol!
Mine is pretty low on options, but that was my preference. I wanted to avoid things like the headlight washers, parking sensors and nav knot on top of the car and was able to do that. The only things I wanted but didn't get were the Carrera S wheels and the sports exhaust. I will add the wheels for sure at some point and consider the exhaust. It's definitely a keepsake type car for me, especially where cars are headed as you both touched on.
Of course, I really wanted the new GTS with the glorious 4.0-liter engine, but the supply issues coupled with dealer markups really made that cost prohibitive relative to what I felt comfortable spending. And the new GTS comes with headlight washers, parking sensors and the knot on top along with sports chrono which I didn't want. I thought I would be a little disappointed when I got the 981 version but that couldn't be further from the truth. It's been pretty amazing so far and I have come to appreciate the subtle styling differences that distinguish it from the 982 version.
That’s awesome! I feel like the spec you got was well worth the price given the market. We haven’t gotten a chance to drive a GTS 4.0 or a GT4, but I have a feeling the 981 Cayman S will end up being more of a thrill on the road as you can go through the gears with slightly less fear of going to jail lol. Are you planning to track yours at all? I think the stock exhaust is surprisingly good, but some aftermarket options really make it a more visceral experience…have to love the sound of a Porsche flat 6! I hope you get to enjoy yours for years to come.
@@aveautomotive2441 Thanks! I originally planned on getting the sports exhaust but after driving it some more, I think I might just keep the stock one. Some more volume at the push of a button would be nice though, as long as it sounded like the stock system when off. No track plans yet but you know how that goes!
I have a 2014 Cayman Base, bought 4 years ago with 27k on the engine. I was on the fence about adding a PSE or having performance headers and sport cats installed. According to my local indy, the headers will add horsepower for sure and the sound will change to amore aggressive one. Installing in 11 days, can’t wait 🏎
Why wouldn't you want sport chrono? Even on the 6MT not only do you get the cool center gauge but it also adds Rev matching, a sport+ setting and IIRC stiffer motor mounts.
@@wymotome I mainly meant on the 718 as I don't like how the clock looks. I do like what comes along with it and would have been fine with it on my 981. I think they did a better job integrating it on the 981.
My 987.1 base 5spd, with sport chrono,(yes, it sharpens the throttle response and changes the way the rev limiter kicks in), is a blast to drive on narrow, twisty back roads. Might change up to a 981 but the steering? I'll drive one to decide. Great video gents!
I was fortunate to get a 2022 Cayman GTS at msrp. And like you said that formula of rear wheel drive mid engine flat six manual transmission is going to be a unicorn. Best car I’ve ever driven dynamically and I’m never going to sell it.
You probably won’t even lose much money with the next Gen going EV…especially given you snagged a manual. Enjoy it! I’m jealous
@@aveautomotive2441. Thanks! I could have sold it the day I picked it up for a $20k profit. But I have no interest in flipping it.
Congrats, I've had a request in at the dealer for one. I'm coming up on waiting 8 months, not too concerned when I get it but am concerned they'll stop making them before my number comes up.
Good review, well balanced and thoughtful. I am fortunate to own some very good sheet metal and the 991 GTS (PASM/PTV/PSV/SC etc) is one of them. There is something magical about the 3.4L flat six with 340HP and 380Nm its very much right sized for most back roads and with PTV it's so quick to adjust through corners and with changes in grip level - genuine fantastic drivers car. You can wring it out without too much worry, but if you did the same in my 991.2 GT3 RS you wouldn't be popular 😀 with local LE. PS I'm agnostic with regard to manual or PDK, both are great and the PDK with SC in Sport Plus mode is a blast e.g. riotous launch control, louder and even more dynamic through the corners (active engine mounts). Theres a lot of engineering Porsche cars that people aren't aware for example the 981 chassis is one of the most rigid ever made ~ 40,000N per degree of flex - that is super car country.
Thank you for the kind words. We really appreciate that!
There really is something magical! It’s such an exceptional and joyful engine. The PDK is amazing too, so I totally get the agnosticism. How long have you had your 991.2 GT3? Sounds like you have an incredible lineup of cars.
