2008 Porsche Cayman Review

The Cayman is a mid-engine sporty coupe that debuted in 2006. It's based on the Boxster, but uses a modified engine that offers more performance. It's their first mid-engine coupe since the 1970's 914.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Porsche Cayman is a nice middle ground between the Boxster and the 911. If you're smart about the options you choose, it's a great value. While it's unfortunate that it has been crippled to keep it from topping Carrera sales, it's still an excellent sports car with exacting German precision.

What's New For 2008:

Lighter, carbon-fiber seats are now available that drop the Cayman's weight by 15-20 pounds. The Porsche Design One package is now available with various cosmetic adjustments. Two trims are available: base and Cayman S.

Request a free, no-obligation, new 2008 Porsche Cayman price quote or choose any other model you're interested in and receive the Buying Advice Team's Insider Report for New Car Buyers.

Vital Stats

Starting MSRP:
$50,300

Rebates & Incentives:
yes

Seats:
2

Gas Mileage:
19/27

Engine:
2.9L H6

Horsepower:
265@7200RPM

Torque:
221@4400RPM

Transmission:
6 Speed Manual

Drive:
MID/RWD

Fuel Capacity:
17

Fuel Type:
gasoline

Basic Warranty:
48/50000

Powertrain Warranty:
48/50000

Rust Warranty:
120/Unlimi

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power ratings are not available. Problems with the Cayman include flaky electrical systems, loose exhaust clamps, popping headlight washer nozzles, and loose nuts. No recalls have been issued. Expect above average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

Crash test scores are not available. Anti-lock brakes, side airbags, and stability and traction control come standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Comfortable
+ Sexy exterior
+ Fun to drive

Cons
- Disappointing performance
- Overpriced options
- Small buttons

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Chevrolet Corvette starts at a few thousand less, has more trunk space, and over 180 more hp, but gets slightly worse gas mileage. The Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class costs a few thousand less, but gets slightly worse gas mileage. The BMW Z4 M has over 80 more hp, but costs a few thousand more and gets up to 7 fewer miles to the gallon.

What Others Are Saying:

"The Porsche Cayman shows that this small, prosperous German automaker has a knack for introducing desirable new models -- and then providing various versions of them to appeal to a greater number of buyers." - Chicago Sun-Times

"The Cayman is a thoroughly German sports car. In other words, it's all about the driving, not the car. Yes, you become one with the motorized scalpel that transforms you into a corner carving God. But there's nothing about the Cayman that tugs at your heart strings...In short, the Porsche Cayman S is nothing less- and strangely nothing more- than the ultimate driving machine." - The Truth About Cars

"It costs more than a Boxster and less than a 911, but is more beautiful than either one, while the performance of the Cayman S nearly equals the 911. There's nothing crude or difficult about it, from the well-equipped cabin to the comfortable ride to the engine's broad power curve. Porsche has always been known for performance, but the looks have lost their distinction over time. The Cayman turns heads again." - The New York Times

Read more about the 2008 Porsche Cayman at the Porsche manufacturer web site.

Published on Friday, June 13, 2008 - Email to a friend

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