I have an alfa 4c, honestly, I love it. I would chose no other car at the same price point (maybe even a bit higher). However I completely understand what Chris means. The Cayman is one of the best cars to throw around the track and live with it in the city. The alfa cant keep up with the numbers. But this alfa is a work of art. The manual steering, quick acceleration, small size, exhaust..... I wouldn't trade it in for any other car. Only someone who relishes it's pros will understand. :)
+19gundy You lucky son of a gun! I want one so bad. What color is yours? I want mine in white, with carbon fiber mirrors, spoiler and gunmetal phonedials - DREAM CAR!
I'm looking to buy a new car within 6 months and I'm looking at the Porsche 911, Cayman S, and Alfa 4C. It would be my only car, but I live in chicago so I don't really need it for any reason but to have fun. I'm really glad to hear you say you love it. I'm worried about maintenance and usability though. Do you ever regret not getting a more 'practical' car?
Jason Holtkamp The 911 is in a different class. Best GT car in the world. The other two are sports cars. I've driven both. The Cayman is fast and going around corners it can do things that will scare your passengers. The 4C has a sense of occasion. It looks fantastic. The naked carbon on the interior is so cool, you'll find yourself pausing at the door sill to stare at it. The exhaust sounds better in person. It's very quick. AR have fixed the darty steering. You will fall in love at first sight, or your brain will protect you and you will end up with the Porsche.
Update: I ended up going with the 4C. you were right: I fell in love at first sight. I ordered one in Rosso Competizione with a carbon fiber roof. Should be here in October... I can't wait :)
+Lynkk I can afford one of the two,if i could afford both i'd opt for 997 gt3rs. Personally I wouldn't purchase a Cayman unless it was a Gt4.I'll wait for the 781 Gen Cayman with turbo 4 and see how fast it is. Best deal of the two would be a base 4C which can be had right at 50k.
Hey Guys, ok, I've already decided to buy a 4C - in fact, I'm owning one since May this year and using it for more or less each day. Porsche surely builds perfect cars, great handling, you can equip it with so many options, it can be driven by more or less everybody. And that's already one of the differences for me - I like to have a special car, which isn't owned by 5000 other people. I also do not care about times on the race track - I'm going up and down pass by pass. And it's fun! However, I agree that the steering is extremely sensitive - that's something which I much improved by adjusting the toe-in and out. Additionally, Alfa offered an upgrade for the TCT which makes the load changes much more smooth - but on the other hand, a little bit of the raw character is gone with that. However, it always - as usual - just depends what you're looking for. A car, which is perfect for each situation and where you don't require emotions? Then, the Porsche is a good choice. Want something irrational? Then - go for the Alfa. And as usual - There is no accounting for taste :)
Ralf Metz ~Take a look to performance kit for the Alfa 4C...300 HP...it will be great...www.novitec-sportiva.com/en/News/Novitec-Tuning-Preview-For-Alfa-Romeo-4C
I like this summary. Its much like whisky making from the perspective of Scottish vs Japanese. Japanese engineer their whisky to have a particular taste by design, while the Svottisj follow a traditional time honoured process and what comes out comes out basically. Both make some incredibly good whisky despite taking totally different approaches.
If i where a machine i probably get a Cayman, but because i have a heart i would without a doubt take the Alfa, just look at it, how can you ignore it? Its not just a machine, it will be your best friend, you will get mad with it some times but you will love him even more after that. Cuore Sportivo sempre.
There are cars that tick boxes and then there are cars that stir the soul. The Cayman may produce better numbers but it just can’t compete with the feeling you get driving a 4C on mountain bends. I’ve seen little children literally crowd a 4C parked by the side of the road. They know nothing about cars but just by looking at it they know it’s something special. Meanwhile the Cayman sits quietly hoping someone will notice it.
In my country a Porsche cayman S costs 87.921€, while an Alfa Romeo 4C costs exactly 60.000€.The cayman goes from 0-100m/H in 5,1 s while the Alfa 4C goes in 4,5 s.The Cayman S has a much greater top speed though...The point is,he should have compared the basic Cayman(265 hp) not the S(320hp) with the Alfa 4C,afterall the Cayman S is "only" 27.921€ more expensive
dont know where you got your stats from but they are wrong, it's zero to sixty time is a second faster than what you claim, either can't you even compare these two, the Porsche is on a whole other lvl than this crappy 4c.
@@neutronalchemist3241 even with a 15000 dollar tune the 4c will never beat a cayman s. Porsche does crazy things with very little we all know that. I doubt a mid-engined porsche would lose to a 4c. It corners better, acceleration is better, it sounds better, it's just better end of story.
@@swansmeister Chiptuning BS Racing 500€; torsen limited slip differential Prometeo 1.000€; suspensions NTP Bilstein B16/Eibach 3.500€; wheel angles tuning 400€; Wheels OZ HLT 8Jx17” front and 9Jx18” rear 2.000€; Pirelli PZero Trofeo 205/45 R17 245/40 R18 1.250€, Sparco S line seat (not really needed) 1.600€; total 12.750€. A standard Cayman can't be put on the same track without looking ridicolous.