I didn’t know that about the 981 chassis. That honestly makes it even more exciting. I’ll have to pass that along to Nick (the owner and non-bearded presenter)
@@aveautomotive2441 I've had the 991.2 GT3 RS since the end of 2019 (from new), from my perspective its the best RS Porsche have ever produced and still useable on public roads. The new 992 GT3 RS is a technical masterpiece in aero but in real world performance it hasn't moved the game on and is very harsh on public roads (50% higher spring rates over the very stiff 991.2 GT3 RS). The 981 GTS was also purchased as a new order from Porsche so I got it exactly the way I like e.g. Guards red, with GTS interior, the simple sports plus seats, Bose, guards red coloured dials and clock, Porsche torque vectoring, Porsche active suspension management, sports chrono, performance sports exhaust and PDK, plus with it being a GTS it has additional HP torque, a third radiator front splitter and rear diffuser. Its low on matt black Carrera wheels and just looks great. I really laughed when you and your friend made the on ramp and corner comments, the Cayman rips corners like theres no tomorrow. Very glad you both enjoyed the S, its a very fine car, it will stand the test of time and everyday you get to drive it is a great day. PS Your reviews come across as natural and straightforward - a lot of "reviewers" make the mistake of parroting press releases or towing a company line. As a long time Porsche owner I know the 911 is not the be all and end all even though it is very good. The NA 3.4L, 3.8L and 4L Cayman are every bit as good and indeed often more engaging than most standard 911s.
Now imagine if the car wasn't carrying over 700lbs of men in it!!!
I believe they'd call that a garage queen that weighs 200 pounds less than stock so it would be hard to imagine haha
Lol, you're right.... Those clowns need to go on a diet!
Really informative video. Interesting to see the prices you are paying in the US compared to the UK. My 2014 Cayman S seems to have all the possible options- sport, sport plus PSE PASM PDK and I suppose due the $/£ rate makes it quite a good buy as I paid substantially less than what you are stating. I've had a 993, again, a great car but they are getting too expensive and a worry to drive on the road in case of some accident reducing it's value. The driving experience of the Cayman is just so sublime, and a friend of mine who has had every kind of modern Porsche agrees that the performance beats many of the modern 911's -and as for for being a poor man's Porsche, don't even think about it -that is only an argument people who have never driven a Porsche offer. I'll be hanging onto mine for a while.
What does your friend/you think of the base 987 cayman? Nick owns the Cayman S in the review, but I’m (the bearded one) thinking of getting a 987 base if I can find one!
@@aveautomotive2441 my mate only drove the more modern Porsches which he leased to could chop and change-which he did!-that is why I valued his opinion-he had the Cayman 981 GTS , 911 Turbo, Boxster 981 GTS , the wife has the Cayenne. TBH he said the 981 Boxster GTS was his absolute favourite- he didn't like the 718 Cayman.
If you ask me regarding the 987 Cayman, great car, but I'd go for the Gen 2 model with the 2.7 engine .
I have a 2014 model Cayman S in agate gray. i think it's the perfect car, looks wise, performance wise, sound wise, handling wise. I test drove a 997 because it was in the same $ region and let's be honest everyone secretly wants to have a 911 - but the difference was day and night. the 997 felt like a heavy, old car.
I do not lust for a 911. Why do so many people think that?
@@BobC59 I can only assume, maybe because the 911 was first and has the legend status to it. since the cayman looks a bit like the 911 from the outer shape, it will always be compared. when something is constantly compared to something, many people will tend to buy the original for peace of minds sake. it's not rational, the 911 is more expensive, especially in maintenance at the dealer when you don't do everything yourself, assurance is higher, basic models handle worse, they're larger, heavier (newer models) and what not but still it's the most iconic car of all times so yeah me included, if i had more money i would not have taken the cayman, but a boxster -plus- a 911 coupe maybe an old G-model. If you feel excited when you see these old g models 964 and what not, you will somehow feel what i mean when i say everybody (who loves p-cars) wants to have a 911. it's an emotional thing that some people either have , or not. I have never heard of someone fantasizing about porsches maybe since their childhood with posters and model cars, and then end up buying a Cayenne.
