Hey Joe, I got my m2comp a year ago after watching your review. I’m going to order a GTS4.0 next year. I’m glad to see your videos getting better and better👍👍
I’ve had a 987 cayman for two years and the ratios were pretty long as well. But I loved it because it was like a drive mode select leaver. Leave in 2. and you are in sports+, go up to 3, 4 or even 5 in the city and you are pottering along in comfort or eco pro and it’s so relaxing. No extra button or dial needed ;) That’s what I love with all nat. asp. manual cars.
My garage is a M140i xDrive for all purposes. And a 718 Boxster GTS 4.0 The BMW is 5 doors and seats, big boot, xDrive, I live close to the mountains, an amazing car for all situations. The boxster is also a great Allrounder, does long distances comfortably, amazing for a flick around some roads or even a weekend car in the summer to escape into the mountains. I love my 2 cars so much!
I drove one of the first series of Cayman's many years ago on a Porsche Driver Training day. I agree the balance and power was amazing. Thank you Joe for yet another informative review. Looking forward to the next one mate.
Enjoyed that, thanks as always. I bought one of the first Cayman S's and still own the car. It's simply a brilliant sports car (no doubt this GTS is another level). I have Bose and never listen to anything except the 6 cylinder. Comparing to 911, I did that vs 4S ... yes better but not worth twice the money. Of course a 4 seat BMW 2, 3 or 4 is more practical but at a cost in terms of pure driving experience. Ultimately it's up to each buyer to decide. BMW discount cars to shift them, Porsche don't have to.
Great video 🤓!!! I recently acquired my 2023 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 which has the 4L NA flat six cylinder engine (same unit as a GT4) and a PDK gearbox. Power output (394 bhp) and torque (317 lb-ft) are a nice match to this car's sensible curb weight (~3200 lbs). The color is Gentian Blue metallic with a black/chalk all-leather interior and silver wheel rims. It's definitely an entertaining driver's car! So far, I've only done 326 miles but hopefully a lot more this next summer! The PDK is also a lot of fun (it's definitely quick) 🤓 All the best and thanks again from Colorado! "Porsche...There is No Substitute!!!"
I'm a PDK owner and I can't believe you said that having the PDK would be as bad as having the four-pot. Particularly considering you also said you didn't experienced a PDK. Maybe you should...
Yup, 981CS owner here and sure a manual can be more fun, but it can also be hard work when you're not thrashing it plus the PDK does have slightly shorter ratios, so I chose the PDK over the manual even both having the flat 6. Didn't even look at a 718 since a 4 pot in a sports car pretty much defeats the point for me- I'd have a GT86 if I wanted fun but not the sound. ...honestly don't think I'd pick a GTS 4.0 over a 981S either to be honest, but that's because I prefer the 981 styling and it doesn't need a custom exhaust to sound really good.
I’d take my old manual 350z any day over an automatic Porsche. Especially after having driven a manual Porsche. They’re so good that to me idk why anyone who would spec one would do so with pdk unless you drive it daily and are constantly in stop and go traffic. The irony of the best most involving drivers car having an automatic (don’t try to tell me it’s manual, if there’s no clutch pedal it’s not manual) is just confounding to me. If I’m getting a pdk Porsche I’d rather get something more interesting like a lc500, alpine a110, or used Mercedes amg black series.
I own a cayman 987 with shorter gears. Fun yes, but also I find myself shifting constantly when challenged by other newer sports cars on the road. Sometimes I wish I could just floor it and get up to the limit rather than lose precious seconds shifting.
Joe - love all your videos and intuitive, objective analysis. I drive a toy and a daily. 2014 Cayman 2.7 manual - so much fun and accessible drivability.2019 BMW 335D Gran Turismo. Very fast, spacious and economical - quite a Q car. Keep up the good work and avoid the demon ( electric).
Amazing to see today the M2 (non competition) price has shot up to £77.3k basic, whereas the GTS 4.0 is actually now marginally cheaper, and looks ‘better’ value starting at £77.1k basic!
@@JoeAchilles1 good spot, still a lot for an M2! I suspect a GTS at £77k+ would still have a lower total ownership cost than the M2, due to lower depreciation than the M2. And, the M2 Comp will be even more when that’s out.
@@JoeAchilles1 valid point depending on discount size, but the M2 has almost moved into another category with the weight difference between the two now at 355kg; 1805kg for the M2 vs 1450kg for the GTS. Cayman ICE production is currently scheduled to finish by end of 2025, so I suspect better as a long-term keeper. The ICE M2 is scheduled to carry on until about 2030.
Great review; From my perspective: Porsche surely makes great cars but AMG and BMW M just offer the better value for money. Many things which are standard at AMG and BMW M are often very expensive extras at Porsche.
@@JoeAchilles1 I just ordered my 2nd F87 this time 6 speed. I agonized over the Cayman and the extra options Id need to order. The pricing wouldve taken it into another financial level, while still driving a 4 cylinder within the price point. The GT4 too pricey and it's just not as daily. Joe you make great points. The one that almost pushed me to the Porsche was the resale value point you made. Thats very true. Still, like you, I went for the daily-ness of the M2 and the 6 cylinder which was my price point. Still I cant help but wonder how much Im missing in the driving experience.
If AMG and BMW were the best value for money, they wouldn't plummet as years go by... On the contrary, Porsche sportscars hold their value much much better.