Firstly, I still don't understand why the 4C needs to be compared to the Cayman. If the 4C is more similar to an Elise, then why not drag that one out of the garage? Secondly, Porsche has been making sports cars for more than 70 years, and nothing else. So the fact that it has one of the best allround sports cars of the moment is hardly surprising. According to some it's also one of the most reliable. Jolly great! What I read in all of that is predictability. It looks the way you expect (in my opinion it's as unattractive as any other Porsche), it drives/handles the way you expect, it sounds the way you expect... Thirdly, what makes Alfas likeable to me, is the fact that they have been all over the car spectrum in their 105 years of existance. They may not produce the absolute best cars in their class, but they know how to excite (both driver and onlooker). Owning one may drive you up the wall from time to time, but the joy they bring is priceless and so very worth it. Lastly, I wish everyone a very happy 2015, and hope we all get to drive the cars we like! :)
I remember back when they were first compared, I would have taken the Alfa over the Porsche, but with time passing, in retrospect, I would have to choose the Alfa over the Porsche.
Chris' analyses are spot on. He drives with a great deal of sensitivity and really gets suspensions -- front and rear. He can also drive his behind off. To this day, I haven't seen anyone drift with the precision he shows. He does it with speed, and places the rear wheel within a mm of the edges. Nor have I seen anyone drive to a literal edge of a car's performance while maintaing safety. The best around. The best around.
Comical that he thinks comparing the Cayman S to the 4C means anything. The Cayman S starts at $65K the 4C at $53K. Should be comparing a base cayman which starts at $54K. The base cayman has 275HP and 214 Torque.
I own a 4C spider. It gets attention and is a very raw vehicle. You feel everything. The road, the brakes, and the steering are very sensitive. To me, it feels like a very nice-looking go-cart, and I love it.
Just went back and looked at this after buying a 2020 4c spider. It’s Angelina Jolie to the Cayman as Jennifer Anniston, or pick your pair. The 4c is essentially and thankfully unchanged as production winds down. Rear suspension fix is changing rear rubber bushes to solid joints. Solid aftermarket to make these cars wild if that’s your thing. Don’t know who will make a car like this again between regulation and small market, at least at a price that they can be bought new (for just a couple months) or used (prices stabilizing around $45-$50. Review still holds, the buyer for this is looking for something specific that is not a Cayman or Corvette, or a used 911.
PDK vs Alfa's flappy padel is probably the best way to compare the 2 anyway. I love both. It would be interesting to re-do this comparison with the new 4 cylinder turbo engined Cayman 718.
I had an Alfa Giulietta with the 4C engine in. I now have a Cayman with the 2.9. I daily the Cayman but get to a few track days a year in it. It's brilliant.
It isn't the same engine... aluminum block and head and quite a bit more. I have owned a 2015 4C LE since new and it is still my favorite car I have ever owned. Minor tweaks like uniballs instead of rubber bushings in the rear and better tires than the Pirelli P Zeros that come on the car make a huge difference. As far as looks..... 4C has it.... other cars just dream of looking so awesome ;-) By the way it has been an amazingly reliable car to own.... and compared to Pcar prices cheaper to maintain too.
I would love to see the Alfa compared to a Lotus. I feel that for the price, you should get a bit more than a turbo 4cyl. A 6 spd manual would also make it much more appealing, and save some weight and money that could be used to spruce up the interior.
@@seivaDsugnA because it's an iconic and striking piece of design. And it's not iconic in the sense of masking blandness and laziness like what Porsche does
First of all, congratulations on the new channel! We would love to see how the 4C stacks up to the Elise S, given that the 4C is trying so hard to be like an Elise. Any chance of doing such a comparison? Cheers
It is not about quality, it is more about perceived quality. Something similar to religion, it is not which one seems most logical, but which one looks better to you personally.
The Porsche is the better car in pretty much every objective way, and I'm 90% sure I'd go with the Alfa. Had they offered a manual transmission, you can make that 100%
These cars do nothing to change the stereotypes. German - solid, well built, efficient, fast but a little dull. Italian - great looking, good performance, exciting but technically not as good a car. For me the Porsche looks a bit boring. The Alfa is gets my vote. Now I just need to find some money...
+winchuni22 true, and true,.... however, I have owned 2 boxsters and they have given me zero grief and 100% fun, reliable and fun is hard to find. You can thrash them on the track, then drive home in them without worry. Can't beat that
Alfred Yuen You can't, that's true. I have looked at a Boxter as a nineties model is not actually that expensive - servicing and parts are the problem. But then again, yours you say has done well. What year is your?
I’ll be looking to buy either or in the coming months. Coming from a cammed C5 Corvette I wonder how the lack of HP the Alfa makes will be redeem by the low weight. I do love the sound and ergonomics of the Cayman though
It is seriously quick....it will dust a C5 vette....not as fast as the latest Vettes but not far off. A tune and it is even quicker. Lots of after-market support. Drive one first on a twisty road in the mountains and you will fall in love. But it is NOT a cushmobile..... it is noisy, manual steering, and will require you to actually drive it instead of just being a passenger.... I love that in a car.
I'd take the Cayman with a manual. How the Alpha Romeo 4C could not have power steering, but then put an automatic makes no sense. The Cayman is built well, fun to drive, handles superbly and is all around a better car. Except maybe if you prefer the 4C's styling. Otherwise I don't see why wouldn't go for the Cayman
Thing is that these extras make the Cayman about half a ton heavier. This is why you cannot expect Bentley Arnage comfort in a Lotus Elise either. Today's semi-auto gearboxes are also quicker than manuals.
+Ahrle Bengtsdotter and yet they're heavier than manuals, they aren't as engaging as manuals, and they're made for two kinds of people: Track Day Bros and rich morons who cannot drive stick.