@@xstingrayx Funny thing about that. I’ve never had much interest in Porsches throughout my 60 years. Drove a 911 once and didn’t think much of it - just a small, low, German luxury car that handled well. I had a Miata and an S2000 but due to my tall, aging body, decided to sell them and get something with more space-
Boxster topping the list. I ended up loving the near-exotic feel and performance of the 981 Cayman: Light, mid-engine, pretty darn fast (I got the S), outstanding cornering, etc…
I absolutely love my Cayman, but have no desire to ever own a 911. I will admit however that I might be a little happier with a 981 GTS or just an S with sport suspension. If I ever move from a 981 Cayman, it will probably be into a Lotus or a 12-15 year-old F430.
Just got a Cayman S w/22,000 miles. What a car!
Oh hell yeah! I hope you start racking up the miles…they are so much fun!
@@aveautomotive2441 AW YEAH - Working on it!!!
3:02 - I’ve only had my 2014 a couple months and that’s the perfect description of how it feels to me. (I just sold an NB Miata and AP1 S2000)
Oh sweet! I (the bearded one from the video) have a 2001 NB2 and I think a cayman or boxster is the only thing I’d give it up for!
@bobc59 How do you feel now about your Cayman vs your AP1 S2000? I am debating the two. Thanks.
@@kevinreilly7091 Different animals completely, so get both! (haha, but read on). Either is a fantastic car, and since you clearly have a love for being one with a light and nimble sports car, you will be happy either way - but in MANY different ways depending on what you choose. It’s all about which experience and attributes are most important to you.
just turned 64 and honestly wanted a bit more leg and shoulder room as my back and joints get achy (Im 6’1” 225, so always was a snug fit. Boxster/Cayman are small and light, but LOTS of space. Bottom line - and I know this probably won’t help: I am smitten with the Cayman, but I am hoping to find an NC Miata (most legroom of any Miata) is club form with retractable hardtop because I do miss that “basic roadster” experience. But to be clear, I will not replace the Cayman because it is as close to a Ferrari as you can get without the impossibly difficult and expensive serving. I want both, and the Miata is “cheap” to buy and own, will keep its value.
I had been looking at Boxsters to get best of both worlds, but it doesn’t quite work like that. An S2000 is an S2000. The Boxster & Cayman are solid, beautiful, GERMAN beauties with creature comforts and feel like an Audi sedan - only in a near-perfect body/chassis/powertrain layout. Anyway, I went all-in on performance and went with Cayman.
Good luck! Please let me know what you decide - or keep the dialogue going here. Obviously I love talking about my babies 😄
@kevinreilly7091 I own both a base 981 pdk and an AP1 S2000. Porsche cable gearboxes could only wish to feel as good as an S2000. Roof down the S2000 is unbeatable. The Cayman doesnt come close. But with the roof up. The S2000 is a buzzy uncomfortable mess. They are both very different cars. But you honestly cant go wrong with either. Unless your dailying the S2000 in bad traffic and often get bad weather. If thats the case. Get the Cayman
@@ForgetfulFoot I concur! The Cayman shifts fine, but there are no so close to perfect as the gearbox in that S2000.
Zero regrets getting the Cayman, despite costing double the what I got for the AP1. if I had the space, I probably would have kept the S2000. Then again, selling and making money on the Honda was part of my rationale for getting the Cayman. I probably lost every dime of “profit” from the S2000 the minute I paid for the Porsche, but Im in this for the passion of driving. Money is just the enabler. 1 mile from my house and onto the beautiful backroads in a great sorts car, and all worries disappear
I’m lucky to have a 2015 Cayman GTS, PDK. By far the best car I’ve ever owned, including four previous Porsches. I’m keeping this one and driving the snot out of it at every opportunity.
ADDED INFO: 2014 Cayman S cost $56,300 on Bring A Trailer (auction site), meaning with fee I paid about $59,000. May have been a bit high for March 2023, but has the right options,
Still not a bad deal for one with all the option you really wanted! The PPF is a big win too.
I bet the seats look awesome! Sounds like a great interior color. What is the exterior color?