Hi Joe, really enjoyed the video. I recently had just 30 minutes in your friend's new GT4, then went out in my M2C straight afterwards. I agree with nearly all your comments and I'm sure all my thoughts about the GT4 would apply equally to the GTS. The GT4 is superb to drive on UK rural roads - I'm not even particularly fussed about the long second gear, I wonder whether that reveals anything about my attitude to speed limits (no, surely not). I loved the gear change, the steering, the general feel. But when I got back in the M2 I was still enjoying the drive very nearly as much, but with so much more practicality and equipment for much less money. I felt the GT4 would not fit into my life in the same way, as a sports car which is also good for general running around. And the GT4 wouldn't replace my fast luxury GT - it doesn't begin to do luxury transport in the same way. I look forward to borrowing the GT4 for longer but I won't regret having to give it back.
I owned a 981 GT4 and M2 in parallel, both manual. While the M2 is fun, Porsche is in a whole other world in every aspect, from clutch feel to shifter. In fact the gap is so large that I couldn't enjoy the M2 when driving them back to back. I sold my M2 after having both cars for a little over a year. I know a few guys who own M2/M2 comp as daily drivers and have GT4s as fun cars and all agree that it's not even a competition. Just my 2 cents as someone who owned both cars.
@@dantesparda2016 If I had a GT4 as a fun car I don't think I would choose an M2 as a daily. I use an SUV as a daily, but the M2C doubles as fun and alternative run around.
It’s about 700 pounds (we use pounds, because that’s as God intended, LOL) heavier than this car. 700! And not mid-engined. I’ve owned BMWs for over 40 years, but they are overweight pigs now. You can’t really mask that with 500 hp. It’s sad, really. Don’t get me started on the Pig Snout. Keeping my e39 though.
3 years on am in a position where I could potentially buy one so watching the reviews again. Only Joe addresses the elephant in the room fairly. The long ratios mean if you decide you need to change up at say 5.5 / 6k rpm, you’re effectively driving a 300bhp car rather than 400! I really need to try one to see how enjoyable it is at 6 tenths. PDK could be an option, but seems daft considering the gear change itself is one of the best things about it! Hmmm 🤔 might see if I can try one tomorrow.
I recently sold my M2 competition with AC Schnitzer tuning upgrade (496bhp DCT) to scratch the Porsche itch ( and at 48 I was told frequently i was having a mid life crisis @ sapphire black with all the trimmings and ACS lowering springs). My local dealer let me have a both a 4.0 GTS also a 718 2.5 GTS to compare it with. For sound the 4.0 was for me just amazing, however the 2.5 GTS was surprisingly good to me and I really enjoyed driving it, felt more manageable than the 4.0. Was amazed that priced new there wasn’t a great deal of difference between the two engines though pricing post lockdown is simply all over the place. I can’t find a nearby new GTS 4.0 with low miles for much less than £65-£70k. For that money I think the 981 GT4 is worth a look. 718 GT4 at the moment are still in the £80k + bracket. Having also tried a 981 GT4 I simply loved the rawness of the car and will be my ultimate car at some point. Not wanting to spend that much and keep my budget on the sensible side I have gone for an Alpine A110S, it’s light, fun, raw, nowhere near as refined and capable as the Porsche but I have a 5 series daily for that. I pick it up next week and whilst I have a twinge of regret it’s not a 981 GTS or a two year old 718 GTS, I’m afraid my biggest regret is seeing the M2 competition disappear off my driveway.......
Joe, really enjoyed this review, great job! I do disagree with all of the reviewers and the complaints of the long gearing though. I have a 718 Spyder on the way and have spent a fair bit of seat time in one and never once did I feel that I was short of drive due to the fact that the ratios were too long for the engine, I think the ratios are a perfect match for the engine, any shorter and I felt as though I would be struggling to get all of the power and torque to the road. If you enjoy the shift, which I do, then I just found myself using first more as a driving gear. All in all thanks to Porsche for still producing naturally aspirated engines with manual gearboxes 👏
I realized my Camaro SS1LE had similar ratio and never cared at all so I stopped listening to that complaint. The longer ratios are kinda nice on track where there things belong
It's absolutely criminal this Iconic iteration of this Car (debuted in 2014 , was totally gutted in 2020 , now _finallly_ properly updated in 2021) was ever even considered upon to be given a dastardly 2 litre engine. What on Earth were Porsche thinking?! 0:26 Anyways: normal service has Proudly been resumed!
I'll stick with my 2.5 PDK 718 GTS and use my VW GTI when I need it. Both together cost about the same as one 718 GTS 4.0. And in total I've got 8 cylinders and about 595 hp, with seating for 7 people!
I’ve been trying to think of what the perfect GT sports car might be today and I think this or the equivalent Boxster might be it - with a reputable final drive mod maybe
Very surprised to hear you say that discounts, sorry "Dealer Contributions", are available on the new M3 & M4 already. I would have thought that in the short term they could sell as many as they can get from the factory at full list price.
Over here in Australia it not so close on price, the M2 Comp is around $115k where as the GTS4.0 over $200k. It’s almost double the price. Nice car though.
£45k for an M2 Comp makes me want to cry. RRP is €92,700 with €2400/yr road tax here in the Rip-Off Republic of Ireland. 150k for the new M3 & M4. You Brits don't realise how good you have it. The Irish car culture is being killed by our idiotic government.
@@RealOrbit-Australia I wish it was that easy but it would actually end up costing me more. Since Brexit I'd have to pay 10% import duty and 23% VAT on top of a Vehicle Registration Tax of 37% of market value. So it would come to over €100k.
Nice 👍 On my actual list of next cars to buy 👌🏻 It’s either the latest GTS or a 991 911 C2S, interested to hear your thoughts 💭 What’s gonna kill the Cayman is the interest rate Porsche offer it’s crazy.
