Please say no to drugs and say Yes for Yellow. 1. Yellow retains the highest resale value (google it) 2. The new 911 T was debut in Yellow 3. The 911 GT2-RS that set the ring record is in Yellow 4. The Turbo S Exclusive Series is in Yellow 5. Porsche saffron yellow color option is the most expensive and sophisticated color. 6. RUF Yellow bird 7. Many super/hyper cars are often in Yellow (Venon F5, Ford GT, Hurican Performante, R8, F12 tdf, P1, etc. ) Don’t hate it, embrace it.
I had a Cayman 987 S for 2 years, a Cayman 981 S for 2 years and I currently have a 981 GTS. I have been loaned a 718S Cayman and a 718S Boxster, both for a day, and taken them into the mountains. The 718 chassis is excellent. The 718 steering moves back towards the 987, which was like driving by "thought transference", and better than the 981 (and the 718). The 4 cylinder engine has loads of torque but it has no soul at all. My wife's comment was "it's like driving along in a lawn mower". That's about right. And on most roads, even twisty roads, you never get to use the revs before you have to take your foot off the throttle because of that torque coming in so low down. It is like driving with an on-off switch. So "fun" in a 718 is a few seconds every now and then, instead of continuously with the 6 cylinder 981. I could have had a 718 but I went for one of the last 6 cylinder 981's available instead. My 981 GTS has the sports chassis lowered 2 cm and yes it can be hard day to day. So was the 987. My 981 S had PASM and was easier to live with day to day. But the sports chassis also has some advantages - it is much more stable at speed and at reasonable speeds the car settles down wonderfully anyway (as did the 987). It is also at least 10% better on fuel (which Porsche told e would be the case.). The 981 steers better with the sports chassis as well. The 718 is great car in so many ways, but what a shame about the engine. I agree with Nick the 718 styling is better than the 981, but if you are only about looks and not driving feel then Porsche is not for you anyway. Why doesn't the Cayman sell? Well I am lucky enough to have a 991 911 S as well. On all roads the 911 is an absolute joy. As smooth as silk, and such pleasure with so much driver feedback. But once I get into the mountains (and I am also lucky enough to live near some serious mountains) the 911 is brilliant and the extra power is very nice (400 vs 340) but you do not really need it. It is the immediacy of the lighter mid-engine Cayman that astounds. I could drive it all day in the mountains. On an ordinary road the Cayman does not come alive, so on standard test drives it is outshone by the smoother longer wheelbased higher powered 911. Yes Porsche do also make the 911 deliberately better, so for example for no reason the sports exhaust on the 991 911 sounds better than the sports exhaust on the 981 Cayman. If you do not get a Cayman on some seriously twisty roads you will never find out what the Cayman is all about. This is why despite the lower power it holds its own against more pwerful 911's on circuits; it takes curves, corners and hairpin bends so well. Which the 718 also does extremely well, but overall I found the 718 suspension too soft, too giving, in any mode. It does not quite have that typical Porsche "planted" feel of stabiity. The 718's steering and brakes are better than the 981's. PS: I never wanted a Porsche. I took the 987S Cayman for a test drive for a laugh, simply because I had never driven a Porsche. As we left the dealership my wife said "you've got to go back and buy that car - I have never seen you so happy driving a car." The badge could have been a Ssangyong or a Dacia or anything, so long it felt like that to drive. It put all the fun back into driving. So if you have never driven a Porsche, see if you can wangle a drive somehow, somewhere. Then you will know it not just badge engineering. Even the Panamera is pretty good in the mountains. Even so I have had some quality problems with Porsche. Not as bad as Nick, but the dealer response was disappointing. I never wanted a third Cayman either. But when I took my 981S in for its first service, the Porsche dealer's mechanic crashed it on the test drive .... That's another story.
Sir I am a 718 Cayman GTS owner and yet I agree with everything you said. My plan is to own this car for a couple years and then go for a used 991.2 GT3 or the 718 GT4.
Damn I love Nick, I get fed up when people say my 2010 Cayman S is a poor mans 911, I could afford a 911 even a GT3 but the Cayman felt more of a drivers car in the corners to me and I liked the idea of it being a 2 seater with a ok sized boot and parcel shelf.
+Karina Fletcher: What do you mean by focused? Other than options I believe the only performance difference between the base and S is the 3.4 DFI engine. I'm currently considering bet the S and Base right now so I ask but Nick have kinda convinced me to pick the base.
On this year it has more powerful brakes, harder suspension, more power, more options also, I had mine fully loaded but a manual not PDK exhaust is louder as well :) the differences on newer Cayman isn't a big.
Some would say i'm a fan of WRXs but even I prefer the old flat 6 sound. This sound would be great in the new STI but doesn't fit the Porsche look to me. I'm sure I'll get used to it in time. Call me crazy but honestly I'd rather see an NA 6 cylinder motor with a mild hybrid setup over a turbo setup. Great overview of the 718 and good to hear the S isn't absolutely necessary!
Matt Maran Motoring but you have to admit that it sounds much better in person ... it even sounds better than a subaru sti and i have been on both in fact i have a forester xt
Nothing better than driving my 981 Cayman S each day to and from work. Every time I hit the pedal down the highway it leaves me with a smile. I feel like a kid each time. That's what makes these cars amazing. A big part of that is the sound, which is irreplaceable. So sad that Porsche moved away from the Flat-6. I'll keep mine as long as I can.
Few years later, Porsche noticed the flat 4 is not selling as well as it should so they are now looking to putting a de-tuned GT4 flat six into a new model range above GTS and below GT4.
Loving my 981 Cayman S! I drove the flat 4, but it didn't do anything for me in terms of driving enjoyment. It's fast, very fast, but I've owned fast cars before, I wanted something I got chills from while just starting it up each morning! :D
Nick, I am the proud owner of a Boxster Spider, in addition to a 911-50 and a 2016 Targa 4 GTS, the Spider, despite its simplicity, with the 911S engine and stick shift gearbox, is by far the funniest to drive..
Thanks for the probably the best sound comparison between the two generations of the Caymans I've heard. FWIW, I'll take the old engine over the new one any day of the week and twice on Sundays, no matter how much more torque-rich the new turbo-4 is. I'm not in agreement with you regarding the new "improved" styling upgrades, especially the interior ones, but it's a good looking car regardless, even if that rear isn't as sweet as the 911's. The GT4 is the best looking mid-engined Porsche ever made, though. Its road presence is far beyond the other Caymans, much as the GT3 looks like a different animal on the road when next to its lesser 911 brethren.
Great episode Nick - I have owned a 718 Boxster for 15 months now and just love it . Really looking forward to your next video as your 911 option video was really informative. Keep up the good work !
"Less is sometimes More". I've got a base, 2018 718 Cayman. Only a few options, 6 speed manual, etc. VERY happy with it. Some great suggestions on options here from Nick.
Something I didn't hear mentioned is how the turbo is more efficient at altitude. I'm guessing by now aftermarket exhausts can come close to the flat six sound, if that's a concern.