+Michael Tarantino the steering is already heavy as hell if you but this with a manual it would make it almost undriveable the alpha is something you need two hands to drive
Remember, every review he’s ever written idolises German machinery, especially Porches and BMWs...made his mind up at 12 and is never going to change 😟
Chris, so good to have you back in a place where your supporters can once again enjoy you videos without the 'Drive ±' utter bollocks. Just continue to do things your way, we dig it your style more than pretty much every motor journo there is on camera.
I agree the alpha is like a hot Italian petite brunette who steals your heart, unfortunately she will also steal your wallet too. Whereas the German blonde may not be a stunner but will be reliable and be there when you need her till the end. Pays your money and takes your choice. Damn I am starting to sound like Mr Clarkson!....no offence meant.
Modern Alfa Romeos are absolutely reliable nowadays. I have had 7 Alfas so far. Of course the Alfas from the 80s were rust buckets and not the best but after Fiat took over they have been the same as any other car. I have had 2 post Fiat Alfas so far and they have been absolutely perfect with no problems at all.
A completely honest and reliable comparison. Somewhere around 3 minutes in Chris says the Cayman is the best sports car on the planet. Well, I'm done watching any more Cayman/Boxster versus videos then aren't I. This is what we have come to expect from you. Thank you ! Another brilliant review.
Despite IMS fears, I "chose" a pre-electric steering Cayman S. Great car! LOVE IT! (I'm an Alfa fan as well. Had 3 Alfa's. YOu dont have to pick a side ;) )
방인성 This video was in November 2014 before a lot of people realized how bad a guy Mayweather is. In Harris' defense I think he just didn't know. It was all about Floyd as a boxer.
Once again it comes down to what your heart would choose versus what your brain would... People say we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover but let's be honest... We all do.
In my modest opinion these 2 cars belong to different world. Cayman S is a quite luxury car that you can use to enjoy the speed but also to spend a nice week end somewhere . Alfa 4C is more in Lotus field...it is a special toy , quite spartan inside, amazing and different outside, fast, thrilling...but not a daily car...
Too bad we don't have an Alfa 3.2 V6 with a dry sump in the 4C. Maybe some Penske or Ohlins dampers. The rear suspension needs better shocks. The Porsche uses struts all around. Its a matter of set up and damper quality. The front tram lining can be partly mitigated by a little more toe in and tyres larger side walls. Lightweight cars should not have super low section tires, it's not a good idea. My relevant cars have been 3 X-1/9's ( 2 track cars) S2K and i currently drive a Locost 7
I do not understand this mania of comparing Alfa 4c and Porsche Cayman They are 2 cars completely different Not to mention that a Cayman costs a lot more (Do not look at the official price, look at the final price of the dealer !!!) There is only one car with which the Alfa 4c can be compared and it is the Lotus Elise Have you ever thought of comparing Lotus Elise and Porsche Cayman? I think not !
Chris please please can you do a review on Audi RS7 VS Porsche Panamera turbo S, as one costs more £45,000 more than the other, this would be much appreciated.
So I'm trying to decide what to take away from this. If you live on shitty back roads or plan on using that car specifically for track days go for the Porsche? I like the Cayman but I do have to admit what sells me on the 4c is the over all experience (Appearance, sound, setup, etc)
The thing with cars like like these is that the decision has already been made. Unless, of course, you hear some godawful news about the one you're already leaning on. It sounds like you're getting the 4C
here's the thing: when you buy a car like this, are you buying it for anything other than emotional reasons? I mean, if you're being rational and sensible you buy a Kia Ceed surely? So, for me, right out the gate, the car gives me goosebumps seeing it on the drive every morning..what's the point? And for some reason..Porsche just...doesn't do that. It does so many things so well, but apart from the Porsche 917 - which is simply one of the prettiest cars ever made - Porsche just don't...move me the way an Alfa or a Maserati or or Ferrari,Lamborghini or an Aston would.
six years later and the Alfa is now worth 40k as a baseline, very little depreciation now. In the future I can see it is as an appreciating car. Can't say the same for the Porsche.
what he doesn't point out is that, being a lot lighter, the 4C is faster in the straight line and especially in the corners. No question about that, just laws of physics. The question being : is it the most important aspect in a car you buy to drive mostly on the road and will never race with?
I was in love with the 4C, and when the time came for it, I was planning to test drive one. However, now the styling (while still gorgeous) has worn off on me and I no longer like how wide it is. I'd most likely go the Porsche.
I don´t think there is a sense ... It is just about having top off or on and also, lack a very little bit of stiffness to it but add more "freedom" feel and sound. End
I dont think is so hard to correct the minor faults on the Alfa. Change the steering will and fix the suspension and there you go! Its an epic car!! I think alfa should address these issues on a 2017 version. It will not be so costly.
Here's the thing. First of all, those of us who don't live in the U.K. aren't taking our sports cars out for dives in the rain. You have to or you'd never go anywhere. My '13 Viper GTS stays in the garage, and the Subie WRX STi comes out in foul weather. Or if it's questionable I pull out the S2000. We also don't generally have shit roads. They tend to be pretty good. The term "British roads" says it all. "British conditions". So lets think about this in terms for the rest of us. Would I rather be in the Caymen or the 4C? That's easy. The Alpha is "special" and "different" and beautiful. It's kinda like the difference between my Viper and a Corvette. I don't want to see another of my car on the road, and I won't in the Viper, and I won't in the 4C. It'd take the 4C in a heartbeat. As you said, "It isn't another Porsche".
Porsche, however amazing, is still german. It is sensible and probably perfect. The Alfa is, well an Alfa! Italians live in the now! They value food, beautiful women, great wine. Its all about the emotions! I had a 147 . broke my heart many times, yet the love of my life. So emotional, so gorgeous.