@@JoeAchilles1 I have the buckets and I have tried the comfort and it’s definitely worth the money. Must of admit the car is much better with the PS4S. Prob the best upgrades. Unsure why Porsche put Pirelli’s on. Hmmm
Really interesting topic ! Doesn’t the 80mph 2nd gear on the cayman remove some of the fun of the manual on the road ? I think I’d go for a cayman pdk because of this 🙈 (yes I need to hit red line each time before changing gears 😆)
So PDK might change into 3rd before 70, personally I doubt it and what difference does it make ? You can't really enjoy these cars on the road legally. A bit of fun and suddenly it's 100+
Out of interest, I've been behind a GTS 4.0 in my i30n DCT, and they couldn't shake me in the corners at all. I always thought RWD was faster around corners?
Test drove this car summer last year. Agree almost word for word with your review. But Oh, the Gearing!!! Essentially makes the car or at least that gearbox and engine combo almost irrelevant for British roads and the enjoyment you should be getting on a typical B road, hearing it sing, as you are at totally illegal speeds if you are! Yes the torque with this 4.0 engine helps to negate that scenario a little but you feel you are almost pushed into getting the PDK version as shorter geared, ( and faster, and more economical to boot)
How does the shorter gearing of the PDK help when it's still way over the speed limit? Like 95% of the cars btw? Care to name a few performance cars that do not exceed speed limits in 2nd gear? I drove a 86hp Yaris that goes all the way to 100kph in 2nd gear - this whole argument is pointless unless the 4.0 felt slow and sluggish unless you hit the rev limit which isn't the case (and you state so yourself). Always feels like ppl are making up excuses to find a fault that isn't even there to begin with.
@@dantesparda2016 PDK at least lets you fully rev through 2nd without getting in trouble. Also since the manual is basically only useful in 2nd, it seems a bit pointless having it. Still has the hassle of driving a manual in traffic but you don't really get a lot of the fun a manual should have, since it's not a car where stuff like clutch kicking to throw the back out is really relevant either.
@@ApothecaryTerry PDK still revs to 75mph/120kph. That's over the speed limit on any country road in the whole world. And again: the manual only useful in 2nd gear? Clearly shows you haven't driven these cars if you think you have to hit the rev limit every time to be fast/enjoy the car.
@@dantesparda2016 75mph is a speed you can get away with, even if technically it isn't legal...whereas 85 is really pushing it. Of course you can have fun in lower gears, but if you want to get the most out of it then you'd basically be in 2nd the whole time. I'm not saying a manual is useless, I'm just saying that, for me, the disadvantages outweigh any advantage in fun over a PDK. If 2nd went to maybe 55-60mph I might feel differently. In terms of not driving it, that would explain the video on my channel of me driving the 981S that I've got parked outside! Crap video, slow driving, but that's not the point ☺ I'd prefer the PDK with shorter gears too, but long means it's close to 50mpg on a run, cruising at about 65- necessary for hearing the stereo properly over the tyres.
@@ApothecaryTerry no offense and congrats to your 981s, it's nice but you can't compare it to the 3.8L in the GT4 or the 4.0 in the 718s. Power delivery and torque are conpletely different in those cars. So you want to shift at 75 and then? Immediately shift down cause you're reaching the 82? No you'd still be stuck in 2nd Gear if hitting the rev limit is all you care about. I drove plenty manuals, almost all my cars were manuals. My last daily was a manual M2 and even with a turbo engine and shorter gear ratios it doesn't even scratch at a GT4's level regarding driving dynamics, engagement and fun. In the end it depends where and how you drive but going on proper twisties, you will never keep shifting like people would like to imagine, rowing through the whole gearbox, cause most cars hit the sweet spot in 2nd gear or barely engage the 3rd before reaching speeds that put them in jail. If you drive on roads with longer, stretched out sections then you can shift a bit earlier and that's that. There's plenty of power and torque before the limit. If it's about enjoying the sound and pushing it then engage 1st gear. I know plenty of owners and don't know a single one who would sell his GT4/GTS 4.0 because of the gear ratio, because it's like Joe says in his review: it's still powerful and fun without hitting the limit on every gear. If you feel like racing such performance cars at their absolute limit, riding at the rev limit non stop then take it to a track.
Great video Joe, as always. Just slightly off tack, in your videos, could you also include a reference to lb-ft as well as N m with reference to TRQ figures, for us old gits. Thanks mate.
If it’s a daily driver and you need some room get an M3 or RS5. If you have a daily driver and are looking for a fun car, or just don’t need the practicality, get the Porsche.
Hey Joe who was that following you in the white Porsche at the very end of this film, he wasn't hanging around, it wasn't Harry Metcalf telling you to get off his land, LOL.
You touched upon it briefly, the in gear speed. Too be honest almost all performance cars now if pushed beyond 6th/10th of their performance put you into some serious illegality. I was diving home tonight and was thinking the if I pushed the fast pedal to the floor I'd be doing 100mph in a matter of seconds, it just bonkers
Technically speaking, a Dacia Sandero will do 100mph in a matter of seconds too. Just...quite a lot of seconds ☺ It is crazy though, my last car did 100-160 faster than a lot of cars do 0-60. Not that I ever tried it (honestly officer!). My current car (981CS, hence watching this video!) is a little slower past 100 but it shifts to 3rd at 75mph, which is the exact speed at which the spoiler pops up. Very unhelpful for not getting caught speeding...
Mr. Achilles thank you for all your great videos! I know it’s out of place but I would like to ask you about your Brompton, specifically the one you rode in the 2015 World Championship. Other than the 56 t chain ring would you mind telling us what other gearing changes you made? I suppose you probably put it in 6 th . and got on with it!