Enjoyed this video... Learned that the jump up from Cayman Base to S is not significant (except for price) compared to the 911. As a huge fan of the Cayman series Porsche, my heart shattered when I heard they loped two cylinders and added a turbo. The Cayman was a purist/driving pleasure car and the flat-4 turbo surely takes away from that experience. Looking forward to the options video!
Very good review Nick. In some European Countries such as Greece, the annual financial cost because of Taxes are huge between the "old' 981 and the new 718 (base models). The 981 costs 2.043,76 Euros/year and the new 718 costs 851,60 Euros/year. All that because of the diference in cc's and Co2 emissions. So, the new 718 its obviously a welcome improvement!
interesting info... i believe this is the case in China as well for anything over 3.0L there is a huge tax. But i gotta say, diff between 2000 and 800 is not too huge esp if you can afford a 80-100k car.
Mind that we talking more or less for the "same" model (981 and 718). Now, that amount of money that is reserved from the previous 981 model, is in the range of the new 911 Carrera. 911 Carrera = 2.194,05 euros Taxes/Year (in Greece). Clever Porsche Marketing....widening the target group.
Had my 718 S out on the track this weekend. This is the first time I really was able to listen to my 4 banger under serous load. It sounded glorious to me. Different than the flat sixes that were out there, yes, but certainly it was music to my ears. I even had people come up to me and say my car sounded really good. A deep-throated roar on acceleration, and pops, snaps, and crackles when you lift or downshift. I love the sound of the flat six, especially at high revs but I wouldn't trade the difference in sound for 30+ horsepower and 30 foot pounds of torque.
I'm glad I found this video. Haven't driven the 981 yet because they aren't so easy to find in Michigan. But I did drive the 718 just recently and was really impressed. Based on the comments and content in this video, I'll like the 981 even more. Good news for me!!
Most people who grew up mimicking intense sports car exhaust noise expect it. I'm sure a lot of potential Porsche customers will switch to other makes that continue to deliver the sexy sound they expect.
I have both an Aston V12 and a Cayman 981 S. The Aston produces the best sound in the world. I got used to awsome sounding cars. I was pleasantly surprised at the sound of the Cayman S driven hard in Sport mode in Bears mountains NY. I have driven a 718 and I would never give up my 981 for it
The 718 is a much better car and quieter, I know because I’ve actually bought one. True the six sounded better, but it was noisy and sluggish, so a pain when overtaking or when you have a passenger. Road tests are intensely annoying and unhelpful. They may as well be wine reviews.
Hello Nick I’ve just taken my 911.2 manual Carrera in for its first service ie 2 years old already I was give a new boxster S pdk and I just couldn’t believe the performance/handling.. Ps love 💖 your videos they are very honest Regards a guy from the 🇬🇧
Me too. Recently picked up a 2016 Cayman S and it exceeds my expectations every time I get behind the wheel. Get the PDK and Sport Chrono if you can. Since it is the last year of the Naturally Aspirated Flat 6, they will hold their resale value. Damn sexy car and fun to drive. You won't be disappointed!
I went from a Boxster to. Jaguar XKR and now a 911. Interesting yes, back seat groovy for my kids, yet superior mid engine in turns has me thinking I’m going back to Boxster when done with 911.
@@theonlywinner Get the PDK if driver involvement, driver engagement and most importantly driver fun is not on your wish list. My suggestion if you want a proper drivers car, always get the manual if offered. ruclips.net/video/0WUDIGCt8Zs/видео.html The only reason to get the PDK transmission is if you drive in horrible traffic on a daily basis, otherwise get the more involving driver focused manual.
I recently picked up a used 2016 Cayman S with PDK and Sport Chrono. The last year of the Naturally Aspirated Flat 6. It's only a 3.4 liter with 325 HP, but man is it fun to drive. And what everyone says about the exhaust note is true, it is like a symphony. If you are thinking about a newer 718 with the turbo boxer 4, it would be worth your while to find a 2016 Cayman S and take a drive. You won't be disappointed.
At last someone compares an apple with an apple (or in this case lemon with lemon). The six compared to the turbo four is a stark contrast. Thanks Nick
Just FYI, but I think Albert is making fun of you at times... Not sure if you noticed... Ahhh, but the sound of that six... It is half a twelve, so... Only problem with the Cayman is that the top won't go down... If Porsche only made a convertible version... F
Nick, thank you for all your videos! This one in particular is outstanding as it directly applies to my situation (getting a base vs S model). Much appreciated.
Was the proud owner of a 981 CS for 3 years beautiful cars!! Just wanted more power in the end and had no way of doing that with the f6. Thought about moving to a gt4 or 911 but after seeing what tuners were doing with the T4 for considerably less cost it just got me excited. The numbers lm getting now are just absurd with the T4 and everything l missed with my 981. My 718 is actually alot easier to drive at speed and the high amount of torque at low rpm is very satisfying. With its upgraded chasis and lighter weight its truly something special. After 4 years of clubbing, tracking and touring l would buy another 2moro!!
I agree about the 718 engine. I drove one on the course at PEC in Atlanta. It was surprisingly fast as hell but the engine sound is just weird. I wound up buying a 981 CS and I love it. My take on why the Boxster and Cayman don't sell very well is the price. My Cayman S has a few options and had a sticker of around $85k. You can configure a 718 for $100k and the 981 was no different. You mentioned the American market being a surprise and I don't think it is a surprise at all. Whenever I go to a car event, which is not often, there are Mustangs and Corvettes everywhere. You can buy a Corvette Grand Sport for the same money as a Cayman S. You can buy a Z06 for under $100k. I know they are totally different experiences than a Porsche and I've also driven the Corvettes. I don't buy into the old argument about build quality either when talking about the C7 Corvette. That really doesn't hold water anymore. My 2017 Macan GTS at 5 mos old had pieces of the window track falling out and the driver's side window would not close. Then, everything on the PASM system went nuts and basically put it into limp mode. That all happened w/in two weeks. Not to mention the recalls. I do love my 981 CS and I plan to keep it a long time. It is black with 911 Turbo Wheels (very expensive option) and it gets a lot of attention every time I take it out. Doing it over, I'd probably go with a different color since black is a PITA to keep clean and I hate swirls.
Nice honest video comparing the 718 Cayman against the 981 engine/exhaust noise. Fully agree with you... every Cayman is a great Cayman compared to the competition.
The 718 switched to a 4 cylinder to improve the ever tighter regulations on fuel economy. I have gotten up to 36mpg on a road trip with my base Cayman. A mild tune will take some of that PDK lag out and dial in more boost too. Also the throttle by wire is setup for economy too, adding a peddle tuner like a Sprint Booster makes the car much more responsive. Those two mods transforms the car. Yes they sound similar to Subaru's, but as a previous owner of two STi's the 718 has a lot better sound to them.
I drove a 991 carrera s, GTS and a 981 cayman s and GTS, and I would hands down, take the cayman GTS. It feels lighter on it's feet and more willing to rotate and honestly has just the right amount of power. Its' too bad Porsche ruined the cars with turbos, but they will always pay 2nd fiddle to the 911 because of the heritage. Spot on as always Nick.