I think the Cayman is objectively the better car, but I already have a good car to use daily. For those times I want to get out and drive something special up a canyon or a mountain road, I think I’d want it to be an event. That, and I like the looks of the 4C much more than the Cayman, especially in person. Alfa for me.
id rather wake up and look at the 4c than the Cayman and honestly if I were to buy the car the 4c is like 10k cheaper I would get some smaller but wider wheels and a new infotainment system. I test drove a 4c and it does follow the groves in the road but after like 10-15 minutes you get used of it the power is amazing and the brakes are strong to make it a little more manageable I think some smaller wheels wound do nice
Why not drive the LAUNCH edition which has the better suspension, better rear end, better brakes and staggered wheels? This is clearly the BASE version both inside and out. You are comparing a $89,000 Cayman S to a $55k car here.
Porsche and Alfa Romeo are the Apple of cars. They tell people yes their products are less, but it is magical and enhanced with pixie’s dust and unicorn’s piss, and then proceed to put a huge price tag on it. No offense, I don’t hate these companies nor do I love them, but lets be honest people, less is less.
Do you say "Ferrar" or "Ferrari"? "Alf" or "Alfa"? Same thing. "Porsch" is incorrect. You can choose to be wrong, but there is only one way to pronounce the word Porsche.
I almost expect more from the Alfa for the price in respect to handling and hardware. Needless to say it is gorgeous but 9 times out of 10 I'd take the Cayman S!
I test drove both of them back to back on the same day. I went with the Alfa. I don't regret it even a little, I am in love
I have an alfa 4c, honestly, I love it. I would chose no other car at the same price point (maybe even a bit higher). However I completely understand what Chris means. The Cayman is one of the best cars to throw around the track and live with it in the city. The alfa cant keep up with the numbers. But this alfa is a work of art. The manual steering, quick acceleration, small size, exhaust..... I wouldn't trade it in for any other car. Only someone who relishes it's pros will understand. :)
+19gundy You lucky son of a gun! I want one so bad. What color is yours? I want mine in white, with carbon fiber mirrors, spoiler and gunmetal phonedials - DREAM CAR!
I'm looking to buy a new car within 6 months and I'm looking at the Porsche 911, Cayman S, and Alfa 4C. It would be my only car, but I live in chicago so I don't really need it for any reason but to have fun. I'm really glad to hear you say you love it. I'm worried about maintenance and usability though. Do you ever regret not getting a more 'practical' car?
Have a S2 Lotus Exige SC, thinking about getting a 4c.
Jason Holtkamp The 911 is in a different class. Best GT car in the world. The other two are sports cars. I've driven both. The Cayman is fast and going around corners it can do things that will scare your passengers. The 4C has a sense of occasion. It looks fantastic. The naked carbon on the interior is so cool, you'll find yourself pausing at the door sill to stare at it. The exhaust sounds better in person. It's very quick. AR have fixed the darty steering. You will fall in love at first sight, or your brain will protect you and you will end up with the Porsche.
Update: I ended up going with the 4C. you were right: I fell in love at first sight. I ordered one in Rosso Competizione with a carbon fiber roof. Should be here in October... I can't wait :)
In Short:
From Monday to Friday: the Cayman S
Saturday and Sunday: the 4C
So on the weekends you like to hoon around in a Citroën hatchback - wouldn't be my choice ;-)
Joshua Müller The Citroën is the C4,not 4C ;)
Yeah my comment looks kinda stupid now after Lynkk fixed his little mistake, at first he said C4 ;-)
+Lynkk I can afford one of the two,if i could afford both i'd opt for 997 gt3rs. Personally I wouldn't purchase a Cayman unless it was a Gt4.I'll wait for the 781 Gen Cayman with turbo 4 and see how fast it is. Best deal of the two would be a base 4C which can be had right at 50k.
Lynkk agreed 100%
Hey Guys,
ok, I've already decided to buy a 4C - in fact, I'm owning one since May this year and using it for more or less each day.
Porsche surely builds perfect cars, great handling, you can equip it with so many options, it can be driven by more or less everybody.
And that's already one of the differences for me - I like to have a special car, which isn't owned by 5000 other people.
I also do not care about times on the race track - I'm going up and down pass by pass.
And it's fun!
However, I agree that the steering is extremely sensitive - that's something which I much improved by adjusting the toe-in and out.
Additionally, Alfa offered an upgrade for the TCT which makes the load changes much more smooth - but on the other hand, a little bit of the raw character is gone with that.
However, it always - as usual - just depends what you're looking for. A car, which is perfect for each situation and where you don't require emotions? Then, the Porsche is a good choice. Want something irrational? Then - go for the Alfa.
And as usual - There is no accounting for taste :)
Ralf Metz ~Take a look to performance kit for the Alfa 4C...300 HP...it will be great...www.novitec-sportiva.com/en/News/Novitec-Tuning-Preview-For-Alfa-Romeo-4C
+Ralf Metz "A car, which is perfect for each situation and where you don't require emotions? " Yep, that's what German cars are all about. :)
They dont compare, one is a brilliant piece of German engineering the other is the perfect representation of how machinery can have emotional value.
I like this summary.
Its much like whisky making from the perspective of Scottish vs Japanese.
Japanese engineer their whisky to have a particular taste by design, while the Svottisj follow a traditional time honoured process and what comes out comes out basically.
Both make some incredibly good whisky despite taking totally different approaches.