Joe..question on the suspension. The GTS is offered out the door with with SPASM (20 mm lowered), or if that is too low and rough for you they offer a no cost option to move to PASM (10 mm lowered). Do you know which suspension you were driving and do you have a perspective on these options? It is a hotly debated topic on the forums and arguments can be made for both options. By the way, the GT4 comes delivered 30 mm lowered, but my understanding is that it has a totally different suspension than the GTS.
Pretty sure he answers that in his first drive, at least which it has if not whether he likes it, can't remember exactly. ruclips.net/video/Afi0BlqMyS0/видео.html
@@ApothecaryTerry Thanks for the insight. Joe comments around the 11:30 minute mark about the suspension. Overall he seems comfortable with the SPASM (20mm lowered) solution. I am in the process of ordering a 2022 GTS and need to decide on SPASM or PASM. I'm leaning towards SPASM and Joe's observation seems to support that decision.
@@stevenkrekeler8403 Personally I have neither, but I did switch from a Lexus GS450h to a 981S with the standard suspension. That initially felt like switching from zero-G to losing an MMA fight every time I drove, but after 4000 miles it feels actually pretty comfortable now, so I reckon you'd get used to the firmer option easily enough, although I can't comment on the handling benefits.
I can’t look past that tall gearing, there is really no need. They could have had a big gap between 5th and 6th if really want it for high speed cruising on the autobahn. It’s not really that car anyway though so just have them all shorter. Suppose the only saving grace is the 4.0 which means it will still be quick at 6 tenths as you say short shift, but then what are you paying for ... just a bit flawed unfortunately. I reckon there will be other cars you can have just as much fun in, for a lot less money.
Picked mine up last Saturday (Manual). 540miles & its soooo good.
Hey Joe, I got my m2comp a year ago after watching your review. I’m going to order a GTS4.0 next year. I’m glad to see your videos getting better and better👍👍
I’ve had a 987 cayman for two years and the ratios were pretty long as well. But I loved it because it was like a drive mode select leaver. Leave in 2. and you are in sports+, go up to 3, 4 or even 5 in the city and you are pottering along in comfort or eco pro and it’s so relaxing. No extra button or dial needed ;) That’s what I love with all nat. asp. manual cars.
Good point, I've a 987 Boxster and those characteristics describe it perfectly
My garage is a M140i xDrive for all purposes. And a 718 Boxster GTS 4.0
The BMW is 5 doors and seats, big boot, xDrive, I live close to the mountains, an amazing car for all situations.
The boxster is also a great Allrounder, does long distances comfortably, amazing for a flick around some roads or even a weekend car in the summer to escape into the mountains.
I love my 2 cars so much!
I hope they give you a new gt3 to review😬😬
Me too 😬
@@JoeAchilles1 whos your local dealership? ill spam them😂
Me too. It feels really different.
They actually have now.
I drove one of the first series of Cayman's many years ago on a Porsche Driver Training day. I agree the balance and power was amazing. Thank you Joe for yet another informative review. Looking forward to the next one mate.
Stunning aren't they mate, thanks for watching as always 🙏
Cracking little sports car, especially in that viper green and that 4.0...Nice little soundtrack 👌
Great content Mr Achillies...🎩
Enjoyed that, thanks as always.
I bought one of the first Cayman S's and still own the car. It's simply a brilliant sports car (no doubt this GTS is another level). I have Bose and never listen to anything except the 6 cylinder. Comparing to 911, I did that vs 4S ... yes better but not worth twice the money.
Of course a 4 seat BMW 2, 3 or 4 is more practical but at a cost in terms of pure driving experience. Ultimately it's up to each buyer to decide. BMW discount cars to shift them, Porsche don't have to.
Great video 🤓!!! I recently acquired my 2023 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 which has the 4L NA flat six cylinder engine (same unit as a GT4) and a PDK gearbox. Power output (394 bhp) and torque (317 lb-ft) are a nice match to this car's sensible curb weight (~3200 lbs). The color is Gentian Blue metallic with a black/chalk all-leather interior and silver wheel rims. It's definitely an entertaining driver's car!
So far, I've only done 326 miles but hopefully a lot more this next summer! The PDK is also a lot of fun (it's definitely quick) 🤓
All the best and thanks again from Colorado!
"Porsche...There is No Substitute!!!"
Where in CO? Definitely a drivers’ paradise out here.
I'm a PDK owner and I can't believe you said that having the PDK would be as bad as having the four-pot. Particularly considering you also said you didn't experienced a PDK. Maybe you should...
I agree , drove both and the PDK is just perfect for this car.
Yup, 981CS owner here and sure a manual can be more fun, but it can also be hard work when you're not thrashing it plus the PDK does have slightly shorter ratios, so I chose the PDK over the manual even both having the flat 6. Didn't even look at a 718 since a 4 pot in a sports car pretty much defeats the point for me- I'd have a GT86 if I wanted fun but not the sound.
...honestly don't think I'd pick a GTS 4.0 over a 981S either to be honest, but that's because I prefer the 981 styling and it doesn't need a custom exhaust to sound really good.
I’d take my old manual 350z any day over an automatic Porsche. Especially after having driven a manual Porsche. They’re so good that to me idk why anyone who would spec one would do so with pdk unless you drive it daily and are constantly in stop and go traffic. The irony of the best most involving drivers car having an automatic (don’t try to tell me it’s manual, if there’s no clutch pedal it’s not manual) is just confounding to me. If I’m getting a pdk Porsche I’d rather get something more interesting like a lc500, alpine a110, or used Mercedes amg black series.
@@ericm8368 time to shift your paradigm
Sorry, definitely not. Take a survey if you wish.
