At the tender age of six, I could identify the make of most cars on Australian roads. By eight, after a brief holiday in the UK, I expanded my repertoire to include Austins, Fiats, Rovers, and Vauxhalls. Cars, it seems, were never just a passing phase for me.
My journey with automobiles began with a Mk IV Golf, a refined machine that I regret parting with. This was followed by a Mercedes GLC, which I found to be a flawed SUV, and a forgettable Ford Focus. I also owned a spacious but dull Passat wagon. A tuned 3.0-litre supercharged Audi brought immense joy with its blunt beauty and speed, but nothing quite prepared me for the experience of driving a Porsche Cayman.
The Cayman Experience
A friend introduced me to the Cayman GTS, and my curiosity was piqued. The motoring press had been effusive in their praise, prompting me to seek out winding roads to test its prowess. After several test drives, I chose the 2.5-litre turbo flat-four engine over the more expensive 4.0-litre six, despite criticism from some quarters.
Convincing my household’s “Director of Finance” that spending six figures on a two-seater was reasonable was no small feat. A brief dalliance with a Lotus Emira followed, but ultimately, I selected a Midnight Blue Cayman S, equipped with features like a mechanical differential, Sport Chrono, sports exhaust, and active suspension.
Driving Dynamics and Practicality
The Cayman S offers a tight cabin and limited storage, yet the firm and supportive 18-way seats stand out. The combination of a front trunk and rear boot provides just enough practicality for everyday needs. On the road, the car’s ability to handle bends with precision is unparalleled, offering a driving experience that 95% of other cars simply cannot match.
The steering feel and braking performance are exceptional. Having recently driven a Ferrari California T, I would choose the Cayman every time, particularly for its superior ride control. Much has been written about the loss of the flat-six engine, despite its return in the GTS model.
Engine Performance and Criticisms
Critics often point to the 2.5-litre engine’s lack of emotional appeal. However, removing the faux Soundaktor fuse and pairing it with the sports exhaust transforms the engine’s character. While the 4.0-litre sounds glorious when pushed to its limits, the 2.5-litre’s variable-vane turbo delivers significant mid-range power with minimal lag, making it more enjoyable on regular roads at legal speeds.
Servicing costs are approximately $700 for a minor service, and warranties can be extended up to 15 years. Tyres are consumable items, and full paint protection film is essential as any loose stone will find its mark.
Looking Ahead
The 2020 Porsche Cayman S represents a culmination of years of automotive passion and exploration. Its blend of performance, practicality, and driving pleasure makes it a standout choice for enthusiasts. As the automotive world continues to evolve, the Cayman S serves as a reminder of the joys of driving, offering a connection between car and driver that is increasingly rare in today’s market.
For those considering a Cayman, the journey promises to be as thrilling as the destination, with each drive offering a new chapter in the story of automotive passion.