The irony, writing the comparison straight after writing they can't be compared..
I wonder if he's driven either of them.
If i where a machine i probably get a Cayman, but because i have a heart i would without a doubt take the Alfa, just look at it, how can you ignore it? Its not just a machine, it will be your best friend, you will get mad with it some times but you will love him even more after that. Cuore Sportivo sempre.
lol
while I'm certain the Italian machine has attributes, my money goes with the near sure thing..Porsche Cayman, of course!
Looks like we have a Jeremy Clarkson wannabe here...
you pick an Italian car over a Porsche? qual è il problema?
Gayest shit I've heard all year.
Brain says PORSCHE .... Heart says 4C !
Wife says NO
😀😬
The wallet says alfa
I have no heart 😂
Italian car, this is why ...same with motorcycles:)
Brain says "NEITHER!" Heart says "I'd prefer to walk...."
There are cars that tick boxes and then there are cars that stir the soul. The Cayman may produce better numbers but it just can’t compete with the feeling you get driving a 4C on mountain bends. I’ve seen little children literally crowd a 4C parked by the side of the road. They know nothing about cars but just by looking at it they know it’s something special. Meanwhile the Cayman sits quietly hoping someone will notice it.
Exactly!
😂😂😂 well said
Both great cars. I love how the Alfa looks apart from the 2-spoke steering wheel.
In my country a Porsche cayman S costs 87.921€, while an Alfa Romeo 4C costs exactly 60.000€.The cayman goes from 0-100m/H in 5,1 s while the Alfa 4C goes in 4,5 s.The Cayman S has a much greater top speed though...The point is,he should have compared the basic Cayman(265 hp) not the S(320hp) with the Alfa 4C,afterall the Cayman S is "only" 27.921€ more expensive
dont know where you got your stats from but they are wrong, it's zero to sixty time is a second faster than what you claim, either can't you even compare these two, the Porsche is on a whole other lvl than this crappy 4c.
@@swansmeister That "level" is acquired at the cost of 27.000€. Spend half that much on a 4C and it will smoke any Cayman S on any track or road.
@@neutronalchemist3241 even with a 15000 dollar tune the 4c will never beat a cayman s. Porsche does crazy things with very little we all know that. I doubt a mid-engined porsche would lose to a 4c. It corners better, acceleration is better, it sounds better, it's just better end of story.
@@swansmeister Chiptuning BS Racing 500€; torsen limited slip differential Prometeo 1.000€; suspensions NTP Bilstein B16/Eibach 3.500€; wheel angles tuning 400€; Wheels OZ HLT 8Jx17” front and 9Jx18” rear 2.000€; Pirelli PZero Trofeo 205/45 R17 245/40 R18 1.250€, Sparco S line seat (not really needed) 1.600€; total 12.750€.
A standard Cayman can't be put on the same track without looking ridicolous.
Firstly, I still don't understand why the 4C needs to be compared to the Cayman. If the 4C is more similar to an Elise, then why not drag that one out of the garage?
Secondly, Porsche has been making sports cars for more than 70 years, and nothing else. So the fact that it has one of the best allround sports cars of the moment is hardly surprising. According to some it's also one of the most reliable. Jolly great! What I read in all of that is predictability. It looks the way you expect (in my opinion it's as unattractive as any other Porsche), it drives/handles the way you expect, it sounds the way you expect...
Thirdly, what makes Alfas likeable to me, is the fact that they have been all over the car spectrum in their 105 years of existance. They may not produce the absolute best cars in their class, but they know how to excite (both driver and onlooker). Owning one may drive you up the wall from time to time, but the joy they bring is priceless and so very worth it.
Lastly, I wish everyone a very happy 2015, and hope we all get to drive the cars we like! :)
I remember back when they were first compared, I would have taken the Alfa over the Porsche, but with time passing, in retrospect, I would have to choose the Alfa over the Porsche.
what?!!!!
I like that plot twist :D
Nicely put :-)
Agreed.... and I own one now.... since 2015.... 4C LE
I have a Cayman S and watching Chris slide it around the track is just magic, it looks so right 😁
The Alfa is beautiful but for the money I would want the multi cylinder howl and NA response of the Cayman.
what about now?
Chris' analyses are spot on. He drives with a great deal of sensitivity and really gets suspensions -- front and rear. He can also drive his behind off. To this day, I haven't seen anyone drift with the precision he shows. He does it with speed, and places the rear wheel within a mm of the edges. Nor have I seen anyone drive to a literal edge of a car's performance while maintaing safety. The best around. The best around.
Comical that he thinks comparing the Cayman S to the 4C means anything. The Cayman S starts at $65K the 4C at $53K. Should be comparing a base cayman which starts at $54K. The base cayman has 275HP and 214 Torque.
I own a 4C spider. It gets attention and is a very raw vehicle. You feel everything. The road, the brakes, and the steering are very sensitive. To me, it feels like a very nice-looking go-cart, and I love it.
I want one
how is it as a daily?
Just went back and looked at this after buying a 2020 4c spider. It’s Angelina Jolie to the Cayman as Jennifer Anniston, or pick your pair. The 4c is essentially and thankfully unchanged as production winds down. Rear suspension fix is changing rear rubber bushes to solid joints. Solid aftermarket to make these cars wild if that’s your thing. Don’t know who will make a car like this again between regulation and small market, at least at a price that they can be bought new (for just a couple months) or used (prices stabilizing around $45-$50. Review still holds, the buyer for this is looking for something specific that is not a Cayman or Corvette, or a used 911.