Hey Nick, question. Do you think that 981 Cayman's will go up in value due to their natural aspiration? Going to buy one for sure, but don't know when to buy along the depreciation curve.
I don't think so but hard to know. If it does it will not be until further down the line. People were expecting the 991.1 NA to hold price as well and that has not happened.
Hi Nick, just want to say thank you for all of your great video content, you definitely helped me decipher a lot of the options and and packages on my new purchase. A nearly $100k 2014 981 Cayman S.
Great video, Nick. The side-to-side comparison with the 981 Cayman is superb. No comparison, actually - the 718 doesn’t even come close sound wise...🤨 I think I’ll take the GTS, thanks!
I recently picked up a 981 S. It's a personal preference, but I like the 981 styling more overall, even if the 718 has a nicer rear. One of the biggest factors is you can get a mostly loaded 718 S for around 85k-90k new, or a fully optioned 981 S CPO for ~65k which is an amazing value in comparison.
Getting a 981 S in a few months. Thoughts on it? I considered the 997.2 CS and 997.1 Turbo but opted for the CS because I felt for me at least that it offered the most overall car.
My main recommendation is to get a well-optioned one. I daily mine so dual climate, heated/ventilated 14-way seats make it so much better to drive all the time. No point in owning a Porsche without sport chrono. I have rear park assist and wish I had front, but it's not a huge deal. PLDS+ gives auto-dimming brights if you drive a lot of country roads at night; most people don't so tbh the light upgrades aren't that important. I couldn't find one I liked that had the sports exhaust, but if you can get one it sounds way better. Also, if you buy from a dealer, they will try to sell you a ~2600 wheel and tire package which is a ripoff, but it's actually two packages combined which is separate cosmetic repair and full replacement packages. For only 1600 you can have unlimited replacement for broken wheels or blown tires for 4 years which is great especially if you get larger wheels. You just have to opt-out of the cosmetic coverage.
Good to know. I was looking for PSE and Sports Chrono, as well a few extras like the sport steering wheel, PCM, Bose and heated seats! Yours sounds like a great spec.
No point in owning any Porsche without sport chrono you say. Dont be daft. Even a bog stock Cayman handles beautifully, so you are definitely off with that comment. I started off with a stock Cayman S, a 987, and owned it for a year before getting a loaded same model car with sport chrono. Yes, it looks nice and trick, and it did give a small improvement to response and handling, but the base car handles so well for everyday driving, that most people would not miss it.
Sven Etien I’ve driven both cars, I own the 6, and an STI, the “herd” says it sounds like shit because it does, deal with it. As for handling you will never be able to tell the difference unless your name is Randy Pobst and your driving both cars back to back at the track
You link to a $3000 aftermarket exhaust as your "it sounds better" argument?!? Oh and I guess the market value of air cooled 911 is a massive over reaction too right?
The other thing Porsche crippled the Cayman and Boxster with, is the tall 1st and 2nd speed gear, and the reasoning is simple: they don't want it accelerating faster than the 911. If it had a proper close ratio manual gearbox, the Cayman and Boxster would be truly magnificent. On the subject of gearing, the reverse gear is also too tall, try reversing up an incline or uphill driveway, you find that you are constantly slipping the clutch. Yes, I know with a sports car like a Porsche, I shouldn't be reversing but driving forwards....lol!
Hi Nick! Thankyou!!! You couldn't have made this at a better time. I've put a deposit down for a Cayman 718 base and have been on the fence about flipping to the S model. Your vid has convinced me to stay with base and go for some options instead (Sport-tex seats 18-way, PASM, sports exhaust) and with manual over PDK. Its about a 14k difference in Canada for the S model so cheers and thank you for this video. I'll be keeping an eye out for the options vid later this week!
Great build! i would stay with the Base as well and get better options esp if you are holding on to the car. If you aren't, you will lose alot on depreciation of options.
+Erin Day - Then check those boxes away! A must-have for me is also ventilated seats, leather dash/door panel with deviated stitching, front/rear parking sensors, back-up camera, PDLS (dynamic lights), Bose stereo. Multi-function wheel w/ heater.
They make a big a mistake at Porsche to kill the Flat six in the Boxster. Nobody here in Germany is buying the Flat four with the sound of an old 1973 Volkswagen 1302 Beetle.Wrong way !
No one in the US is either. Boxster/Cayman sales are down 25% year-on-year through August. (Weirdly PCNA hasn't posted their September 2017 sales figures yet)
Kyle Cronin it's hard to stomach $80-$100k for a turbo 4.... Subaru sti, Honda Civic type R, Ford Focus RS - those are cars that should have turbo 4s. Not a nearly six figure Porsche. That said, it still is an awesome car
Almost bought a 2017 Boxster S with 7k miles for $59k....missed out on it when someone scooped it up under my nose. Kept looking and found a 2013 Boxster S time capsule with albeit different (but more suitable) options, nicer wheels, Brombacher exhaust, a rare color combo and 4,000 miles! Picked it up for $49.9k. Very happy with the decision. Adding the Brombacher tune and filters to get a bit more power and I'm sure it'll be more than satisfying for many years to come. Sure the newer car is an overall better car but I don't feel like we're missing out with the 981. A 718 S with a tune would be a considerably faster...but not necessarily a better overall Porsche experience. The driving experience/sound with the 981 is still simply incredible.
Porsche Cayman RULES. As an owner , I have the 5 speed manual Cayman...NEVER regretted it for a moment. Literally EVERY time I take it out, I get someone making a very pleasant comment on the car. You cannot beat the sound of the flat 6 mid engine car , NOTHING SOUNDS LIKE IT !!!! ENJOY.
Having driven a 718 and 718 S (in Boxster format) the flat 4 is very dull and I just couldn't do it. I'll take any Porsche with an NA flat 6...hence the 986 in the garage.
People forget that the 718 is a fantastic sports car! But Porsche completely forgot about the sound. Its like they just went "Oh shit, we've ran out of money. Oh well, it still drives well and looks cool."
If that`s why they changed the engine, why did they not do that to the 911 ?? No, the reason they did it, and which has turned out to be sales flop, is that they wanted to further differentiate the Cayman/Boxster models from the 911 series. Can you imagine how nice the Cayman would be with a three litre flat six turbo from the 911 ?? Problem is, it would be too nice, and would steal sales from the 911.
@@daithilacha1 Facts lol. Everybody knows the Cayman is the better platform but Porsche has to nerf it so that it won't steal sales from their flagship, the 911, which is unfortunate but it is :(
@@daithilacha1 thats so wrong, if porsche could decide they could keep the flat 6 4ever, but because of regulations they have to downsize otherwise they have to pay huge Bills to the government
I test drove the 718s and this is the one of the reason why I kept my 981s :). The 718 sounded like a Subaru wrx. With my IPD Plenum competition package with GT3 Throttle Body and Fabspeed TrackTek Exhaust upgrades my car now have more HP and Torque than the 718s :) and still enjoy the symphony of the Flat 6.
Not to disagree with Nick here, but from what I've read, the difference between the base and the S is more than just slightly more torque. The larger displacement means that there's actually less boost needed to make the power, and combined with the VTG turbos (only available on the S) it makes the engine feel much less turbo-y. Now, I haven't actually driven an S so I can't say firsthand, but that's what I've read.