@@aveautomotive2441 Basalt Black (metallic black). Has Boxster S wheels in a deep gray/charcoal (still cannot find Porsche name for it), so the car looks very stealthy in all “almost black”. (Edit: The original buyer optioned the car, so I am pretty sure he picked those Boxster S wheels to match the paint - and did a great job!). Yes, the interior looks fantastic. Its a love or hate thing. but I those “new baseball glove”-colored panels give an exotic look and breaks up the otherwise all-black (charcoal really) interior.
Nice video Gents, I sold my 981 S PDK back last year in November. I'm still looking out for a good spec Manual, as I have had Boxster S in PDK too but hanging out for a Manual. Nice to see footage of these rare one!
Northern hemisphere buyers have it good. I am in Australia and the cheapest 981S is currently AUD 105k with a GTS circa AUD 150k. 981 GT4’s are circa AUD 200k - complete madness, but I think the prices are reducing - just hard to sit and wait a little !
I’m in the same boat, Not many to choose from in Adelaide
Thanks for the video. Giving me the motivation for finishing my Cayman floodcar. Unfortunately mine is a pdk. Did get 2 991 manuals with it too though. I love these cars
If you aren’t going to spend $100k+ on the GTS 4.0 this is probably the right car. The 981 GTS pricing is a bit silly when compared to the S. I think the S has to be best value even in this inflated market.
Totally agree. And honestly, 325 Hp is plenty. Especially given they are momentum cars almost like a Miata…just double the hp and a much much better noise.
That sounds good even without PSE
I had a couple 911’s and now own a Jaguar F Type R. I’m going to add a Cayman S once the prices dip back down. I miss the nimbleness of the 6. I won’t sell my Jaguar. It’s beautiful and a beast-just not a Porsche:)
Oooo an F Type! They are gorgeous and they sound mean as heck!
Can you give some examples of what the cayman s used to be priced at? I’m looking at getting one and want to know if I should wait longer. It’s a 2014 S with 37k miles at $54k with tax/fees included.
They were in the 40k range but honestly 54k with that mileage is a great deal! The S is a 325 Hp monster
@@aveautomotive2441 Hmm if I could get one for $10k less a year from now I think it would be worth the wait. Thanks for the input!
@@DanFMN around me in the SW they went up about 20% with the pandemic. You can almost use your own car as a guide. I drive an F Type R. It’s value shows over $65 I think now and it was mid $50’s pre pandemic.
718 GTS with PDK here. Love your car. I am 6'4" and the sales rep is 6'9" with no probs driving it, but I went with manual seats. Anyone reading this, please check that your tires can run in cold weather.
How do you like the 2.5L in your 718? I’ve heard it’s spectacular
hi, do you have difficulties getting in and out of it? also is a comfortable daily driver for someone that is 6'4?
@@klutch6693 I make old man noises getting in and out of it! Getting your first leg under the steering wheel is tough at first. I have the standard two-way manual GTS seats and you can go about an hour before your butt starts hurting. My friend is 5'11" with a 40" inseam and she can just flop right in the driver's seat! Are considering getting a manual transmission? Test- drive to make sure you clear the steering wheel comfortably. Feel free to ask anymore questions! Porsche is a fun community
@@aveautomotive2441 I love it! The flat 4-cylinder engine note (sound) was created by Porsche long before the WRX hit the market. The gas mileage on my last road trip was 33mpg down and 34mpg back. 981 owners love to complain, but it is a better engine
@@JM-wu8bh thank you for the detailed answer, I am contemplating getting a base 981 with automatic transmission
Drove one on the autobahn ........ wow !
Now that’s where I want to drive my 2014 Base. I lived in Germany for 4 years, owed three bmws there. But I can only imagine a Porsche on the Autobahn 🏎
I don't even want one with your review, I don't wanna be stupid, I want to be skilled, etc.
Do you like the car? We highly recommend not being stupid lol. We are both working with instructors for track driving and autocross etc.
The question is, is it worth pouring a years worth of salary to buy this 2014?
For me it wasn’t, so I opted for an NB Miata. I may see if I can find a 986 or 987 Boxster at some point, but if it had the cash I’d go for the 981 S in a heartbeat.
hi
I agree and confirm enjoying my Cayman 981 PDK as my daily (since 5 yrs) AND on the track (see my channel)
A Cayman is like 2 cars in 1.