PDK vs Alfa's flappy padel is probably the best way to compare the 2 anyway. I love both. It would be interesting to re-do this comparison with the new 4 cylinder turbo engined Cayman 718.
I had an Alfa Giulietta with the 4C engine in. I now have a Cayman with the 2.9. I daily the Cayman but get to a few track days a year in it. It's brilliant.
Was the Giulietta good ?
@@d-n-a8119 Yeah. I loved it. Maybe a bit softer than the average hot hatch.
It isn't the same engine... aluminum block and head and quite a bit more. I have owned a 2015 4C LE since new and it is still my favorite car I have ever owned. Minor tweaks like uniballs instead of rubber bushings in the rear and better tires than the Pirelli P Zeros that come on the car make a huge difference. As far as looks..... 4C has it.... other cars just dream of looking so awesome ;-) By the way it has been an amazingly reliable car to own.... and compared to Pcar prices cheaper to maintain too.
I'm sure when they either update or make a second gen of the 4C it will be spectacular.
I would love to see the Alfa compared to a Lotus. I feel that for the price, you should get a bit more than a turbo 4cyl. A 6 spd manual would also make it much more appealing, and save some weight and money that could be used to spruce up the interior.
Fantastic review, no gimmicks just pure passion
So basically, it's not top gear. lol
in a sunnier country i'll have the 4C any day
The alfa looks better tho
Why won't Alpha lose the silly nose grill?, or at least make it so miniscule that it's not noticeable from a hundred yards?
@@seivaDsugnA because it's an iconic and striking piece of design. And it's not iconic in the sense of masking blandness and laziness like what Porsche does
@@seivaDsugnA your the only person ive ever heard say that
With gold wheels Alfa 4C is a little sex bomb.
+Chiara L *cough *cough seenthroughglass
Wouldn't an alignment solve the 4C camber/crown issues?
Sounds like the 4C is setup with front Toe set to 0 where as the Cayman might not be..
First of all, congratulations on the new channel! We would love to see how the 4C stacks up to the Elise S, given that the 4C is trying so hard to be like an Elise. Any chance of doing such a comparison? Cheers
alfa 4c forever.......!!!!
Have a look at the rear left light cluster that is savagely bouncing at 2:53
This should be the "high quality" of the "best sportcar of the planet"?
78glaurung a punished press car
I noticed this also
It is not about quality, it is more about perceived quality. Something similar to religion, it is not which one seems most logical, but which one looks better to you personally.
you'd be suprised what you can see wiggle on any car driving on bumpy roads in slow motion
The Porsche is the better car in pretty much every objective way, and I'm 90% sure I'd go with the Alfa. Had they offered a manual transmission, you can make that 100%
These cars do nothing to change the stereotypes. German - solid, well built, efficient, fast but a little dull. Italian - great looking, good performance, exciting but technically not as good a car. For me the Porsche looks a bit boring. The Alfa is gets my vote. Now I just need to find some money...
+winchuni22 true, and true,.... however, I have owned 2 boxsters and they have given me zero grief and 100% fun, reliable and fun is hard to find. You can thrash them on the track, then drive home in them without worry. Can't beat that
Alfred Yuen You can't, that's true. I have looked at a Boxter as a nineties model is not actually that expensive - servicing and parts are the problem. But then again, yours you say has done well. What year is your?
I’ll be looking to buy either or in the coming months. Coming from a cammed C5 Corvette I wonder how the lack of HP the Alfa makes will be redeem by the low weight. I do love the sound and ergonomics of the Cayman though
Used Jaguar f type v8 under $50k or even the 2022 f type 450 🥱
It is seriously quick....it will dust a C5 vette....not as fast as the latest Vettes but not far off. A tune and it is even quicker. Lots of after-market support. Drive one first on a twisty road in the mountains and you will fall in love. But it is NOT a cushmobile..... it is noisy, manual steering, and will require you to actually drive it instead of just being a passenger.... I love that in a car.
I'd take the Cayman with a manual. How the Alpha Romeo 4C could not have power steering, but then put an automatic makes no sense. The Cayman is built well, fun to drive, handles superbly and is all around a better car. Except maybe if you prefer the 4C's styling. Otherwise I don't see why wouldn't go for the Cayman
Thing is that these extras make the Cayman about half a ton heavier. This is why you cannot expect Bentley Arnage comfort in a Lotus Elise either. Today's semi-auto gearboxes are also quicker than manuals.
+Ahrle Bengtsdotter and yet they're heavier than manuals, they aren't as engaging as manuals, and they're made for two kinds of people:
Track Day Bros and rich morons who cannot drive stick.
Michael Tarantino Indeed. I personally hate them.
+Michael Tarantino or people who value lap times
+Michael Tarantino the steering is already heavy as hell if you but this with a manual it would make it almost undriveable the alpha is something you need two hands to drive
Remember, every review he’s ever written idolises German machinery, especially Porches and BMWs...made his mind up at 12 and is never going to change 😟
Alfa, the work of art.
Chris, so good to have you back in a place where your supporters can once again enjoy you videos without the 'Drive ±' utter bollocks. Just continue to do things your way, we dig it your style more than pretty much every motor journo there is on camera.
The Alfa Romeo is 10 times more beautiful than the dull Cayman.
The Alfa looks like a nice car but I don't like the headlights at all. The Cayman looks like a nice car, it doesn't look dull to me.
zambam3 They have up graded the headlights now
totally.
I agree the alpha is like a hot Italian petite brunette who steals your heart, unfortunately she will also steal your wallet too. Whereas the German blonde may not be a stunner but will be reliable and be there when you need her till the end. Pays your money and takes your choice.
