45k top budget which Cayman - Page 4 - Boxster/Cayman - PistonHeads UK

Hi guys as per the title looking to buy my first Porsche and have decided on a Cayman.....but which one ! Top budget 45k max. Do i go 981 2.7l litre or 3.4 litre S or do i go 982 Cayman ? I would prefer a manual and this style of wheel. https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202208018... Would also like the mileage to be 25k max. Any other options that you would consider are a must have ? Any help or pointers appreciated. Tom

Had a few variants over the years… I’d definitely go for a 987 R. They feel smaller, more direct, more responsive, lighter, more fun more of the time, brilliant little cars. You’ll get a low mile, top spec for £45k. They’re pretty bullet proof, but you can get an inspection done to pick up anything that may need doing. You won’t be disappointed.

Up the budget very slightly and look at 981 GTS Might get a private sale one come up for 45 if you're patient.

Trevor555 said: Up the budget very slightly and look at 981 GTS Might get a private sale one come up for 45 if you're patient. Ditto, great choice

TJC46 said: Hi guys as per the title looking to buy my first Porsche and have decided on a Cayman.....but which one ! Tom Cayman R. You want fun with your first Porsche, plenty of time to put slippers on later in life with a GTS, get the 987 R....or a wild card option which may resonate depending on your age, https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/13719945

Just to add… Had a 981 GTS and a 987 R Both brilliant, 987 R is the sharper driving car, the GTS is the better all rounder*….just depends what your priorities are the slippers comment about a GTS is ridiculous, I doubt he’s even driven one.

My advice would be to try as many versions as you can that fit within budget. All are good but one will likely speak to you and tick your own personal boxes more than others. I commented on another thread yesterday that I was originally dead set on a 981GTS but also drove versions of the 987 and 718. The finishing order was very different to my preconceptions.

MrVert said: Just to add… Had a 981 GTS and a 987 R Both brilliant, 987 R is the sharper driving car, the GTS is the better all rounder*….just depends what your priorities are the slippers comment about a GTS is ridiculous, I doubt he’s even driven one. the 981 GTS in fairness, no. The 718 2.5 GTS I took for a test drive and it drove me to boredom. Lovely cars, they just strike me more of a pipe and slippers kind of car.

981 GTS is a great car. Mine was a road weapon PDK, PTV, X73 …. Was my daily for nearly 3 years, factory order. Has since been owned at least a couple PHers since. Edited by TDT on Friday 23 December 21:39

Personally my £45k would go on a Manual 987R with Buckets and Spider alloys.

Taffy66 said: Personally my £45k would go on a Manual 987R with Buckets and Spider alloys. I do agree. Would be looking for the best one I could for the budget and probably go a bit over to get the right one.

TDT said: 981 GTS is a great car. Mine was a road weapon PDK, PTV, X73 …. Was my daily for nearly 3 years, factory order. Has since been owned at least a couple PHers since. Edited by TDT on Friday 23 December 21:39 Looks stunning that. Is that that rhododendron silver or whatever it’s called? either way, looks lovely, like liquid silver.

julian987R said: Looks stunning that. Is that that rhododendron silver or whatever it’s called? either way, looks lovely, like liquid silver. GT Silver. I specced exactly because of what you described…looks like liquid silver metal.

In addition to all that's been said, it depends what you want it for too. If used as a 2nd car, weekend / track toy, sure the 987R would be great. If used as a daily long distance commuter, the 987R would be.....let's say, not ideal. I'd be trying as many variants as I could to decide exactly what works for what it'll be used for. Unless you're a total driving god, don't discount PDK, and its worth bearing in mind the base models are fantastic, esp the later 6cyl 981's.

Looks very similar to my rhodium silver

981 3.4 litre S PDK would be my choice. Don't get too bogged down with what people tell you are the 'must have' options, the only must have options are the ones that suit you and what you will be doing with it. Don't knock the PDK until you have tried it yourself and I don't mean a quick drive around the block. A good car with flawless history is worth paying more for.