I have the M2 comp as well. Great car. I've had 2 Boxsters and just ordered a new one for delivery in July. Both awesome vehicles.
Videos getting better and better. As a BMW and Porsche owner this is unsurprisingly my favourite channel!
I own a cayman 987 with shorter gears. Fun yes, but also I find myself shifting constantly when challenged by other newer sports cars on the road. Sometimes I wish I could just floor it and get up to the limit rather than lose precious seconds shifting.
Be honest now, you’re turning into a Porsche fanboy aren’t ya! I don’t blame you 😆 Keep bringing the content big man 🙏🏽
After watching this review I ordered an Aventurine Green Manual GTS, got a 12 month wait, I'm sure I'll watch the review again in the meantime 😄
Haha awesome to hear, what a car! Congratulations
I’ve come to really like this colour and the manual gearbox where before I’d have been for the PDK. Great video, please keep them coming.
Always good to see you driving a Porsche.
Already liked this before watching! Two cracking cars 👍
Great video Joe! I got myself a 718 GT4, I think your review may have helped me over the line 👍🏻
Buying a cayman GTS instead of the GT4 or buying an M2 comp?
@@gurujojo8992 Sorry, you comment is totally clueless.
@@jdm6364 Joe reviewed a GT4 in a previous video...it was a follow up comment..
Joe - love all your videos and intuitive, objective analysis. I drive a toy and a daily. 2014 Cayman 2.7 manual - so much fun and accessible drivability.2019 BMW 335D Gran Turismo. Very fast, spacious and economical - quite a Q car. Keep up the good work and avoid the demon ( electric).
Getting mine towards the end of this year... your review just made me realize how lucky I am! Keep up the great work.
Bet you can't wait!!! Maga bit of kit 🔥
@@JoeAchilles1 I am really hoping you meant "mega"?
Amazing to see today the M2 (non competition) price has shot up to £77.3k basic, whereas the GTS 4.0 is actually now marginally cheaper, and looks ‘better’ value starting at £77.1k basic!
The base M2 (update) is actually £67,670, you need to unselect the M package in the configurator for some reason.
@@JoeAchilles1 good spot, still a lot for an M2! I suspect a GTS at £77k+ would still have a lower total ownership cost than the M2, due to lower depreciation than the M2. And, the M2 Comp will be even more when that’s out.
Potentially, but 80+ % of owners buy/rent using PCP, I'm guessing the payments on the M2 will be substantially lower due to big discounts.
@@JoeAchilles1 valid point depending on discount size, but the M2 has almost moved into another category with the weight difference between the two now at 355kg; 1805kg for the M2 vs 1450kg for the GTS. Cayman ICE production is currently scheduled to finish by end of 2025, so I suspect better as a long-term keeper. The ICE M2 is scheduled to carry on until about 2030.
Great review; From my perspective: Porsche surely makes great cars but AMG and BMW M just offer the better value for money. Many things which are standard at AMG and BMW M are often very expensive extras at Porsche.
I think you’ve just summed it up perfectly.
Yes, indeed. Still I wanna try the Cayman
So true, it's very hard/almost impossible to order a Porsche without getting £5k plus of options 😬
@@JoeAchilles1 I just ordered my 2nd F87 this time 6 speed. I agonized over the Cayman and the extra options Id need to order. The pricing wouldve taken it into another financial level, while still driving a 4 cylinder within the price point. The GT4 too pricey and it's just not as daily. Joe you make great points. The one that almost pushed me to the Porsche was the resale value point you made. Thats very true. Still, like you, I went for the daily-ness of the M2 and the 6 cylinder which was my price point.
Still I cant help but wonder how much Im missing in the driving experience.
If AMG and BMW were the best value for money, they wouldn't plummet as years go by... On the contrary, Porsche sportscars hold their value much much better.
No words! Amazing review. ❤️
Thank you ❤️
So much better than any BMW M car
Like I said in the video, a Cayman and an M2/3/4 offer different packages.
Joe back with another banger.
Hi Joe, nice video, try the GT4RS, you will be excited even more and happy like a little child 😉
2.5x the price of this car, though. Magnificent car, of course.
About $250,00 USD over here. Vs $100 for this car.
Approx $140 for a GT4.
You never fail to deliver Joe. Top review! 👏🏻👍🏻
Thank you mate 👊👊
I love the Cayman very much! Good Video👌
Great video mate, it's been far too long since I watched your content!
Thanks buddy, hope you're well mate, been way too long ♥️♥️
Hi Joe, really enjoyed the video. I recently had just 30 minutes in your friend's new GT4, then went out in my M2C straight afterwards. I agree with nearly all your comments and I'm sure all my thoughts about the GT4 would apply equally to the GTS. The GT4 is superb to drive on UK rural roads - I'm not even particularly fussed about the long second gear, I wonder whether that reveals anything about my attitude to speed limits (no, surely not). I loved the gear change, the steering, the general feel. But when I got back in the M2 I was still enjoying the drive very nearly as much, but with so much more practicality and equipment for much less money. I felt the GT4 would not fit into my life in the same way, as a sports car which is also good for general running around. And the GT4 wouldn't replace my fast luxury GT - it doesn't begin to do luxury transport in the same way. I look forward to borrowing the GT4 for longer but I won't regret having to give it back.
I think you are spot on. The amount the BMW is behind the Porsche is fairly small but the practicality difference is huge
I owned a 981 GT4 and M2 in parallel, both manual.
While the M2 is fun, Porsche is in a whole other world in every aspect, from clutch feel to shifter. In fact the gap is so large that I couldn't enjoy the M2 when driving them back to back.
