“Bought my car in spite of cost of ownership with 3 previous Porsches and other German cars... Why? Fun to drive.”
Porsche Cayman: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Porsche Cayman is a compact, two-seat, mid-engine sports coupe known for balanced handling, precise steering, and quick, controlled responses. It offers a focused Porsche driving experience in a smaller, more approachable package than a 911.
The Cayman has consistently put balance and driver control ahead of sheer size or excess power. Its mid-engine layout places the engine behind the seats to help the car feel composed and responsive. Across the 987 and 981 generations, Porsche refined that formula with stronger flat-six engines, updated transmissions, and sharper performance versions without giving up useful everyday touches.
Strengths
- Its mid-engine layout gives it the balanced, predictable responses that define the Cayman.
- The steering and chassis focus on precision and control rather than relying on excess power.
- Naturally aspirated flat-six engines give the 987 and 981 models much of their distinctive character.
- Two luggage compartments make it more useful for everyday driving and weekend trips than its shape might suggest.
- The lineup ranges from approachable base models to sharply focused R and GT4 versions.
Who it's for
The Cayman fits someone who wants an engaging sports car for winding roads and regular drives, not just maximum power or straight-line speed. It suits one or two people who value steering feel and compact dimensions but still want a comfortable cabin and enough luggage space for a weekend away.
Porsche Cayman lineup
The base Cayman is the straightforward pick for the model’s core balance and driving feel, while the Cayman S adds a stronger engine without changing the basic character. In the later 981 years, the GTS built on the S with more power and performance upgrades as standard. The Cayman R in 2012 and GT4 from 2015 represent the sharper, more track-focused side of the family, with the GT4 marking the Cayman’s first entry into Porsche’s GT range. Black Edition models emphasize bundled comfort and convenience equipment rather than a different core driving personality.
Porsche Cayman generations
From 2009 to 2016, the Cayman spans two generations. The current 2nd Generation — 981 arrived for 2014, following the 1st Generation — 987.2 (2009–2012).
2nd Generation — 981 (2014–2016)
The redesigned 981 Cayman has a lighter steel-and-aluminum body, a longer wheelbase, a wider stance, and more cargo room than the earlier car. It keeps the mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and uses naturally aspirated flat-six engines.
23 In Stock
2016Trim changes
The Black Edition special model joins the lineup with bundled navigation, upgraded lighting, parking sensors, and added comfort features.
2015Trim changes
The performance-focused GTS and track-focused GT4 join the lineup.
2014New generation
The redesigned 981 debuts with a lighter body, more interior and cargo room, updated flat-six engines, and a redesigned cabin.
1st Generation — 987.2 (2009–2012)
The 987.2 is the substantially updated version of the original Cayman generation. It brings revised styling, new flat-six engines, a retuned suspension and brakes, and Porsche's 7-speed PDK automatic.
4 In Stock
2012Trim changes
The lighter, track-focused Cayman R joins the lineup, along with the limited-run Cayman S Black Edition.
2011
Bluetooth hands-free calling and a USB/iPod audio connection become standard across the lineup.
2010
Carryover year with no significant changes to the styling, engines, trims, or chassis.
2009Mid-cycle update
A major refresh brings new flat-six engines, the 7-speed PDK automatic, retuned suspension and brakes, lightly revised styling, and cabin technology updates.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Porsche Cayman.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Porsche Cayman a coupe or a convertible?
The Cayman is a two-door coupe. In the covered 2009–2016 model years, it has two seats, a compact body, and a mid-engine layout designed around balanced handling.
Is the Porsche Cayman practical enough for everyday driving?
Yes, if two seats are enough. The Cayman has a comfortable cabin and two luggage compartments, one at each end, so it is more useful for daily driving and short trips than its compact shape may suggest.
Is the Cayman mid-engine or rear-engine?
The Cayman is mid-engine, meaning its engine sits behind the seats but ahead of the rear axle. That placement is central to the car’s balanced feel, precise responses, and strong cornering stability.
Does the Porsche Cayman have all-wheel drive?
No. The covered 2009–2016 Cayman lineup is rear-wheel drive. Its mid-engine layout places the engine’s weight near the driven rear wheels and helps give the car its balanced handling.
Does the Porsche Cayman come as a hybrid?
No. The covered 2009–2016 Caymans are gasoline sports cars with naturally aspirated flat-six engines. There is no hybrid in this range.
Does the Cayman come with an automatic transmission?
Yes. A seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic joined the Cayman for the 2009 refresh, alongside manual versions. The late-981 GT4 is the notable exception here because it uses a six-speed manual only.
What are the main Cayman generations in this range?
The updated 987.2 covers 2009–2012. There was no separate U.S. 2013 Cayman, and the redesigned 981 followed for 2014–2016. The 718 Cayman redesign then replaced the base and S for 2017.
Porsche Cayman Reviews
What owners are saying about the Porsche Cayman.
4.7
Porsche Cayman
(76 reviews)
“I would highly recommend an autocross vehicle for those who are driven to exceed the boundaries on a road course with an agile car like the Porsche Cayman. The handling and ability to accelerate in an efficient and extremely quick manner is also key for the adventurous type who wants to feel the same feeling of those that do it professionally.”
“Porsche is a name brand I am loyal to and would highly recommend for safety, performance, luxury, versatility in models and options, and price / model range.”
“The Porsche Cayman is a fun, well balanced car. With the S engine and the PDK transmission it is both a great handling car and powerful. The fuel economy is some of the best of any sports car in this performance class. The interior is very warm and cozy. It feels like a safe place to ride in and drive.”
“Porsche is a superior vehicle manufacture from performance to comfort. The ride is smooth, the sound system is amazing, and the throttle response is second to none! Just watch out for the rubbernecks!”
“Consider that this is a sports car and that lots of features need to be added after the fact. You can have stripped down car and not meet your needs very easily”
Sources
- newsroom.porsche.com — Products / Porsche Cayman Black Edition 11453
- newsroom.porsche.com — en US / Products / Porsche 718 Cayman 718 Cayman S 19875
- newsroom.porsche.com — Jcr:2E05Fcd8 E8Ce 4B60 8611 9Ce844A8242E / PCNA18 1003 us.pdf
- newsroom.porsche.com — Jcr:0036Dadf 873B 46B8 86B2 841009F188Af / 2014 Cayman Technical Specifications.pdf
- newsroom.porsche.com — Products / The New Porsche Cayman Gt4 2015
- newsroom.porsche.com — Jcr:C54F2C8C 6C4B 4B4B B209 28C6B6Fceeed / 2016 Cayman GT4 Technical Specifications.pdf
- newsroom.porsche.com — Products / Porsche Gts Model Series 2015 911 Cayenne Boxster Cayman Panamera 10245
- newsroom.porsche.com — Jcr:Edba1E37 315E 4Dc2 Bf1C 84Fac14Ab621 / 2015 Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS Technical Specifications.pdf
- newsroom.porsche.com — Jcr:0036Dadf 873B 46B8 86B2 841009F188Af / 2014 Cayman Technical Specifications
- newsroom.porsche.com — Jcr:Edba1E37 315E 4Dc2 Bf1C 84Fac14Ab621 / 2015 Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS Technical Specifications
- newsroom.porsche.com — Products / Geneva International Motor Show Porsche Cayman Gt4 911 Gt3 Rs 10052
- newsroom.porsche.com — Jcr:Ea46Da02 7Daa 4Da9 9612 Bed398Da833E / 2011 Cayman Specifications.pdf