Watch the 981 steering, if you’ve driven a proper hydraulic rack like in the 987 you may find it lacks feedback. Epas in the 718 is improved but nowhere near that of proper hydraulic. £ for £ if you want newer I’d personally go for a 718, or a 987 if you don’t mind running something older.

Looks very similar to my rhodium silver

TDT said: Taffy66 said: Personally my £45k would go on a Manual 987R with Buckets and Spider alloys. I do agree. Would be looking for the best one I could for the budget and probably go a bit over to get the right one. Thirded, if that’s a word. 981 GTS also a great shout

Skin981 said: Looks very similar to my rhodium silver GT Silver is a bit more warm. Rhodium has more blue tint and is colder tone.

PGNSagaris said: TDT said: Taffy66 said: Personally my £45k would go on a Manual 987R with Buckets and Spider alloys. I do agree. Would be looking for the best one I could for the budget and probably go a bit over to get the right one. Thirded, if that’s a word. 981 GTS also a great shout Fourthed But I am biased, would add what someone said above, maybe not if a daily (only my opinion) Drive a few different options and then make your mind up, enjoy your searching…..

john41901 said: Watch the 981 steering, if you’ve driven a proper hydraulic rack like in the 987 you may find it lacks feedback. Epas in the 718 is improved but nowhere near that of proper hydraulic. £ for £ if you want newer I’d personally go for a 718, or a 987 if you don’t mind running something older. I had the choice of all three, the 987 was too old for me, the 718 4 cyl engine didn't appeal at all and I wouldn't want one full stop. That left me with the 981 and the steering issue I kept reading about on here - a perfect example of where reading stuff on forums isn't always helpful. Is it perfect, probably not, has it affected the enjoyment of the car in any way, not in the slightest, I would advise anyone thinking of buying one to ignore what you read on here and make your own mind up.

As is usual with these threads you'll get a lot of opinions on where to spend your money and some of the suggestions may well be for cars you've not thought of which can either help or add to the dilemma. Often the best advice is to draw up a short list, go and find some good examples for sale and then drive them. This will be the only way you'll know what you like despite all the well intentioned views you'll get on here. But since you asked, my choice would be between a 2.7 981 or a 2.0 982 probably opting for the 982 as I think it represents the best all round package for the money and the fact you selected one as your example suggests that you may well be thinking the same Whatever you decide, have a Merry Christmas and don't forget to post some pictures once your purchase has been made.

Been running a 2.0 base 718 for six years and 50k miles, superb car. Tried a 981 as well before buying but found the 2.7 F6 a bit underpowered in comparison. 2.0 works really well with the PDK, just remember to keep it in sport mode. Can't remember the 981 steering particularly, but did test drive an Emira a couple of weeks back- the steering feel on that is unreal compared to my Cayman.

julian987R said: TJC46 said: Hi guys as per the title looking to buy my first Porsche and have decided on a Cayman.....but which one ! Tom Cayman R. You want fun with your first Porsche, plenty of time to put slippers on later in life with a GTS, get the 987 R....or a wild card option which may resonate depending on your age, https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/13719945 I'm not the biggest 944 nerd in the country, but I can probably give him a run for his money. I would suggest that this would be a foolish mistake.

TDT said: GT Silver is a bit more warm. Rhodium has more blue tint and is colder tone. Agree GT Silver has a warmer tint compared to Rhodium. Whether I would have paid the extra when new! Porsche Club Dorset Region BBQ @ Rivo's-30 by Rob Walker , on Flickr

Taffy66 said: Personally my £45k would go on a Manual 987R with Buckets and Spider alloys. Why not a PDK?

Thank yo. I had always assumed that the PDK ECU adapted to your driving style in the way that a Tiptronic did, only far better. My interest remained principally with older Porsches (although Im looking for a 987 now) and I spent a lot of time trying to work out how to fit an Audi DSG transaxle into a 944 Turbo. I suppose that you cannot please all of the people all of the time.