I sold my M2 after having both cars for a little over a year.
I know a few guys who own M2/M2 comp as daily drivers and have GT4s as fun cars and all agree that it's not even a competition.
Just my 2 cents as someone who owned both cars.
@@dantesparda2016 If I had a GT4 as a fun car I don't think I would choose an M2 as a daily. I use an SUV as a daily, but the M2C doubles as fun and alternative run around.
Love both cars but Porsche ftw
Harry Metcalfe weighed this car fully wet, and it was only 1380kg from memory. Even lighter than Porsche quotes.
It’s about 700 pounds (we use pounds, because that’s as God intended, LOL) heavier than this car. 700! And not mid-engined. I’ve owned BMWs for over 40 years, but they are overweight pigs now. You can’t really mask that with 500 hp. It’s sad, really. Don’t get me started on the Pig Snout.
Keeping my e39 though.
3 years on am in a position where I could potentially buy one so watching the reviews again.
Only Joe addresses the elephant in the room fairly. The long ratios mean if you decide you need to change up at say 5.5 / 6k rpm, you’re effectively driving a 300bhp car rather than 400!
I really need to try one to see how enjoyable it is at 6 tenths. PDK could be an option, but seems daft considering the gear change itself is one of the best things about it!
Hmmm 🤔 might see if I can try one tomorrow.
Always just so informative and great to watch. Brilliant.
Can’t wait for gt4 and 911 reviews and thoughts on they best daily !
Great to see you shifting - its very boring to see people yammering while sliding a car around a track sideways with a slushbox. Makes me miss my 987
Another fantastic review, can’t wait to see the content on the M3 😊 definitely one of the best RUclips channel out their.
I recently sold my M2 competition with AC Schnitzer tuning upgrade (496bhp DCT) to scratch the Porsche itch ( and at 48 I was told frequently i was having a mid life crisis @ sapphire black with all the trimmings and ACS lowering springs). My local dealer let me have a both a 4.0 GTS also a 718 2.5 GTS to compare it with. For sound the 4.0 was for me just amazing, however the 2.5 GTS was surprisingly good to me and I really enjoyed driving it, felt more manageable than the 4.0. Was amazed that priced new there wasn’t a great deal of difference between the two engines though pricing post lockdown is simply all over the place. I can’t find a nearby new GTS 4.0 with low miles for much less than £65-£70k. For that money I think the 981 GT4 is worth a look. 718 GT4 at the moment are still in the £80k + bracket. Having also tried a 981 GT4 I simply loved the rawness of the car and will be my ultimate car at some point. Not wanting to spend that much and keep my budget on the sensible side I have gone for an Alpine A110S, it’s light, fun, raw, nowhere near as refined and capable as the Porsche but I have a 5 series daily for that. I pick it up next week and whilst I have a twinge of regret it’s not a 981 GTS or a two year old 718 GTS, I’m afraid my biggest regret is seeing the M2 competition disappear off my driveway.......
Joe, really enjoyed this review, great job! I do disagree with all of the reviewers and the complaints of the long gearing though. I have a 718 Spyder on the way and have spent a fair bit of seat time in one and never once did I feel that I was short of drive due to the fact that the ratios were too long for the engine, I think the ratios are a perfect match for the engine, any shorter and I felt as though I would be struggling to get all of the power and torque to the road. If you enjoy the shift, which I do, then I just found myself using first more as a driving gear. All in all thanks to Porsche for still producing naturally aspirated engines with manual gearboxes 👏
I think I’m ok with long ratio now that you have 4liters of power and increase hp and torque. Short shifting won’t be that bad.
I realized my Camaro SS1LE had similar ratio and never cared at all so I stopped listening to that complaint. The longer ratios are kinda nice on track where there things belong
It's absolutely criminal this Iconic iteration of this Car (debuted in 2014 , was totally gutted in 2020 , now _finallly_ properly updated in 2021) was ever even considered upon to be given a dastardly 2 litre engine. What on Earth were Porsche thinking?!
0:26 Anyways: normal service has Proudly been resumed!
Knew it was filmed two months ago....the sun is shining 😂😂
I'll stick with my 2.5 PDK 718 GTS and use my VW GTI when I need it. Both together cost about the same as one 718 GTS 4.0. And in total I've got 8 cylinders and about 595 hp, with seating for 7 people!
Awesome bit of kit and that colour is ace 👍🏻👍🏻
I’ve been trying to think of what the perfect GT sports car might be today and I think this or the equivalent Boxster might be it - with a reputable final drive mod maybe
These are not GT cars, though. They are proper lightweight, mid-engined sports cars.
The 911 has become a GT car. It’s quite big now.
There is (2024) a set of shorter gearing that can be installed in these. Lower 2-3-4-5.
About 10,000 GBP including installation, though.
What a fantastic noise ! Amazing machine
Brilliant, brilliant video, Joe.
Very surprised to hear you say that discounts, sorry "Dealer Contributions", are available on the new M3 & M4 already. I would have thought that in the short term they could sell as many as they can get from the factory at full list price.
Thanks Buddy another great compelling video Joe 👌👏
With those sunglasses, definitely the BMW
Great video Joe.. very informative thanks
No brainer for me. GTS
Over here in Australia it not so close on price, the M2 Comp is around $115k where as the GTS4.0 over $200k. It’s almost double the price. Nice car though.
Here in India, for reasons unknown, the M2 Comp costs $113k and the 718 GTS $120k more or less without options.
So the Flat 6 sounds delicious!
Good review - hits the mark
The BMW just looks like your average daily runabout.. ok if you like stealth. Went PDk 718S after the too tall gearing in my old 981. Good vid👍🏼
Why is the comparison not to the M2 CS, very similar price to the GTS 4.0, right?