Every trip is great fun.
Rgs from Belgium
We will definitely check it out! How often do you track it?
@@aveautomotive2441
10 times a year (but each time only for 1 hour)
That’s awesome! And it’s been holding up nicely to that?
@@aveautomotive2441
no issues, just great fun
I am thinking of getting a 2014 Cayman, which has done 79K miles, but would I be able to use it as my daily driver? On average I drive like 13000 miles a year. Would this car be able to do well for next 4 - 5 yrs? I am getting this deal for $26,000
From what we’ve heard, both the 2.7 in the base and 3.4 in the S are pretty stout engines. They should definitely be capable of hitting 200k, it’s just a matter of how expensive maintenance will be over that mileage. I’d say especially if you’re buying a base 981, it should be fine. Porsche’s are generally quite durable and the 981 is up there for potential longevity. Just have some cash ready for any maintenance and repairs along the way. I’d certainly buy one and drive it that far every year if I had the money!
keep up the good work.
I have 2014 boxster s and I'm not selling that one
I have a 2014 Cayman and mine is not for sale either 🏎
Waiting for price to go down further. Since your video prices have dropped 10-15k. They will fall further. Especially with the new 4.0 manual boxsters and caymans coming.
Yeah the bubble has burst. I don’t suspect they’ll go too much lower, but the bearded one wants to get a 987 boxster base 2.7 and those are low 20s now which is awesome.
Also NEW cayman and boxster 4.0? I’ve heard rumors of the next Gen base cayman/boxster being EV and then keeping the GTS 4.0 and GT4 for one more Gen maybe.
I miss my 981S
What do you have now?
@@aveautomotive2441 Kia Sorento with the SPORT package
@@TommyLGarage Maybe that replaced the Cayman, but a 911T is nothing to gawk at. I like a 911 as much as the next person, but the Cayman is more special to me. Porsche knows it could be a better car than the 911 otherwise they wouldn't nerf it. Plus I like to go against the norm. Dream for me is GT3 AND GT4.
watched your 981 DYI videos. Would you still get rid of your 981 for the 911T if you could do it over again?
@@apolloandratti7922 yes I would have. 991T is a great daily.
What screens do you lose on the 3rd dial on the dash by having the after market stereo replacing the factory PCM? Obviously you still seem to have the car related ones.
I believe if you have sport chrono, that includes additional gauges like a g meter and some other goodies that you could loose going aftermarket. That and some phone/media functionally, but it’s nothing I find myself longing for…to me the trade off is worth it.
Also worth noting, this car doesn’t have a multi-function steering wheel, so one that did may lose additional functionality by going aftermarket, but not this particular example.
@@aveautomotive2441 I was mainly concerned with things I’d read on the internet that seemed to suggest the screen just stayed black with no information. I would expect to lose navigation and phone etc, but obviously wouldn’t want to lose the electronic gauges trip computer screens.
Hey I got myself a 2016 boxster I'm interested in changing the stereo. which aftermarket stereo did you use ?did you change the speakers as well ?and can you tell me how much it cost you?
I actually bought the car with the head unit already installed. It looked meh in photos but in person I generally like it. Not quite as clean as OEM, but it could also be a lot worse.
2014 Caymen S or 2018 M4 Competition?
Depends on what you’re looking for/what your preferences are as a driver! The M4 comp will be less engaging, it’s 500 lbs heavier, but they absolutely rip with 454 hp and it’s far more tunable. So the M4 is faster, more comfortable, and more usable. I’d also argue the M4 is far more suited to be a single car solution than the Cayman, but the cayman will (in our opinion) sound better, corner better, and communicate more to you through the wheel and chassis. The M4 is based on a 4-series (duh lol) so the chassis is not going to be as sharp as the Cayman given the Cayman was designed exclusively for the job it does…if that makes sense.
Both have manual and DCT options, though we prefer the way Porsche’s manual feels to the more rubbery BMW (though some people adore how BMW shifters feel) and it’s hard to beat the PDK when it comes to dual-clutch options. Are you cross-shopping those?