944 Man said: Taffy66 said: Personally my £45k would go on a Manual 987R with Buckets and Spider alloys. Why not a PDK? Approaching 5 years ownership of my 981S, I still haven't really warmed to the PDK due to the lack of engagement. Even in manual mode with paddles and Sport Chrono, I just don't feel as connected to the shift compared with a true manual. In auto mode, it often doesn't feel like it's in the gear I'd be in with a manual. And coming to a stop, it can be a bit clunky as it down shifts. I really wanted an R and test drove a 5K miles PDK one at my local OPC before I bought the 981. All the same issues I have with my 981. Edited by DRH986 on Saturday 24th December 15:10

Voodoo Blue said: As is usual with these threads you'll get a lot of opinions on where to spend your money and some of the suggestions may well be for cars you've not thought of which can either help or add to the dilemma. Often the best advice is to draw up a short list, go and find some good examples for sale and then drive them. This will be the only way you'll know what you like despite all the well intentioned views you'll get on here. But since you asked, my choice would be between a 2.7 981 or a 2.0 982 probably opting for the 982 as I think it represents the best all round package for the money and the fact you selected one as your example suggests that you may well be thinking the same Whatever you decide, have a Merry Christmas and don't forget to post some pictures once your purchase has been made. Thanks for all the suggestions so far. I think the Cayman R is a bit too hardline for me as my first Porsche. I need something i could use every day. The above post makes good sense to me. What i have looked at so far, only online though, has me torn between a very nice spec 2.7 981 18000 miles on a 64 plate £36k A couple of decent spec 3.4 S both almost 20000 miles, both on a 13 plate between £37 to £39k. But quite a few 718 Cayman low down on the spec but 67 and 18 plate reg all less than 16k miles, some less than 10k miles, all between £42 to £45k. I think in the new year i need to drive examples of the above and make a decision that way. I would not rule out a PDK Porsche but a few years ago I had a BMW M2 Comp for 12 months which was auto, exactly like the PDK system on a Porsche, paddles on the steering wheel, various sport modes etc It was over 400 bhp so a very quick car. Only problem was it all felt a bit soulless. Anyway back to the search, In the way of specification, what are must haves ?

TJC46 said: Thanks for all the suggestions so far. I think the Cayman R is a bit too hardline for me as my first Porsche. I need something i could use every day. The above post makes good sense to me. What i have looked at so far, only online though, has me torn between a very nice spec 2.7 981 18000 miles on a 64 plate £36k A couple of decent spec 3.4 S both almost 20000 miles, both on a 13 plate between £37 to £39k. But quite a few 718 Cayman low down on the spec but 67 and 18 plate reg all less than 16k miles, some less than 10k miles, all between £42 to £45k. I think in the new year i need to drive examples of the above and make a decision that way. I would not rule out a PDK Porsche but a few years ago I had a BMW M2 Comp for 12 months which was auto, exactly like the PDK system on a Porsche, paddles on the steering wheel, various sport modes etc It was over 400 bhp so a very quick car. Only problem was it all felt a bit soulless. Anyway back to the search, In the way of specification, what are must haves ? If you want some ‘soul’, you’ll definitely need a 981 with the flat 6. The 4 pot 718 is effective and pretty quick, but it does lack the noise, character and sportiness of the six IMO… If you need it for a daily and can get into a GTS for a bit more, they’re worth it. Something like this should be down a little more after Xmas I reckon when things start to bite into peoples pockets. https://www.pistonheads.com/buy/listing/14205980 Watch out for corroded parts under the car, brackets, bolts, heat shields etc etc. These do rust and can add up to a tidy sum if all needed to be done. Definitely get an inspection done and use it to negotiate. It’ll pay for itself and more.