£45k for an M2 Comp makes me want to cry. RRP is €92,700 with €2400/yr road tax here in the Rip-Off Republic of Ireland. 150k for the new M3 & M4. You Brits don't realise how good you have it. The Irish car culture is being killed by our idiotic government.
Just go get one from England mate....
@@RealOrbit-Australia I wish it was that easy but it would actually end up costing me more. Since Brexit I'd have to pay 10% import duty and 23% VAT on top of a Vehicle Registration Tax of 37% of market value. So it would come to over €100k.
move hereee
time to move!
Short and sweet, perfect
Nice 👍
On my actual list of next cars to buy 👌🏻
It’s either the latest GTS or a 991 911 C2S, interested to hear your thoughts 💭
What’s gonna kill the Cayman is the interest rate Porsche offer it’s crazy.
Drive both. I did that 14 years ago and went for the Cayman. Half the money in my case Cayman S vs 911 4S
@@andybird6102
I’ve had a 2006 Cayman S and a 997 911 C2
I’m leaning towards a 2013 - 2016 C2S but still undecided as yet
Probably one of the coolest cars on the road... you have to be really involved with the car which makes it so brilliant! Awesome video bro ❤
Joe you should try one with the sports folding buckets. It feels even better and you still get the comfort.
Yeah the buckets are amazing, not sure if they make it a better road car though...
@@JoeAchilles1 I have the buckets and I have tried the comfort and it’s definitely worth the money. Must of admit the car is much better with the PS4S. Prob the best upgrades. Unsure why Porsche put Pirelli’s on. Hmmm
Great review! Great car!
981GT4 IN THE END. WHAT A CAR
Really interesting topic ! Doesn’t the 80mph 2nd gear on the cayman remove some of the fun of the manual on the road ? I think I’d go for a cayman pdk because of this 🙈 (yes I need to hit red line each time before changing gears 😆)
So PDK might change into 3rd before 70, personally I doubt it and what difference does it make ? You can't really enjoy these cars on the road legally. A bit of fun and suddenly it's 100+
If you want to drive 7500 rpm, use 1st gear or reverse 🔄
Out of interest, I've been behind a GTS 4.0 in my i30n DCT, and they couldn't shake me in the corners at all. I always thought RWD was faster around corners?
M2 Comp is the only choice for me as I can get a road bike in the boot, good luck in a Porsche
Fantastic Joe 👍
Test drove this car summer last year. Agree almost word for word with your review. But Oh, the Gearing!!! Essentially makes the car or at least that gearbox and engine combo almost irrelevant for British roads and the enjoyment you should be getting on a typical B road, hearing it sing, as you are at totally illegal speeds if you are! Yes the torque with this 4.0 engine helps to negate that scenario a little but you feel you are almost pushed into getting the PDK version as shorter geared, ( and faster, and more economical to boot)
How does the shorter gearing of the PDK help when it's still way over the speed limit?
Like 95% of the cars btw?
Care to name a few performance cars that do not exceed speed limits in 2nd gear?
I drove a 86hp Yaris that goes all the way to 100kph in 2nd gear - this whole argument is pointless unless the 4.0 felt slow and sluggish unless you hit the rev limit which isn't the case (and you state so yourself).
Always feels like ppl are making up excuses to find a fault that isn't even there to begin with.
@@dantesparda2016 PDK at least lets you fully rev through 2nd without getting in trouble. Also since the manual is basically only useful in 2nd, it seems a bit pointless having it. Still has the hassle of driving a manual in traffic but you don't really get a lot of the fun a manual should have, since it's not a car where stuff like clutch kicking to throw the back out is really relevant either.
@@ApothecaryTerry PDK still revs to 75mph/120kph. That's over the speed limit on any country road in the whole world.
And again: the manual only useful in 2nd gear?
Clearly shows you haven't driven these cars if you think you have to hit the rev limit every time to be fast/enjoy the car.
@@dantesparda2016 75mph is a speed you can get away with, even if technically it isn't legal...whereas 85 is really pushing it.
Of course you can have fun in lower gears, but if you want to get the most out of it then you'd basically be in 2nd the whole time. I'm not saying a manual is useless, I'm just saying that, for me, the disadvantages outweigh any advantage in fun over a PDK. If 2nd went to maybe 55-60mph I might feel differently.
In terms of not driving it, that would explain the video on my channel of me driving the 981S that I've got parked outside! Crap video, slow driving, but that's not the point ☺ I'd prefer the PDK with shorter gears too, but long means it's close to 50mpg on a run, cruising at about 65- necessary for hearing the stereo properly over the tyres.
@@ApothecaryTerry no offense and congrats to your 981s, it's nice but you can't compare it to the 3.8L in the GT4 or the 4.0 in the 718s. Power delivery and torque are conpletely different in those cars.
So you want to shift at 75 and then? Immediately shift down cause you're reaching the 82? No you'd still be stuck in 2nd Gear if hitting the rev limit is all you care about.
I drove plenty manuals, almost all my cars were manuals. My last daily was a manual M2 and even with a turbo engine and shorter gear ratios it doesn't even scratch at a GT4's level regarding driving dynamics, engagement and fun.
In the end it depends where and how you drive but going on proper twisties, you will never keep shifting like people would like to imagine, rowing through the whole gearbox, cause most cars hit the sweet spot in 2nd gear or barely engage the 3rd before reaching speeds that put them in jail.
If you drive on roads with longer, stretched out sections then you can shift a bit earlier and that's that. There's plenty of power and torque before the limit.