Kyle Cronin - Good point there. You will have to determine whether the additional 12k is worth it. If you are keeping this car long-term, use that money on options that matters to you.
It's not a bad sound, just sounds like a four-pot. The base isn't even a VNT turbo so feels laggy. The problem is they are too expensive for the price. If they came in a decent spec for £50-60K. Instead of a lease deal, I put the deposit towards 987.2 Boxster, PDK, PASM, 19 inch Sport Design alloys, Sports Seat Plus, cornering xenons and Nav with iPhone. I had the PSE and Sports Chrono retrofitted. I had the wheels painted Satin Platinum and DSC v1 PASM controller fitted. OPC gave two years Porsche approved warranty. It's been good fun, did half a day at Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone, this year I'm off to days driving at Brands Hatch Indy Circuit with an instructor. I've added Pilots Sport 4S non N rated, I got the N rated Bridgestones in the garage for the warranty...Tbh honest I wouldn't get one of the four potters, the boxer six with a PSE sounds like an exotic sports car worthy of the Porsche name...
The problem with the sound is major in a car like this. Even with aftermarket exhaust it sounds crappy. I just don't get this forced downsizing in sports cars. In a macan or a cayenne it's perfectly acceptable, sound is not a major part in the whole experience of driving those cars. They should have used the 2.5 audi 5 cylinder at least. I get that it's not a boxer but it sounds acceptable
Thanks for the exhaust clip. The new cayman s sounds worse than my 17' sti. What a shame. Value wise I think the 987.2 is the sweet spot for the used cayman market. If you can find one
I have 2008 Cayman S, 2012 Cayman R, 2015 Carrera and 2018 718 Cayman S, the acceleration and handle of the 2018 Cayman S is the best. The PDK is so fast and precise. I am NOT regret to replace the 2015 Carrera with the 2018 718 Cayman S, especially it is US$35,000 cheaper. The 4 cylinder turbo charge engine is so smooth with NO turbo lag at all. 350 horsepower is plenty for a 3100 lb car. I sincerely believe 0 - 60 mph can be done in 3.8 sec. with the sport plus setting, launch control and PDK!!
Congrats..I have test driven the car and it does have some lag. Plus almost every review online says that the car has some minor lags. While the car doesn't sound worse than the 981 it does offer alot advantages over the 981.
I love speed yellow and like the racing yellow. I own a 987 in speed yellow :-). I'm not colour blind, just makes me smile. Plus I live in a damp dreary uk where everyone has accountant-racing-grey. Dull as dishwater. Or if going "exciting" over here people think white. I've had 3 people desperate to buy it off me in the first 4 weeks I owned it. Maybe their white canes were hidden around the corner :-)))
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
![Porsche Cayman 981 vs Cayman S: Which Is Better? [Review]](/img/1.gif)
How unfortunate, the American's with Disabilities Act doesn't protect blind people from getting tricked into buying yellow cars.
Well, you know, they didn't protect Nick from buying a car...
Sounds about right
Please say no to drugs and say Yes for Yellow.
1. Yellow retains the highest resale value (google it)
2. The new 911 T was debut in Yellow
3. The 911 GT2-RS that set the ring record is in Yellow
4. The Turbo S Exclusive Series is in Yellow
5. Porsche saffron yellow color option is the most expensive and sophisticated color.
6. RUF Yellow bird
7. Many super/hyper cars are often in Yellow (Venon F5, Ford GT, Hurican Performante, R8, F12 tdf, P1, etc. )
Don’t hate it, embrace it.
8. It's a free paint option.
Fha Q !! I actually have a 718 Boxster in Racing Yellow so yeah, I give you the finger .i.
I had a Cayman 987 S for 2 years, a Cayman 981 S for 2 years and I currently have a 981 GTS. I have been loaned a 718S Cayman and a 718S Boxster, both for a day, and taken them into the mountains. The 718 chassis is excellent. The 718 steering moves back towards the 987, which was like driving by "thought transference", and better than the 981 (and the 718). The 4 cylinder engine has loads of torque but it has no soul at all. My wife's comment was "it's like driving along in a lawn mower". That's about right. And on most roads, even twisty roads, you never get to use the revs before you have to take your foot off the throttle because of that torque coming in so low down. It is like driving with an on-off switch. So "fun" in a 718 is a few seconds every now and then, instead of continuously with the 6 cylinder 981. I could have had a 718 but I went for one of the last 6 cylinder 981's available instead. My 981 GTS has the sports chassis lowered 2 cm and yes it can be hard day to day. So was the 987. My 981 S had PASM and was easier to live with day to day. But the sports chassis also has some advantages - it is much more stable at speed and at reasonable speeds the car settles down wonderfully anyway (as did the 987). It is also at least 10% better on fuel (which Porsche told e would be the case.). The 981 steers better with the sports chassis as well. The 718 is great car in so many ways, but what a shame about the engine. I agree with Nick the 718 styling is better than the 981, but if you are only about looks and not driving feel then Porsche is not for you anyway.
Why doesn't the Cayman sell? Well I am lucky enough to have a 991 911 S as well. On all roads the 911 is an absolute joy. As smooth as silk, and such pleasure with so much driver feedback. But once I get into the mountains (and I am also lucky enough to live near some serious mountains) the 911 is brilliant and the extra power is very nice (400 vs 340) but you do not really need it. It is the immediacy of the lighter mid-engine Cayman that astounds. I could drive it all day in the mountains. On an ordinary road the Cayman does not come alive, so on standard test drives it is outshone by the smoother longer wheelbased higher powered 911. Yes Porsche do also make the 911 deliberately better, so for example for no reason the sports exhaust on the 991 911 sounds better than the sports exhaust on the 981 Cayman. If you do not get a Cayman on some seriously twisty roads you will never find out what the Cayman is all about. This is why despite the lower power it holds its own against more pwerful 911's on circuits; it takes curves, corners and hairpin bends so well. Which the 718 also does extremely well, but overall I found the 718 suspension too soft, too giving, in any mode. It does not quite have that typical Porsche "planted" feel of stabiity. The 718's steering and brakes are better than the 981's.
PS: I never wanted a Porsche. I took the 987S Cayman for a test drive for a laugh, simply because I had never driven a Porsche. As we left the dealership my wife said "you've got to go back and buy that car - I have never seen you so happy driving a car." The badge could have been a Ssangyong or a Dacia or anything, so long it felt like that to drive. It put all the fun back into driving. So if you have never driven a Porsche, see if you can wangle a drive somehow, somewhere. Then you will know it not just badge engineering. Even the Panamera is pretty good in the mountains. Even so I have had some quality problems with Porsche. Not as bad as Nick, but the dealer response was disappointing. I never wanted a third Cayman either. But when I took my 981S in for its first service, the Porsche dealer's mechanic crashed it on the test drive .... That's another story.
thank you for taking time to write this, very interesting as I'm planning to buy my first Porsche soon (Cayman S 981)
Sir I am a 718 Cayman GTS owner and yet I agree with everything you said. My plan is to own this car for a couple years and then go for a used 991.2 GT3 or the 718 GT4.