Damn I am starting to sound like Mr Clarkson!....no offence meant.
Modern Alfa Romeos are absolutely reliable nowadays. I have had 7 Alfas so far. Of course the Alfas from the 80s were rust buckets and not the best but after Fiat took over they have been the same as any other car. I have had 2 post Fiat Alfas so far and they have been absolutely perfect with no problems at all.
What do you mean 'following the camber' and 'following the crown'?
A completely honest and reliable comparison. Somewhere around 3 minutes in Chris says the Cayman is the best sports car on the planet. Well, I'm done watching any more Cayman/Boxster versus videos then aren't I.
This is what we have come to expect from you. Thank you !
Another brilliant review.
Despite IMS fears, I "chose" a pre-electric steering Cayman S. Great car! LOVE IT! (I'm an Alfa fan as well. Had 3 Alfa's. YOu dont have to pick a side ;) )
Ims isnt an issue on the cayman, it has a beefed up ims.
Well said man well said!
Fuck yes what kind of Cayman tear? Spec?
**year
Bru that floyd mayweather statement was bold as fk do u hear what u are saying? Chris.
방인성 This video was in November 2014 before a lot of people realized how bad a guy Mayweather is. In Harris' defense I think he just didn't know. It was all about Floyd as a boxer.
As usual Alfa design outclass any car in the world.
LOL
@@prbassistant2711 Bad taste is normal
Bet you think a Mustang looks better.
Can only imagine if you dig women and have one , what she looks like;;;;Lol
Chris, you deserve soo many more subsricbers!
They'll get here...
Idk how recently he broke off and made this channel, but i just found it today.
Drive plus is now completely pointless. Glad I never signed up
Skyhunter I think he should have his own show on BBC.
+KirillVL your wish has come through sort of
Handling of a miata, it's italian, carbon fiber tub, better weight to power ratio? Is this what you can get used for 40,000?
Once again it comes down to what your heart would choose versus what your brain would... People say we shouldn't judge a book by it's cover but let's be honest... We all do.
In my modest opinion these 2 cars belong to different world. Cayman S is a quite luxury car that you can use to enjoy the speed but also to spend a nice week end somewhere . Alfa 4C is more in Lotus field...it is a special toy , quite spartan inside, amazing and different outside, fast, thrilling...but not a daily car...
check out that driver's side taillight at around 2:54
Too bad we don't have an Alfa 3.2 V6 with a dry sump in the 4C. Maybe some Penske or Ohlins dampers. The rear suspension needs better shocks. The Porsche uses struts all around. Its a matter of set up and damper quality. The front tram lining can be partly mitigated by a little more toe in and tyres larger side walls. Lightweight cars should not have super low section tires, it's not a good idea. My relevant cars have been 3 X-1/9's ( 2 track cars) S2K and i currently drive a Locost 7
Who bought the 4C now is happy for the incredible retail value.
Not so much who bought the german one
I do not understand this mania of comparing Alfa 4c and Porsche Cayman
They are 2 cars completely different
Not to mention that a Cayman costs a lot more
(Do not look at the official price, look at the final price of the dealer !!!)
There is only one car with which the Alfa 4c can be compared
and it is the Lotus Elise
Have you ever thought of comparing Lotus Elise and Porsche Cayman?
I think not !
Chris please please can you do a review on Audi RS7 VS Porsche Panamera turbo S, as one costs more £45,000 more than the other, this would be much appreciated.
So I'm trying to decide what to take away from this. If you live on shitty back roads or plan on using that car specifically for track days go for the Porsche?
I like the Cayman but I do have to admit what sells me on the 4c is the over all experience (Appearance, sound, setup, etc)
The thing with cars like like these is that the decision has already been made. Unless, of course, you hear some godawful news about the one you're already leaning on. It sounds like you're getting the 4C
Wonder if they can stick the Quadrifoglio's TT V6 in the 4C engine bay.
Alfa Romeo :
❤ Cuore Sportivo.
Arta,
Passione, Emozioni, Speciale.
Cosa vuoi di più della vita ?
Un "Luhano" o una Alfa speciale ?
But Porsche is rationally better
I was thinking about buying the Cayman I went for a test drive and the steering was absolutely dreadful
2.53, why is the light shaking like that, anyone else noticed this or is it just me.
Current reports state the steering/handling issues have been solved !
This comparison should b with the base Caymen!!
here's the thing: when you buy a car like this, are you buying it for anything other than emotional reasons? I mean, if you're being rational and sensible you buy a Kia Ceed surely?
So, for me, right out the gate, the car gives me goosebumps seeing it on the drive every morning..what's the point?
And for some reason..Porsche just...doesn't do that. It does so many things so well, but apart from the Porsche 917 - which is simply one of the prettiest cars ever made - Porsche just don't...move me the way an Alfa or a Maserati or or Ferrari,Lamborghini or an Aston would.
Why not compare it with the 718 2.0 turbo?
six years later and the Alfa is now worth 40k as a baseline, very little depreciation now. In the future I can see it is as an appreciating car. Can't say the same for the Porsche.
what he doesn't point out is that, being a lot lighter, the 4C is faster in the straight line and especially in the corners. No question about that, just laws of physics. The question being : is it the most important aspect in a car you buy to drive mostly on the road and will never race with?
+Nigo If you buy these cars you will take them to a track day... Boxster and 911 Carbiolet are the choices of non track drivers.
