Taking things to the next level.
Since it was first introduced, the Porsche Cayman has been sort of held back. Its older sibling, the 911, has been the pride and joy of the German automaker and nothing is was going to take that way – especially a young upstart with a mid-mounted engine. For years, the Cayman has been criticized for being “held back” for fears of toppling the mighty 911. Now that’s starting to change with the new Porsche Cayman GT4 – the most performance-oriented, road-going Cayman ever made.
The new Porsche Cayman GT4 instantly becomes the benchmark for sports cars in its segment thanks to its track-focused dynamics and go-fast goodies borrowed from its older brother, the 911. A 7:40 Nürburgring North Loop time quickly turns heads as well.
Driving dynamics were a focus throughout the development of the new Porsche Cayman GT4, especially with the optimal placement of its engine. Instead of the smaller, less powerful flat-six units found in the standard Caymans, the GT4 gets a 3.8-liter flat-six that’s derived from the 911 Carrera S and spits out 385 horsepower at 7,400 RPM and 310 lb-ft. of torque from 4,750 to 6,000 RPM. That’s 45 horsepower and 30 lb-ft. of torque more than the Cayman GTS.
Ensuring that the Porsche Cayman GT4 is a true driver’s car is the six-speed manual gearbox that is the only available way to change gears in this model. A set of dynamic engine mounts keep things tight and honed in at all times. Sprinting from 0-62 mph is more fun and engaging as it takes just 4.4 ticks of the clock to accomplish, while the top speed is pegged at 183 mph (295 km/h).
But the Porsche Cayman GT4 is more than just a bigger engine; quite a few technical bits and pieces are based on the track-focused 911 GT3 sibling to achieve better driving dynamics. The car was developed at the automaker’s Motorsport department in Weissach, injecting knowledge from the track directly into its DNA. The 30 mm lower chassis and braking system is almost entirely made from 911 GT3 parts. As an option, customers can purchase the PCCB ceramic brake system, Sport Chrono Package with Track Precision app and a Club Sport Package as well.
Aerodynamics play a key role in any form of motorsport and that has been transferred over to the Porsche Cayman GT4. Up front, three large air inlets help pull in cool air while a lip spoiler generates downforce. New air inlets with ‘GT4’ lettering next to the doors help to feed the engine and brakes with cool air. A large fixed rear wing with integrated gurney flap helps to generate a tremendous amount of downforce for better stability and handling while a new black rear apron with diffuser look and sport exhaust tips add to the impressive visual dynamics of the sports car.
Inside the Porsche Cayman GT4, that same dedication to driver engagement and performance is apparent. The front seats are of the sport variety, have generous lateral support, and are covered in leather and alcantara. A smaller, 360 mm steering wheel helps to give drivers a more direct feel and greater control. New carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) shell seats can also be ordered as an option.
The new Porsche Cayman GT4 will make its global debut at the Geneva International Motor Show in March with deliveries beginning at the end of that month. Customers can order the new sports car in Germany for 85,779.
Porsche Cayman GT4 Specifications
Engine:
Displacement: 3.8 liters
Number of Cylinders: Flat-six
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Maximum Horsepower: 385 / 283 kW at 7,400 RPM
Maximum Torque: 309.73 lb-ft. / 420 Nm from 4,750 to 6,000 RPM
Transmission:
Type: Six-speed manual
Drive: Rear-wheel
Performance:
Acceleration 0-62 mph: 4.4 seconds
Top Speed: 183.3 mph / 295 km/h
Nurburgring North Loop Time: 7:40
Porsche Cayman GT4 Gallery
Source: Porsche
Would you choose the Porsche Cayman GT4 over a 911?