It is a daily driver when you see empty Gatorade bottles on the front seat mat you know you’re just driving it
Is the question, “what is his daily driver?”…if so: technically his 2019 Golf R, but he’s put 20k miles on the Cayman this year and only 6k on the R lol
Been 2 years with it now and just created the 30k mile mark. Went from 54k to 84k. Also selling the golf R this month which means I’ll be running winters on the cayman this year
Awesome car
How can you compare the cayman with a miata or a golf?! Totally different cars. Its like comparing a horse with a mule. Yes they both have 4 legs but its a different animal.
So I totally respect your perspective on this, but here is the method to our madness:
We tailor our videos to average consumers. Sure, we are enthusiasts and surely some wealthy people have stumbled on our videos, but we typically envision our audience as regular folks like us. Most middle-class people aren’t crossshopping a Cayman with an Emira, MC20, C8 Corvette, or other mid-engine cars. They are mostly likely upgrading TO a Cayman. I’m a Miata owner, so that’s my baseline and honestly it’s almost any enthusiasts baseline. By comparing a Miata to a Cayman, people are able to understand what makes the Cayman a step beyond (from our perspective) and then (hopefully) have a better chance of deciding whether that step is worth it.
As for the inclusion of the Golf R, Nick owns one so we often reference it. That car is 100% apples to oranges so we are agreed there.
Fundamentally, we also don’t think any car is necessarily off limits for comparison with another. This is just our opinion obviously, but just because you have two mid-engine RWD cars, doesn’t mean one is a relevant comparison to the other because their core attributes are the same. For instance, I don’t think a Gallardo is a fair comparison with an MR2. I know that wasn’t your argument necessarily, but I think a Miata is actually a reasonable car to compare with a Cayman. I think a used 981 Cayman (typically around $20k or so more than an new ND Miata or GR86) is likely on some people’s lists right alongside a new Miata or GR86 even though there is a fairly large performance gap and they have different engine placements and powertrains etc. Totally respect if you disagree, but that’s our position. Hope you enjoyed the video otherwise!
last of its kind is the 987.2
I suppose when it comes to the most analog Cayman, yes-especially given the hydraulic steering rack. We just say 981 because it’s the last purely NA 6 cylinder lineup.
Hi, how tall is nick?
6’1!
PDK > Manual
I suppose it’s faster! It’s definitely the best auto I’ve ever experienced. I prefer the stick just because it’s fun and I’m all about the engagement. That said, the PDK is definitely a good time. At least porsche makes a good auto and manual!
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People that bought Caymans always wanted a 911.... Don't buy it.
What makes you think that? The owner of this car has never wanted a 911…enjoys them as a car enthusiast but prefers the superior dynamics of the mid-engine Cayman/Boxster. The bearded guy in the video (the writer of this comment) has always wanted a 911 because I grew up with a fondness for it. Would love to have you elaborate more on this opinion of yours lol
@@aveautomotive2441 Because it's true...
You can’t make a truth claim about people’s convictions/opinions though lol. My friend actively wants any and all cayman’s over any and all 911’s. Would you consider him a liar? Like, I’m genuinely just curious how you know the mind of all Porsche Cayman/Boxster buyers lol
@@aveautomotive2441 Been driving stick 911's longer than you've been alive... Trust me, they all want one.
It’s just easy to disprove that (btw I enjoy the back and forth, no animosity on my end!). You may think that, but just because YOU give the 911 this elevated status doesn’t mean other people idolize it (this coming from a guy who adores the 911).
My friend has never sent me a listing for a 911 he wants besides the GT3 or GT3RS. He wants something to track with mid-engine dynamics and the only 911 based cars he likes are the GT ones. He’s a Cayman guy through and through.
I am one of the people you described. I would buy a Boxster because it’s all I can afford and I would secretly want a 911, but that is objectively not true of everyone. Saying it’s true doesn’t make it so-nor does being alive a long time. Actually you being older makes it more likely you’d not like the Cayman/Boxster-my generation grew up with them so we like them just as much.
Irrespective of your opinion-we can agree that Porsche makes fantastic cars.
That car sounds horrible.
Not a flat-6 fan eh?
Owner is obnoxious
Well it sucks that you felt you had to express that in writing, but we’re just doing our best to make reviews we’re proud of man 🤷♂️