So many Caymans, this is literally my dream video.
Velaryon
LMAO 😂 I thought your comment said "So many GAYmans, this is literally my dream video"
@@JundaComputersGmbH😂😂
The flat 6 sound is raspy and lovely. Would go F6 for the sound alone.
Flat six - no contest on sound.
Best review of the 718 so far! Appreciate the negatives and the reality check on the diff between S and base.
Damn I love Nick, I get fed up when people say my 2010 Cayman S is a poor mans 911, I could afford a 911 even a GT3 but the Cayman felt more of a drivers car in the corners to me and I liked the idea of it being a 2 seater with a ok sized boot and parcel shelf.
Karina Fletcher Doesn’t matter, you’re not a poor man. 😉
+Karina Fletcher : did you try out the 987.2 Cayman Base before getting the Cayman S?
Yes, I preferred the S model as it's much more focused :)
+Karina Fletcher: What do you mean by focused? Other than options I believe the only performance difference between the base and S is the 3.4 DFI engine. I'm currently considering bet the S and Base right now so I ask but Nick have kinda convinced me to pick the base.
On this year it has more powerful brakes, harder suspension, more power, more options also, I had mine fully loaded but a manual not PDK exhaust is louder as well :) the differences on newer Cayman isn't a big.
Yes 718 doesn’t sound as nice as the 6s but it wouldn’t stop me buying one
you produce amazing videos. thanks for all the time and effort you put into them. 5 stars.
Thank you Drew
Some would say i'm a fan of WRXs but even I prefer the old flat 6 sound. This sound would be great in the new STI but doesn't fit the Porsche look to me. I'm sure I'll get used to it in time. Call me crazy but honestly I'd rather see an NA 6 cylinder motor with a mild hybrid setup over a turbo setup. Great overview of the 718 and good to hear the S isn't absolutely necessary!
Matt Maran Motoring but you have to admit that it sounds much better in person ... it even sounds better than a subaru sti and i have been on both in fact i have a forester xt
Matt Maran Motoring gt4 Cayman
Maran Motori
gt4 Cayman
Gt4
i used to have 987.2 S for 5 years and the engine sound was absolutely fantastic. it was like listening to a symphony, every time you hit over 4k rpm.
Nothing better than driving my 981 Cayman S each day to and from work. Every time I hit the pedal down the highway it leaves me with a smile. I feel like a kid each time. That's what makes these cars amazing. A big part of that is the sound, which is irreplaceable. So sad that Porsche moved away from the Flat-6. I'll keep mine as long as I can.
Few years later, Porsche noticed the flat 4 is not selling as well as it should so they are now looking to putting a de-tuned GT4 flat six into a new model range above GTS and below GT4.
Loving my 981 Cayman S! I drove the flat 4, but it didn't do anything for me in terms of driving enjoyment. It's fast, very fast, but I've owned fast cars before, I wanted something I got chills from while just starting it up each morning! :D
Yes, I feel the same way about my Cayman S. And they are a good looking car too!
Overall drop in sales after the 4 cylinder engine introduction: 20% for Boxster and 42% for the Cayman.
Damn that's a big drop. Source?
Porsche/German Car Magazine (serious)
Wow that's serious.
That downsizing was not on Porsches wishlist, but they had to fulfill some crazy emission standards.
Can we do a petition to remove sports cars from emission regulations.
This video (specifically, 2:43 ) drove me to buy a '13 Boxster S. Man, what a car...and it sounds even better in person!
Nick, I am the proud owner of a Boxster Spider, in addition to a 911-50 and a 2016 Targa 4 GTS, the Spider, despite its simplicity, with the 911S engine and stick shift gearbox, is by far the funniest to drive..
Thanks for the probably the best sound comparison between the two generations of the Caymans I've heard. FWIW, I'll take the old engine over the new one any day of the week and twice on Sundays, no matter how much more torque-rich the new turbo-4 is. I'm not in agreement with you regarding the new "improved" styling upgrades, especially the interior ones, but it's a good looking car regardless, even if that rear isn't as sweet as the 911's. The GT4 is the best looking mid-engined Porsche ever made, though. Its road presence is far beyond the other Caymans, much as the GT3 looks like a different animal on the road when next to its lesser 911 brethren.
Great episode Nick - I have owned a 718 Boxster for 15 months now and just love it . Really looking forward to your next video as your 911 option video was really informative. Keep up the good work !
Well done, Nick. One of the most interesting videos yet. It's great to see both new models and the last model compared.
"Less is sometimes More". I've got a base, 2018 718 Cayman. Only a few options, 6 speed manual, etc. VERY happy with it. Some great suggestions on options here from Nick.
Something I didn't hear mentioned is how the turbo is more efficient at altitude. I'm guessing by now aftermarket exhausts can come close to the flat six sound, if that's a concern.
Enjoyed this video... Learned that the jump up from Cayman Base to S is not significant (except for price) compared to the 911. As a huge fan of the Cayman series Porsche, my heart shattered when I heard they loped two cylinders and added a turbo. The Cayman was a purist/driving pleasure car and the flat-4 turbo surely takes away from that experience. Looking forward to the options video!
Racing yellow is the best color Nick… my friend just bought this exact car in “yes” Racing Yellow to match my Racing Yellow 911 😂😂😂
Very good review Nick.
In some European Countries such as Greece, the annual financial cost because of Taxes are huge between the "old' 981 and the new 718 (base models).
The 981 costs 2.043,76 Euros/year and the new 718 costs 851,60 Euros/year. All that because of the diference in cc's and Co2 emissions. So, the new 718 its obviously a welcome improvement!
interesting info... i believe this is the case in China as well for anything over 3.0L there is a huge tax. But i gotta say, diff between 2000 and 800 is not too huge esp if you can afford a 80-100k car.
Mind that we talking more or less for the "same" model (981 and 718). Now, that amount of money that is reserved from the previous 981 model, is in the range of the new 911 Carrera.
911 Carrera = 2.194,05 euros Taxes/Year (in Greece).
Clever Porsche Marketing....widening the target group.
You're right. The sound isn't close. I bet it drives great though.
And that yellow is gorgeous! 😃
Had my 718 S out on the track this weekend. This is the first time I really was able to listen to my 4 banger under serous load. It sounded glorious to me. Different than the flat sixes that were out there, yes, but certainly it was music to my ears. I even had people come up to me and say my car sounded really good. A deep-throated roar on acceleration, and pops, snaps, and crackles when you lift or downshift. I love the sound of the flat six, especially at high revs but I wouldn't trade the difference in sound for 30+ horsepower and 30 foot pounds of torque.
2:42 My God, those 1st gear high revs are the thing I love very much in Porsche for a very long time now.
That 981 flat 6 sounds gorgeous compared with that horrible, tinny, turbo 4
Love this rising yellow Porsche Cayman
My dream car is a base 718 Cayman with a manual transmission in Miami Blue. Great video Nick!
Even on the 981S Cayman, illuminated vanity mirrors on the sun visors are available only as part of an optional upgraded light package.
