Specification | Details |
---|---|
Type | Mid-Engine Sports Coupe |
Production Years | 2013–2016 |
Engine | 3.4L Naturally Aspirated Flat-6 (MA1.23) |
Power Output | 325 PS / 239 kW @ 7,400 rpm |
Torque | 370 Nm @ 4,500–5,800 rpm |
Transmission | 6-Speed Manual or 7-Speed PDK |
Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) | 5.0 seconds (Manual), 4.9 seconds (PDK), 4.7 seconds (PDK with Sport Chrono) |
Top Speed | 282 km/h (175 mph) |
Fuel Consumption (Combined) | 8.8 L/100 km (Manual), 8.0 L/100 km (PDK) |
CO₂ Emissions | 206 g/km (Manual), 188 g/km (PDK) |
Length | 4,374 mm |
Width | 1,801 mm |
Height | 1,293 mm |
Wheelbase | 2,475 mm |
Kerb Weight | 1,320 kg (Manual), 1,350 kg (PDK) |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 liters |
Seating Capacity | 2 |
Front Suspension | Independent MacPherson Strut with Coil Springs |
Rear Suspension | Independent Multi-Link with Coil Springs |
Brakes | Ventilated Discs Front and Rear |
Wheels | Front: 19" Alloy; Rear: 19" Alloy |
Tires | Front: 235/40 ZR19; Rear: 265/40 ZR19 |
Chassis | Aluminum-Steel Composite |
Interior Features |
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Exterior Features |
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Driver Assistance & Safety |
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Naturally Aspirated Flat-Six Engine
The 981 Cayman S features a 3.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-six, producing 325 horsepower and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft) of torque, with a thrilling engine note and linear power delivery.
0–100 km/h in Just 4.7 Seconds
When equipped with the optional PDK transmission and Sport Chrono Package, the Cayman S can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0–62 mph) in just 4.7 seconds.
Perfect Mid-Engine Balance
The Cayman S has a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, giving it near-perfect weight distribution and one of the most balanced chassis in its class.
Porsche’s Lightweight Sports Car Philosophy
The 981 generation introduced a lighter yet stiffer chassis than its predecessor, utilizing more aluminum and modern materials for improved handling and efficiency.
Sharp, More Aggressive Styling
The 981 Cayman S brought a more muscular and upscale design with wider air intakes, new headlight designs, and 911-inspired taillights, giving it a more premium presence.
Available with Manual or PDK Transmission
Buyers could choose between a 6-speed manual gearbox or the lightning-quick 7-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, catering to both purists and performance seekers.
Optional PASM Adaptive Suspension
The Cayman S could be equipped with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), allowing the driver to adjust suspension stiffness for comfort or sporty driving.
High-Quality Interior with Classic Layout
The interior introduced the rising center console design from the 911, along with higher-grade materials, improved ergonomics, and optional sport seats and premium sound systems.
Highly Acclaimed by Enthusiasts and Critics
The 981 Cayman S was widely praised for its steering feel, handling, and driver engagement — often considered one of the best-driving sports cars of its era.
A Final Chapter for Naturally Aspirated Flat-Six Caymans
The 981 was the last generation of Cayman S to feature a naturally aspirated flat-six engine, before the switch to turbocharged flat-fours in the 718 generation.
The Porsche Cayman S (981) is widely regarded as the purest modern mid-engine Porsche, featuring a naturally aspirated 3.4L flat-six (325 HP), perfect 47/53 weight distribution, and one of the best chassis in automotive history. It’s a driver’s car first, outperforming rivals like the BMW M2 or Jaguar F-Type in engagement, while remaining more practical than a Lotus Exige.
1. Price Ranges (EUR, Mid-2024)
Standard Cayman S (PDK or Manual)
High-Mileage/Modified (100,000+ km): €25,000 – €32,000
(Note: Tuned examples often have clutch/PDK wear—verify maintenance.)
Well-Maintained (60,000–100,000 km): €35,000 – €45,000
(Ideal for: Enthusiasts who actually drive their Porsches.)
Low-Mileage/Collector-Grade (<60,000 km): €48,000 – €65,000
(Critical: Full Porsche service history, no accidents, original paint.)
Special Editions & Variants
Cayman GTS (6-speed manual): €55,000 – €75,000
(Why special: 340 HP, Sport Chrono, PSE, and coveted by purists.)
Cayman Black Edition (Limited Run): +€5k–8k premium
(Production: Only 500 made, with unique styling and interior.)
2. Key Factors Affecting Value
✅ Provenance Matters
Porsche Service History: +10–15% premium.
One-Owner Cars: +5–8% (especially if manual).
✅ Options That Add Value
6-Speed Manual Transmission: +€5,000–8,000 (high demand).
Porsche Sport Exhaust (PSE): +€2,000–3,000.
X73 Sport Suspension: +€1,500–2,500.
✅ Mileage Sensitivity
Every 10,000 km reduces value by €1,000–1,500.
Over 150,000 km? Expect IMS/clutch inspection requests.
⚠️ Critical Watch-Outs
IMS Bearing Issues (Pre-2014 Models) – Check for engine noise.
PDK Shudder (Early 2013–2014 Cars) – Test cold shifts.
"Base Cayman" Badged as "S" – Verify engine code (MA1.22).
3. Where to Buy in the EU?
Official Channels
Porsche Approved Used (Best selection in Germany).
Specialist Dealers: RPM Technik (UK), Autohaus Göttingen (DE).
Private Sales & Auctions
Mobile.de, Autoscout24 (filter for "Full History").
Enthusiast Forums: Rennlist, Planet-9 (Cayman-specific).
Pro Tip: Swiss/Dutch imports often have better specs, check for winter packs.
4. Market Trends
📈 Appreciation/Depreciation
Manual GTS models rising ~5% yearly (future classic status).
PDK-equipped S models stable (great value for drivers).
⚠️ Trap Warning
"Too cheap" cars may have hidden accident damage (run a VIN check).
5. Must-Do Checks
🔧 Mechanical:
Listen for IMS rattle at 2,000 RPM (pre-2014 cars).
Test steering rack for play (expensive to replace).
Check coolant pipes (plastic connectors crack with age).
📄 Paperwork:
Porsche Digital Service Record (no gaps!).
No "Cat S/N" salvage history (common for crashed Caymans).
Fun Fact: The 981 Cayman’s chassis was so good Porsche intentionally detuned it, to avoid cannibalizing 911 sales!
Who Buys This?
Ex-911 Owners (who realized mid-engine is more fun).
Trackday Enthusiasts (perfect balance at half GT4 cost).
Smart Collectors (knowing the 981 is the last NA Cayman).
Contact Details YourCar360:
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