If it's about enjoying the sound and pushing it then engage 1st gear.
I know plenty of owners and don't know a single one who would sell his GT4/GTS 4.0 because of the gear ratio, because it's like Joe says in his review: it's still powerful and fun without hitting the limit on every gear.
If you feel like racing such performance cars at their absolute limit, riding at the rev limit non stop then take it to a track.
Great review Joe - DeMan close ratio maual box ????
As a car to drive I’d take the Cayman, as something to use every day or if it were my only car I’d take the M2... yes I am biased.
Great video Joe, as always. Just slightly off tack, in your videos, could you also include a reference to lb-ft as well as N m with reference to TRQ figures, for us old gits. Thanks mate.
Divide by 1.356 - most used numbers on my calculator 😂
If it’s a daily driver and you need some room get an M3 or RS5. If you have a daily driver and are looking for a fun car, or just don’t need the practicality, get the Porsche.
Hey Joe who was that following you in the white Porsche at the very end of this film, he wasn't hanging around, it wasn't Harry Metcalf telling you to get off his land, LOL.
Haha I have no idea actually, he was moving though you're right!
Another great video
Thank you ❤️
@@JoeAchilles1 your welcome Joe
You touched upon it briefly, the in gear speed.
Too be honest almost all performance cars now if pushed beyond 6th/10th of their performance put you into some serious illegality.
I was diving home tonight and was thinking the if I pushed the fast pedal to the floor I'd be doing 100mph in a matter of seconds, it just bonkers
Technically speaking, a Dacia Sandero will do 100mph in a matter of seconds too. Just...quite a lot of seconds ☺
It is crazy though, my last car did 100-160 faster than a lot of cars do 0-60. Not that I ever tried it (honestly officer!). My current car (981CS, hence watching this video!) is a little slower past 100 but it shifts to 3rd at 75mph, which is the exact speed at which the spoiler pops up. Very unhelpful for not getting caught speeding...
It sounds like the final drive ratio is the issue Joe not the gears. Perhaps the aftermarket can fix that?
Great review Joe, shame I can’t afford one 🤣
I wonder, can you get the dif changed or alterd for shorter ratios 🤔🤔🤔
@@johngalt5411 nice one. Il have to watch that video
Mr. Achilles thank you for all your great videos! I know it’s out of place but I would like to ask you about your Brompton, specifically the one you
rode in the 2015 World Championship. Other than the 56 t chain ring would you mind telling us what other gearing changes you made? I suppose you probably put it in 6 th . and got on with it!
I had to do a double take at the thumbnail, my 718 has the reg RO20 KTO
"Oh that fourlita" 🤣🤣🤣
Joe..question on the suspension. The GTS is offered out the door with with SPASM (20 mm lowered), or if that is too low and rough for you they offer a no cost option to move to PASM (10 mm lowered). Do you know which suspension you were driving and do you have a perspective on these options? It is a hotly debated topic on the forums and arguments can be made for both options. By the way, the GT4 comes delivered 30 mm lowered, but my understanding is that it has a totally different suspension than the GTS.
Pretty sure he answers that in his first drive, at least which it has if not whether he likes it, can't remember exactly.
ruclips.net/video/Afi0BlqMyS0/видео.html
@@ApothecaryTerry Thanks for the insight. Joe comments around the 11:30 minute mark about the suspension. Overall he seems comfortable with the SPASM (20mm lowered) solution. I am in the process of ordering a 2022 GTS and need to decide on SPASM or PASM. I'm leaning towards SPASM and Joe's observation seems to support that decision.
@@stevenkrekeler8403 Personally I have neither, but I did switch from a Lexus GS450h to a 981S with the standard suspension. That initially felt like switching from zero-G to losing an MMA fight every time I drove, but after 4000 miles it feels actually pretty comfortable now, so I reckon you'd get used to the firmer option easily enough, although I can't comment on the handling benefits.
I prefer the m2 competition because I think it less expensive than the Porsche and has a better design too
Are these the same roads mr. Harry Metcalfe romps on? They look familiar but could be simply "England"
I was thinking the exact same thing 😂
Gotta love Harry! Great review here as well Joe 👌🏻
But a M2 CS lists at more like 75k isn’t that the obvious comparison you should have made ?
Lovely spec but would've looked so much better with Silver or Satin Aurum alloys...
Can hear the excitement in your voice mate 😅 Great vid
natural aspiration all the way
I can’t look past that tall gearing, there is really no need. They could have had a big gap between 5th and 6th if really want it for high speed cruising on the autobahn. It’s not really that car anyway though so just have them all shorter. Suppose the only saving grace is the 4.0 which means it will still be quick at 6 tenths as you say short shift, but then what are you paying for ... just a bit flawed unfortunately. I reckon there will be other cars you can have just as much fun in, for a lot less money.
Which one can you afford? Huge difference in price. The GTS is well over $100k and the M2 is $63k
I own a Cayman but acknowledge BMW thick steering wheels are the best
Really should be comparing M4 comp as that is the same price point as GTS 4.0
It does if you're comparing power to weight
It has The Wail and that’s enough for me.
Why are the ratios soo long?! Do people swap cogs is that even possible
You dont just daily a GT4 😆. M2 for everyday. GT4 for you Garage Queen Track Monster..
What you want to put extra miles on a Porsche to get bread? Get a used Golf GTi or something as your daily and the Cayman for fun road trips.
Ha! No one, and I mean NO ONE, would look twice at the BMW, whatever it is, but they would the Porsche - no contest 👍
Power bands are way too far off with that high RPM. I'll stick with the turbo 4cyl, lighter weight and more speed.
M2 is a girls car next to the Porsche.