TJC46 said: Thanks for all the suggestions so far. I think the Cayman R is a bit too hardline for me as my first Porsche. I need something i could use every day. The above post makes good sense to me. What i have looked at so far, only online though, has me torn between a very nice spec 2.7 981 18000 miles on a 64 plate £36k A couple of decent spec 3.4 S both almost 20000 miles, both on a 13 plate between £37 to £39k. But quite a few 718 Cayman low down on the spec but 67 and 18 plate reg all less than 16k miles, some less than 10k miles, all between £42 to £45k. I think in the new year i need to drive examples of the above and make a decision that way. I would not rule out a PDK Porsche but a few years ago I had a BMW M2 Comp for 12 months which was auto, exactly like the PDK system on a Porsche, paddles on the steering wheel, various sport modes etc It was over 400 bhp so a very quick car. Only problem was it all felt a bit soulless. Anyway back to the search, In the way of specification, what are must haves ? I would agree that the 981 flat sixes sound fantastic, especially with PSE switch on but the tech inside is a little dated and the steering isn't quite as positive as a 987 or 718 IMO. We've still got a 981 2.7 Cayman and my wife loves it so much it'll probably stay with us until she can't get in (or more likely out) of it any more. I had a 2.0 718 Boxster for 18 months and thought it was a brilliant car for the money. Yes it doesn't sound like a flat 6 but actually with PSE switched on it sounded pretty good in a different way. The cars built before 2018 didn't have PPF installed so sound even more raucous The best thing about the 2.0 though is the performance. It's a typical turbo unit with lots of low down grunt and although there is a slight hesitation when pulling away, the turbo lag is virtually imperceptible. On paper is quicker than a 981S and not far off a GTS, the brakes are better, the steering is better, the standard headlights while not as good as LEDs are better, the interior tech is better and while it's basically the same car underneath it feels a step up in terms of quality. Oh, and it'll do mid/high 30s or more on a run if economy is important. If I hadn't had the opportunity to get into a 4.0 718 my 2.0 would still be sat on the drive now. The only other thing I would say is don't dismiss the PDK if you decide a 718 is the car for you, the power delivery is so much better than a manual but understand it's not for everyone. Good luck with your search.

I had a similar dilemma a couple of years ago and ended up with a PDK 2.7 cayman 981. I came from an Audi s3 and it did feel underpowered initially but i soon got used to it. I would say that the nice thing is being able to use more of the power more of the time especially on UK roads. For me a must have option was the PSE which sounds fantastic. The Pdk is a great gearbox and is lovely as a daily driver but I would have probably gone manual if it was a weekend car. If you are looking low mileage it might be worth getting one from an OPC like I did so you get 2 year warranty for added peace of mind and the option to extend.

TJC46 said: Voodoo Blue said: As is usual with these threads you'll get a lot of opinions on where to spend your money and some of the suggestions may well be for cars you've not thought of which can either help or add to the dilemma. Often the best advice is to draw up a short list, go and find some good examples for sale and then drive them. This will be the only way you'll know what you like despite all the well intentioned views you'll get on here. But since you asked, my choice would be between a 2.7 981 or a 2.0 982 probably opting for the 982 as I think it represents the best all round package for the money and the fact you selected one as your example suggests that you may well be thinking the same Whatever you decide, have a Merry Christmas and don't forget to post some pictures once your purchase has been made. Thanks for all the suggestions so far. I think the Cayman R is a bit too hardline for me as my first Porsche. I need something i could use every day. The above post makes good sense to me. What i have looked at so far, only online though, has me torn between a very nice spec 2.7 981 18000 miles on a 64 plate £36k A couple of decent spec 3.4 S both almost 20000 miles, both on a 13 plate between £37 to £39k. But quite a few 718 Cayman low down on the spec but 67 and 18 plate reg all less than 16k miles, some less than 10k miles, all between £42 to £45k. I think in the new year i need to drive examples of the above and make a decision that way. I would not rule out a PDK Porsche but a few years ago I had a BMW M2 Comp for 12 months which was auto, exactly like the PDK system on a Porsche, paddles on the steering wheel, various sport modes etc It was over 400 bhp so a very quick car. Only problem was it all felt a bit soulless. Anyway back to the search, In the way of specification, what are must haves ? Really you're right on the PDK and your BMW comp experience. Stick to the manual. PDK needs the turbo torque to work as an auto imo so that means a 718 pdk. Yes I have owned pdk my last a 991.2 GTS and it still bored me to death a 981 2.7 pdk is all or nothing for instance. If you live in the smoke then maybe things are different but in open road country I would and do only have a manual and in any engine capacity they are good. I have had 987s through to 981 spyder I would go for a 981 variant as a first Porsche, GTS sweet spot.