I'm glad I found this video. Haven't driven the 981 yet because they aren't so easy to find in Michigan. But I did drive the 718 just recently and was really impressed. Based on the comments and content in this video, I'll like the 981 even more. Good news for me!!
Huge difference in sound. 981 for the easy win :)
Most people who grew up mimicking intense sports car exhaust noise expect it. I'm sure a lot of potential Porsche customers will switch to other makes that continue to deliver the sexy sound they expect.
I have both an Aston V12 and a Cayman 981 S. The Aston produces the best sound in the world. I got used to awsome sounding cars. I was pleasantly surprised at the sound of the Cayman S driven hard in Sport mode in Bears mountains NY. I have driven a 718 and I would never give up my 981 for it
The 718 is a much better car and quieter, I know because I’ve actually bought one.
True the six sounded better, but it was noisy and sluggish, so a pain when overtaking or when you have a passenger.
Road tests are intensely annoying and unhelpful. They may as well be wine reviews.
Hello Nick
I’ve just taken my 911.2 manual Carrera in for its first service ie 2 years old already
I was give a new boxster S pdk and I just couldn’t believe the performance/handling..
Ps love 💖 your videos they are very honest
Regards a guy from the 🇬🇧
Always wanted a 911, so went out and bought a 981 Cayman S 😂
Now I don't want a 911 anymore! 😜
Me too. Recently picked up a 2016 Cayman S and it exceeds my expectations every time I get behind the wheel. Get the PDK and Sport Chrono if you can. Since it is the last year of the Naturally Aspirated Flat 6, they will hold their resale value. Damn sexy car and fun to drive. You won't be disappointed!
I went from a Boxster to. Jaguar XKR and now a 911. Interesting yes, back seat groovy for my kids, yet superior mid engine in turns has me thinking I’m going back to Boxster when done with 911.
I had a 997 4S. Sold it and bought a 2014 Cayman S. I will never worry about buying another 911. Cayman is phenomenal
@@theonlywinner
Get the PDK if driver involvement, driver engagement and most importantly driver fun is not on your wish list.
My suggestion if you want a proper drivers car, always get the manual if offered.
ruclips.net/video/0WUDIGCt8Zs/видео.html
The only reason to get the PDK transmission is if you drive in horrible traffic on a daily basis, otherwise get the more involving driver focused manual.
Good video Nick, it's nice to hear people talk about the base models! It's hard to find.
I recently picked up a used 2016 Cayman S with PDK and Sport Chrono. The last year of the Naturally Aspirated Flat 6. It's only a 3.4 liter with 325 HP, but man is it fun to drive. And what everyone says about the exhaust note is true, it is like a symphony. If you are thinking about a newer 718 with the turbo boxer 4, it would be worth your while to find a 2016 Cayman S and take a drive. You won't be disappointed.
The 981 just sounds so much more like a sports car!
At last someone compares an apple with an apple (or in this case lemon with lemon). The six compared to the turbo four is a stark contrast. Thanks Nick
Just FYI, but I think Albert is making fun of you at times... Not sure if you noticed...
Ahhh, but the sound of that six... It is half a twelve, so... Only problem with the Cayman is that the top won't go down... If Porsche only made a convertible version... F
He is not as bad as William...
Heidi and Franny's Garage They do make a convertible; it's just called the Boxster.
Demian Reith It was a joke...
A Cayman without roof is (almost the same) as a Boxster!
Do you know anyting about Porsche??
Martijn Langeveld Yes, they have the same styling compared to the last-generation models, and they share the same platform and the same engine.
I do not know why, but I like the sound of the 2.5 T more than the F6. Sounds a lot like a mini V8 turbo.
It’s also way faster than the NA 3.4l or 2.7l engines 😂
You dont buy a Cayman to go the fastest. A 10 grand golf R goes faster @@Manis-World
@@PeterNorthCumshotLegend 🤣What?
There’s no such thing as a “$10k” Golf R and have yet to see one keep up either
...best 718 review on youtube!
Nick, thank you for all your videos! This one in particular is outstanding as it directly applies to my situation (getting a base vs S model). Much appreciated.
racing yellow is a great standout color! IF my Type R came in Phoenix yellow, I would have gotten it in that color
Was the proud owner of a 981 CS for 3 years beautiful cars!! Just wanted more power in the end and had no way of doing that with the f6. Thought about moving to a gt4 or 911 but after seeing what tuners were doing with the T4 for considerably less cost it just got me excited. The numbers lm getting now are just absurd with the T4 and everything l missed with my 981. My 718 is actually alot easier to drive at speed and the high amount of torque at low rpm is very satisfying. With its upgraded chasis and lighter weight its truly something special. After 4 years of clubbing, tracking and touring l would buy another 2moro!!
I agree about the 718 engine. I drove one on the course at PEC in Atlanta. It was surprisingly fast as hell but the engine sound is just weird. I wound up buying a 981 CS and I love it.
My take on why the Boxster and Cayman don't sell very well is the price. My Cayman S has a few options and had a sticker of around $85k. You can configure a 718 for $100k and the 981 was no different. You mentioned the American market being a surprise and I don't think it is a surprise at all. Whenever I go to a car event, which is not often, there are Mustangs and Corvettes everywhere. You can buy a Corvette Grand Sport for the same money as a Cayman S. You can buy a Z06 for under $100k. I know they are totally different experiences than a Porsche and I've also driven the Corvettes. I don't buy into the old argument about build quality either when talking about the C7 Corvette. That really doesn't hold water anymore. My 2017 Macan GTS at 5 mos old had pieces of the window track falling out and the driver's side window would not close. Then, everything on the PASM system went nuts and basically put it into limp mode. That all happened w/in two weeks. Not to mention the recalls.
I do love my 981 CS and I plan to keep it a long time. It is black with 911 Turbo Wheels (very expensive option) and it gets a lot of attention every time I take it out. Doing it over, I'd probably go with a different color since black is a PITA to keep clean and I hate swirls.
Yellow.... a solid 3/10...! 😇 Thx Nick for, again, a Porsche vid. Cheers, Irwin
Sven Etien which track boss?
Yellow is wrong
that yellow looks awesome! :D
Excellent review Nick and thanks for the comparisons. I am looking forward to the options video.
Nice honest video comparing the 718 Cayman against the 981 engine/exhaust noise. Fully agree with you... every Cayman is a great Cayman compared to the competition.
56k for a new Porsche is unbelievable. The same thing here in Australia is well over 100k. Aaargh, so sick of getting screwed!
Stedy at least it’s better than Thailand.
Base 718 cayman cost $200k here.
Stedy yeah Aus sucks man, we don’t even get discounts on electric cars
The 718 switched to a 4 cylinder to improve the ever tighter regulations on fuel economy. I have gotten up to 36mpg on a road trip with my base Cayman. A mild tune will take some of that PDK lag out and dial in more boost too. Also the throttle by wire is setup for economy too, adding a peddle tuner like a Sprint Booster makes the car much more responsive. Those two mods transforms the car. Yes they sound similar to Subaru's, but as a previous owner of two STi's the 718 has a lot better sound to them.
Can you make a extended review of that base black 718 cayman it would be interesting.