With that looks Porsche must be brilliant. In the other hand, those two are so different, never understood why people are comparing them.
All preference. 4C is Beautiful-truly Beautiful-so special-so exciting and strangely attainable
4C! :-) I have the Launch Edition nr. 165/500 and I Love the way it sounds, looks and drives :- Thanks for the review.
Still got it?
@@tootalltodrive yes 👍😉
@@Cerebrum72 how many miles and how is the reliability? thanks.
still go it? lol
I was in love with the 4C, and when the time came for it, I was planning to test drive one. However, now the styling (while still gorgeous) has worn off on me and I no longer like how wide it is. I'd most likely go the Porsche.
Cayman all the way... Could you shoot a video of the 2007 S with a manual gearbox?
please! :)
I don't know why everyone/reviewers drives the 4C outside of Race mode. It should only be driven in Race mode.
You should do a Cayman/Boxster GTS review
I don´t think there is a sense ... It is just about having top off or on and also, lack a very little bit of stiffness to it but add more "freedom" feel and sound. End
no, I mean a Boxster OR a Cayman GTS review, they're pretty much the same
I dont think is so hard to correct the minor faults on the Alfa. Change the steering will and fix the suspension and there you go! Its an epic car!! I think alfa should address these issues on a 2017 version. It will not be so costly.
Just imagine the 4C with the V6TT Giulia QV engine and trans and a bit better interior...
I like the interior and the rear view of cayman, but overall i choose 4C.(In black)
But i prefer the classic speedmeter for Alfa. That's my taste!
"sonorous" - having a deep, pleasant sound
Cheers for that one, Chris!
Can someone tell me what variant of blue that is on the Cayman ?
Great review and matchup.."Yeshua / Jesus is the way "
Is the 4C only available in LHD?
Is it just me or at 2:52 the left taillight of the Porsche almost fell off?
Does it always rain in the UK?
Here's the thing. First of all, those of us who don't live in the U.K. aren't taking our sports cars out for dives in the rain. You have to or you'd never go anywhere. My '13 Viper GTS stays in the garage, and the Subie WRX STi comes out in foul weather. Or if it's questionable I pull out the S2000. We also don't generally have shit roads. They tend to be pretty good. The term "British roads" says it all. "British conditions". So lets think about this in terms for the rest of us. Would I rather be in the Caymen or the 4C? That's easy. The Alpha is "special" and "different" and beautiful. It's kinda like the difference between my Viper and a Corvette. I don't want to see another of my car on the road, and I won't in the Viper, and I won't in the 4C. It'd take the 4C in a heartbeat. As you said, "It isn't another Porsche".
In all honesty, this is the video that encouraged me to buy my 981 Cayman GTS. Next stop, GT4
Does the sun ever shine in this country? seriously asking lol
Nice to see an Alfa that won't rust...
Open dif on a Cayman? Brz less than half the price with lsd as standard.
Porsche, however amazing, is still german. It is sensible and probably perfect. The Alfa is, well an Alfa! Italians live in the now! They value food, beautiful women, great wine. Its all about the emotions! I had a 147 . broke my heart many times, yet the love of my life. So emotional, so gorgeous.
Great that you've made your own channel!
wait, this has an open diff?
I think the Cayman is objectively the better car, but I already have a good car to use daily. For those times I want to get out and drive something special up a canyon or a mountain road, I think I’d want it to be an event. That, and I like the looks of the 4C much more than the Cayman, especially in person.
Alfa for me.
id rather wake up and look at the 4c than the Cayman and honestly if I were to buy the car the 4c is like 10k cheaper I would get some smaller but wider wheels and a new infotainment system. I test drove a 4c and it does follow the groves in the road but after like 10-15 minutes you get used of it the power is amazing and the brakes are strong to make it a little more manageable I think some smaller wheels wound do nice
Why not drive the LAUNCH edition which has the better suspension, better rear end, better brakes and staggered wheels? This is clearly the BASE version both inside and out. You are comparing a $89,000 Cayman S to a $55k car here.
Porsche and Alfa Romeo are the Apple of cars. They tell people yes their products are less, but it is magical and enhanced with pixie’s dust and unicorn’s piss, and then proceed to put a huge price tag on it. No offense, I don’t hate these companies nor do I love them, but lets be honest people, less is less.
Just outside of Tilshead in Salisbury Plain
2:52 you can literally see the tail light shaking in its socket.. would've thought Porsche screw their stuff down better than that
Coupe is beautiful, Spider almost as beautiful.
I like how Chris sticks with his Porsche pronunciation no matter what. I've called it the same my whole life and never been tempted to add the "ah"
Strangely enough he calls it both ways . "Sha" when he talked about the particular car and without when he talked of the manufacturer (I think :) ? )
Do you say "Ferrar" or "Ferrari"? "Alf" or "Alfa"? Same thing. "Porsch" is incorrect. You can choose to be wrong, but there is only one way to pronounce the word Porsche.
^lol.. dumbass..
DirtMcGirt BBJ You're the dumbass who introduced the topic...lol.
^^ Moron..
I almost expect more from the Alfa for the price in respect to handling and hardware. Needless to say it is gorgeous but 9 times out of 10 I'd take the Cayman S!
They are both great cars.
hope Alfa Romeo doing A Big Back mid Engine V12 Hybrid God Locking super cars
I have Giulia in Charlotte, NC. I rarely see another Giullia. I've never seen a 4C. That may not be important to you but it's a draw for me.
Than Alfa is just so nicer and more special than everyday Cayman. It's on a completely another level, not even comparable.