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Porsche Cayman: 987, 981 and 718 generations, engines and trims
The Porsche Cayman is a two-seater coupé with a mid-engine layout, often hailed as one of the best-handling sports cars. We explore the differences between the 987, 981 and 718 generations, the engines and trims you'll find in the used market, and what to check before buying.
Cayman in brief
The Cayman is the closed-roof sibling of the Boxster: the engine is mounted behind the seats, in front of the rear axle, so the car is well-balanced and responds precisely to the steering. It has two boot spaces — one at the front and one at the rear under a lift-up hatch — making it more practical than you might expect from a sports car.
Three generations have been produced so far: 987 (2005–2012), 981 (2013–2016) and 718 (from 2016). In the used market, the Cayman is often seen as a more sensible choice than the 911 — the driving experience is similar, but running costs are usually lower.
981 and 718 — what's the difference
The 981 generation (2013–2016) received a lighter body, a longer wheelbase and a 911-style interior with a high central console. Its naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines are praised for their sound and smooth power delivery, so good-condition 981s are highly sought-after in the used market, with the GT4 trim particularly holding its value.
The 718 generation (from 2016) looks similar on the outside, but the base and S trims come with four-cylinder turbocharged engines. These are more powerful and economical, but some buyers miss the sound of the six-cylinder. Later, the GT4 and GTS 4.0 trims reverted to the 4.0-litre naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine.
Today, the 987 is the cheapest way to get into a Cayman. The 2009 facelift models came with direct-injection engines and the PDK gearbox, making them usually the better choice among the older cars.
Engines and gearboxes
In the 987 Cayman S, you initially got a 3.4-litre (around 295 hp) engine, the base Cayman had a 2.7-litre (around 245 hp) unit, and after the 2009 facelift, these became a 3.4-litre (around 320 hp) and a 2.9-litre (around 265 hp) respectively. The lighter Cayman R had around 330 hp.
In the 981 Cayman, you get a 2.7-litre (around 275 hp) engine, the Cayman S has a 3.4-litre (around 325 hp), the GTS around 340 hp, and the GT4 a 3.8-litre (around 385 hp) six-cylinder unit. In the 718 Cayman, the Cayman and Cayman T come with a 2.0-litre turbo (around 300 hp), the Cayman S with a 2.5-litre (around 350 hp), the early GTS with around 365 hp, the GTS 4.0 with around 400 hp, the GT4 with around 420 hp, and the GT4 RS with around 500 hp.
Transmissions: manual or automatic. In the 987, up until 2009, it was Tiptronic, then a 7-speed PDK. The 981 GT4 came only with a manual gearbox, and the 718 GT4 later got a PDK too. All versions are rear-wheel drive.
What to check when buying a used Cayman
In the older 987 (up to 2009) engines, there are known issues with the intermediate shaft bearing (IMS) and cylinder wall scoring, so it's essential to get a check-up from a Porsche specialist. Diagnostics will also show if the engine has been revved too high — this is especially important for cars with a manual gearbox.
The PDK gearbox should shift quickly and smoothly, while the manual gearbox should not slip. Front radiators can collect leaves and mud, so they may rust — it's worth checking through the bumper vents.
Check the condition of the tyres, brakes, and suspension, as well as the underside of the body and the front bumper: they reveal whether the car was frequently used on the track or involved in an accident. Service history is particularly important for GTS and GT4 versions, especially if serviced by Porsche or a specialist.
Versions
Porsche trims heavily depend on individually ordered equipment; we list the main versions and their typical features.
Cayman
987, 981, 718The base version is the easiest and cheapest to maintain.
- The least powerful engine
- Smaller wheels and brakes
- Often comes with the Sport Chrono package
Cayman S
987, 981, 718The more powerful and popular version in the used market.
- More powerful engine and stronger brakes
- Often comes with adaptive PASM suspension
- Often comes with 19–20 inch wheels
Cayman T
718, from 2019A lighter, driver-focused version of the base engine.
- Lower PASM suspension and sport exhaust
- Shorter-throw gear shifter
- Simplified interior trim
Cayman GTS
981, 718The most powerful daily driver version with the most sporty equipment.
- Standard Sport Chrono Package
- Alcantara interior upholstery
- Blacked-out exterior details
Cayman GT4
981, 718Track-focused version that holds its value exceptionally well.
- Atmospheric six-cylinder engine
- Large rear wing and aerodynamic package
- Lower, firmer suspension
Comparison of 718 generation variants
| 718 Cayman | Cayman S | Cayman GTS 4.0 | Cayman GT4 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | For everyday sporty driving | More power for everyday | For six-cylinder enthusiasts | Track tools and collectors' items |
| Most common wheels | 18–20 inch | 19–20 inch | 20 inch | 20 inch |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbo, around 300hp | 2.5-litre turbo, around 350hp | 4.0-litre, around 400hp | 4.0-litre, around 420hp |
| Interior | Standard | Often sport seats | Alcantara interior | Often sport seats of the bucket type |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Budget | Mid-range | Premium | Premium |
For daily driving, the 718 Cayman or Cayman S are the best bets. If the sound of a six-cylinder engine is crucial, go for the GTS 4.0 or the 981 iteration, while the GT4 is for those who track their cars.
Pros
- Excellent handling and a well-balanced chassis
- Two trunks — handy for daily use
- Generally cheaper to run than a 911
- Holds its value well, especially the GTS and GT4
Cons
- Two seats only
- More expensive to maintain and parts than a regular car
- The four-cylinder engines in the 718 don't sound as impressive
Frequently asked questions
How does the Cayman differ from the Boxster?
The technology and engines are almost identical, but the Cayman is a coupé with a fixed roof, while the Boxster is a convertible. The Cayman has a stiffer body, and the rear boot is accessible via a lift-up rear hatch.
Which Cayman generation is best to buy used?
For many, the best choice is the 981 generation: modern, with six-cylinder naturally aspirated engines and none of the older 987 engine issues. The 718 is ideal for those who prioritise newer features and more power, while the 987 is better for a smaller budget, provided the car has been checked by a specialist.
Is the Cayman suitable for daily use?
Yes, if two seats are enough. Two boot spaces allow you to pack weekend luggage, and most versions ride comfortably enough. In winter, good winter tyres are essential, and due to the low body, you need to be cautious of deep snow and high kerbs.
What to choose — PDK or manual gearbox?
The PDK is quicker and more convenient in the city, while the manual gearbox is favoured by enthusiasts and often holds its value better, especially in GTS and GT4 versions. When buying a car with a manual gearbox, make sure to check that the engine hasn't been revved too high.
Updated 2026-10-09 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