Yes please. That configuration is obviously the most attainable.
More 718 videos needed Nick.
Boxster 981 GTS, baby! 24 hours to collection!
I drove a 991 carrera s, GTS and a 981 cayman s and GTS, and I would hands down, take the cayman GTS. It feels lighter on it's feet and more willing to rotate and honestly has just the right amount of power. Its' too bad Porsche ruined the cars with turbos, but they will always pay 2nd fiddle to the 911 because of the heritage. Spot on as always Nick.
Hey Nick, question. Do you think that 981 Cayman's will go up in value due to their natural aspiration? Going to buy one for sure, but don't know when to buy along the depreciation curve.
I don't think so but hard to know. If it does it will not be until further down the line. People were expecting the 991.1 NA to hold price as well and that has not happened.
@@NickMurray update after 2 years?
@@martinc4251 update is that porsche bring back 4.0 flat 6 (downgraded gt4 engine) to cayman gts
Hi Nick, just want to say thank you for all of your great video content, you definitely helped me decipher a lot of the options and and packages on my new purchase. A nearly $100k 2014
981 Cayman S.
Great video, Nick. The side-to-side comparison with the 981 Cayman is superb. No comparison, actually - the 718 doesn’t even come close sound wise...🤨 I think I’ll take the GTS, thanks!
Nick, you should have made a sound comparison from inside the car as well.. just because that's where we are most of the time when we driving.
I recently picked up a 981 S. It's a personal preference, but I like the 981 styling more overall, even if the 718 has a nicer rear. One of the biggest factors is you can get a mostly loaded 718 S for around 85k-90k new, or a fully optioned 981 S CPO for ~65k which is an amazing value in comparison.
Getting a 981 S in a few months. Thoughts on it? I considered the 997.2 CS and 997.1 Turbo but opted for the CS because I felt for me at least that it offered the most overall car.
My main recommendation is to get a well-optioned one. I daily mine so dual climate, heated/ventilated 14-way seats make it so much better to drive all the time. No point in owning a Porsche without sport chrono. I have rear park assist and wish I had front, but it's not a huge deal. PLDS+ gives auto-dimming brights if you drive a lot of country roads at night; most people don't so tbh the light upgrades aren't that important. I couldn't find one I liked that had the sports exhaust, but if you can get one it sounds way better.
Also, if you buy from a dealer, they will try to sell you a ~2600 wheel and tire package which is a ripoff, but it's actually two packages combined which is separate cosmetic repair and full replacement packages. For only 1600 you can have unlimited replacement for broken wheels or blown tires for 4 years which is great especially if you get larger wheels. You just have to opt-out of the cosmetic coverage.
Good to know. I was looking for PSE and Sports Chrono, as well a few extras like the sport steering wheel, PCM, Bose and heated seats! Yours sounds like a great spec.
No point in owning any Porsche without sport chrono you say. Dont be daft. Even a bog stock Cayman handles beautifully, so you are definitely off with that comment. I started off with a stock Cayman S, a 987, and owned it for a year before getting a loaded same model car with sport chrono. Yes, it looks nice and trick, and it did give a small improvement to response and handling, but the base car handles so well for everyday driving, that most people would not miss it.
Really love new Cayman styling. It now looks like a baby 918 especially in silver color.
Sooooooo happy I was lucky enough to get the 6 when I did
Sven Etien Its okay I don’t need to race, I’m happy to listen to the sweet sweet songs of the flat 6
Sven Etien Sounds to me like you’re trying to justify your purchase of an overpriced STI with tenths of seconds on a race no one would care about.
Sven Etien I’ve driven both cars, I own the 6, and an STI, the “herd” says it sounds like shit because it does, deal with it. As for handling you will never be able to tell the difference unless your name is Randy Pobst and your driving both cars back to back at the track
You link to a $3000 aftermarket exhaust as your "it sounds better" argument?!? Oh and I guess the market value of air cooled 911 is a massive over reaction too right?
The other thing Porsche crippled the Cayman and Boxster with, is the tall 1st and 2nd speed gear, and the reasoning is simple: they don't want it accelerating faster than the 911. If it had a proper close ratio manual gearbox, the Cayman and Boxster would be truly magnificent. On the subject of gearing, the reverse gear is also too tall, try reversing up an incline or uphill driveway, you find that you are constantly slipping the clutch. Yes, I know with a sports car like a Porsche, I shouldn't be reversing but driving forwards....lol!
Hi Nick! Thankyou!!! You couldn't have made this at a better time. I've put a deposit down for a Cayman 718 base and have been on the fence about flipping to the S model. Your vid has convinced me to stay with base and go for some options instead (Sport-tex seats 18-way, PASM, sports exhaust) and with manual over PDK. Its about a 14k difference in Canada for the S model so cheers and thank you for this video. I'll be keeping an eye out for the options vid later this week!
Great build! i would stay with the Base as well and get better options esp if you are holding on to the car. If you aren't, you will lose alot on depreciation of options.
This'll be a keeper. Bout '10 years
+Erin Day - Then check those boxes away! A must-have for me is also ventilated seats, leather dash/door panel with deviated stitching, front/rear parking sensors, back-up camera, PDLS (dynamic lights), Bose stereo. Multi-function wheel w/ heater.
Good choice. The S isn’t worth the extra. Load up the base instead!
That 4 cylinder sound, it reminds me, I have to mow the grass. Oh how I miss that flat 6!
thanks nick. definitely you kind of instructed me about my purchase
They make a big a mistake at Porsche to kill the Flat six in the Boxster. Nobody here in Germany is buying the Flat four with the sound of an old 1973 Volkswagen 1302 Beetle.Wrong way !
No one in the US is either. Boxster/Cayman sales are down 25% year-on-year through August. (Weirdly PCNA hasn't posted their September 2017 sales figures yet)
Kyle Cronin it's hard to stomach $80-$100k for a turbo 4.... Subaru sti, Honda Civic type R, Ford Focus RS - those are cars that should have turbo 4s. Not a nearly six figure Porsche. That said, it still is an awesome car
especially when that kind of money buys you a Z06 or ZR1...
Last time I was this early Nick was still smashing his vanity mirror.
LOL! And I'm still waiting for part 2 of things BMW M owners should know!
Nick, that yellow suits you. Time to wrap the 991.2!
Say no to drugs
Almost bought a 2017 Boxster S with 7k miles for $59k....missed out on it when someone scooped it up under my nose. Kept looking and found a 2013 Boxster S time capsule with albeit different (but more suitable) options, nicer wheels, Brombacher exhaust, a rare color combo and 4,000 miles! Picked it up for $49.9k. Very happy with the decision. Adding the Brombacher tune and filters to get a bit more power and I'm sure it'll be more than satisfying for many years to come. Sure the newer car is an overall better car but I don't feel like we're missing out with the 981. A 718 S with a tune would be a considerably faster...but not necessarily a better overall Porsche experience. The driving experience/sound with the 981 is still simply incredible.
Great and accurate review ! (Proud 981 owner 😀)
I would not trade my 981 GTS with any 718. That thing sounds soulless
Same here
nick thank you so much for the infor on the cayman i really need advise before buying keep putting out more awesome video
You have a mistake 1:24, it should be 981 instead of 891. not that you can correct it but still.
Yes my brain is broken :)
Nick Murray you have that too? I hate lysdexia...
+toko boxua - Thank you. You make the world a better place.
considering Nick has a 4th grade reading level i think he did a fine job!
good job Nick!
Heidi and Franny's Garage DYSLEXICS UNTIE!
Had a 981S. Had a 781S on order. Loved the WAY it drove. Couldn't live with the noise. Cancelled the order!
Porsche Cayman RULES. As an owner , I have the 5 speed manual Cayman...NEVER regretted it for a moment. Literally EVERY time I take it out, I get someone making a very pleasant comment on the car. You cannot beat the sound of the flat 6 mid engine car , NOTHING SOUNDS LIKE IT !!!! ENJOY.
I just fell out of my chair lol! I have a 993 and am looking at Boxsters-ugggg, I think I’ll be looking for the 981S lol
Having driven a 718 and 718 S (in Boxster format) the flat 4 is very dull and I just couldn't do it. I'll take any Porsche with an NA flat 6...hence the 986 in the garage.
Gayrage
Nick Porsche have to pay you a fortune your videos a outstanding
People forget that the 718 is a fantastic sports car! But Porsche completely forgot about the sound. Its like they just went "Oh shit, we've ran out of money. Oh well, it still drives well and looks cool."
W-James they didn't forget. They did that on purpose...😂 6 cylinder NA car's won't be as efficient on test cycles. That's all it is.
If that`s why they changed the engine, why did they not do that to the 911 ?? No, the reason they did it, and which has turned out to be sales flop, is that they wanted to further differentiate the Cayman/Boxster models from the 911 series. Can you imagine how nice the Cayman would be with a three litre flat six turbo from the 911 ?? Problem is, it would be too nice, and would steal sales from the 911.
@@daithilacha1 Facts lol. Everybody knows the Cayman is the better platform but Porsche has to nerf it so that it won't steal sales from their flagship, the 911, which is unfortunate but it is :(
@@WitchYuki22 completly wrong porsche has to downsize because of the friggin Eu
@@daithilacha1 thats so wrong, if porsche could decide they could keep the flat 6 4ever, but because of regulations they have to downsize otherwise they have to pay huge Bills to the government
I test drove the 718s and this is the one of the reason why I kept my 981s :). The 718 sounded like a Subaru wrx. With my IPD Plenum competition package with GT3 Throttle Body and Fabspeed TrackTek Exhaust upgrades my car now have more HP and Torque than the 718s :) and still enjoy the symphony of the Flat 6.
Very informative, thank you. I really thought that I "needed" an 'S' model. You've explained it well enough that I can make a smarter buying decision.
Not to disagree with Nick here, but from what I've read, the difference between the base and the S is more than just slightly more torque. The larger displacement means that there's actually less boost needed to make the power, and combined with the VTG turbos (only available on the S) it makes the engine feel much less turbo-y. Now, I haven't actually driven an S so I can't say firsthand, but that's what I've read.
Kyle Cronin - Good point there. You will have to determine whether the additional 12k is worth it. If you are keeping this car long-term, use that money on options that matters to you.
Drove both at Pocono Racetrack, the 718 Cayman S I drove was also yellow
Great video. I’m debating on 981 or 718.
It's not a bad sound, just sounds like a four-pot. The base isn't even a VNT turbo so feels laggy. The problem is they are too expensive for the price. If they came in a decent spec for £50-60K. Instead of a lease deal, I put the deposit towards 987.2 Boxster, PDK, PASM, 19 inch Sport Design alloys, Sports Seat Plus, cornering xenons and Nav with iPhone. I had the PSE and Sports Chrono retrofitted. I had the wheels painted Satin Platinum and DSC v1 PASM controller fitted. OPC gave two years Porsche approved warranty. It's been good fun, did half a day at Porsche Experience Centre at Silverstone, this year I'm off to days driving at Brands Hatch Indy Circuit with an instructor. I've added Pilots Sport 4S non N rated, I got the N rated Bridgestones in the garage for the warranty...Tbh honest I wouldn't get one of the four potters, the boxer six with a PSE sounds like an exotic sports car worthy of the Porsche name...
I love the Cayman and Cayman S. I have a Panamera 4 and will be purchasing a new addition to the family with a Cayman S. :)
LOve the Yellow Cayman!
The problem with the sound is major in a car like this. Even with aftermarket exhaust it sounds crappy. I just don't get this forced downsizing in sports cars. In a macan or a cayenne it's perfectly acceptable, sound is not a major part in the whole experience of driving those cars. They should have used the 2.5 audi 5 cylinder at least. I get that it's not a boxer but it sounds acceptable
That engine sounds like shit. Always has always will. Just because its 'popular' doesnt mean it doesnt sound like total audi shit.
Thanks for the exhaust clip. The new cayman s sounds worse than my 17' sti. What a shame. Value wise I think the 987.2 is the sweet spot for the used cayman market. If you can find one
A few on Carmax atm.
Great review as always Nick!!!
Cayman base for $56,000? Those days are gone. It's May 2023 and the price starts at $68,300.
The used market is the way to go these days if you want to find a good condition Cayman S manual 🔥
I thought the S variant also had the variable-geometry turbo when the standard Boxster/Cayman doesn't.
I have 2008 Cayman S, 2012 Cayman R, 2015 Carrera and 2018 718 Cayman S, the acceleration and handle of the 2018 Cayman S is the best. The PDK is so fast and precise. I am NOT regret to replace the 2015 Carrera with the 2018 718 Cayman S, especially it is US$35,000 cheaper. The 4 cylinder turbo charge engine is so smooth with NO turbo lag at all. 350 horsepower is plenty for a 3100 lb car. I sincerely believe 0 - 60 mph can be done in 3.8 sec. with the sport plus setting, launch control and PDK!!
Congrats..I have test driven the car and it does have some lag. Plus almost every review online says that the car has some minor lags. While the car doesn't sound worse than the 981 it does offer alot advantages over the 981.
This is a fantastic review. Very through!
Nick I love the videos. Cayman is great but there is just something special about the 911. I would always buy a 911, just because.
Obtuse
Like a triangle? I’m confused 😛
Not sure that’s a 891 Cayman S, like it says it is at 1:27. I don’t recall that model.
I actually like the yellow cayman lol. See to many blacks and silvers
Love the looks of these things
What's wrong with Porsche's Racing Yellow ? I like this color 💛
TheRambest you either get why it's a problem or you love it. It is a problem...
TheRambest say no to drugs
I love speed yellow and like the racing yellow. I own a 987 in speed yellow :-). I'm not colour blind, just makes me smile. Plus I live in a damp dreary uk where everyone has accountant-racing-grey. Dull as dishwater. Or if going "exciting" over here people think white. I've had 3 people desperate to buy it off me in the first 4 weeks I owned it. Maybe their white canes were hidden around the corner :-)))
Could not agree that people are missing out on the Boxster/cayman
Nick the S models have a diferent turbo with vts like 911.
best Porsche salesman there ever is...