I was given a 718 Boxster 2.0 PDK loaner this year and it was so unbelievably disappointing I couldn’t believe what I was driving. Felt like a car solely for people to tick the Porsche owning box only. Sound was cr*p. Engine dull and feels as though they’ve put the wrong engine in the car. The steering is blunt and lacks feel. Chassis is good to be fair but the loaner car excitement vanished on the drive home. OP, aim for a manual, six pot as a minimum.

PGNSagaris said: I was given a 718 Boxster 2.0 PDK loaner this year and it was so unbelievably disappointing I couldn’t believe what I was driving. Felt like a car solely for people to tick the Porsche owning box only. Sound was cr*p. Engine dull and feels as though they’ve put the wrong engine in the car. The steering is blunt and lacks feel. Chassis is good to be fair but the loaner car excitement vanished on the drive home. OP, aim for a manual, six pot as a minimum. Genuinely surprised to read that. I’m going to test drive one in the new year after ruling out older ones. Watched this “Porsche 718 Boxster REVIEW POV Test Drive by AutoTopNL” especially the 6k rpm launch at 11:23.

dfen5 said: PGNSagaris said: I was given a 718 Boxster 2.0 PDK loaner this year and it was so unbelievably disappointing I couldn’t believe what I was driving. Felt like a car solely for people to tick the Porsche owning box only. Sound was cr*p. Engine dull and feels as though they’ve put the wrong engine in the car. The steering is blunt and lacks feel. Chassis is good to be fair but the loaner car excitement vanished on the drive home. OP, aim for a manual, six pot as a minimum. Genuinely surprised to read that. I’m going to test drive one in the new year after ruling out older ones. Watched this “Porsche 718 Boxster REVIEW POV Test Drive by AutoTopNL” especially the 6k rpm launch at 11:23. It's absolute twaddle of course, just more nonsense spouted by the usual idiots trolling during the school holidays. If he found the EPAS dull in the 718 his 981 must feel even worse... The GPF does mute the sound in the 2018 on cars, but the older ones pre GPF are much louder. OP plenty of choice so buy whatever you prefer. No options are really must haves IMO, climate is probably a minimum although d I'd say avoid anything with sports chrono to avoid the design faults with the dynamic engine mounts - or keep it warrantied as they can get expensive.

thompson9745 said: It's absolute twaddle of course, just more nonsense spouted by the usual idiots trolling during the school holidays. If he found the EPAS dull in the 718 his 981 must feel even worse... The GPF does mute the sound in the 2018 on cars, but the older ones pre GPF are much louder. OP plenty of choice so buy whatever you prefer. No options are really must haves IMO, climate is probably a minimum although d I'd say avoid anything with sports chrono to avoid the design faults with the dynamic engine mounts - or keep it warrantied as they can get expensive. It’s all about opinions I’ve had 2.0 & 2.5 718s as loaners and whilst they were both lovely inside (a big step up from my R) they were both felt like driving my daily Golf GTD. ie, perfectly capable, but nothing more I’ve no doubt they can go quickly but they are completely lacking in genuine Porsche (engine) DNA, IMO, of course

thompson9745 said: It's absolute twaddle of course, just more nonsense spouted by the usual idiots trolling during the school holidays. If he found the EPAS dull in the 718 his 981 must feel even worse... Oh dear. Don’t be a clown newbie and learn to read. Where did I say the steering was dull. It might be accurate but it doesn’t feel right. I say as I see and buy as I like. Look at my garage and come say hi at the RS day at Oulton.

anonymous said: [redacted] Cossers- I think you may have me confused with another poster. No horse in this race but if I see someone obviously trolling by parroting the same tired old cliches having never actually driven the cars I will call them out.

anonymous said: [redacted] No worries, , enjoy the holidays.

thompson9745 said: Cossers- I think you may have me confused with another poster. No horse in this race but if I see someone obviously trolling by parroting the same tired old cliches having never actually driven the cars I will call them out. Oh dear. I did around 700 miles in a week in one in February whilst my Spyder was being serviced at OPC Silverstone, courtesy of the lovely Anna B. So whilst not mega miles, enough for me to form an opinion. And you’ve seen my thoughts. Don’t take it personally. Maybe you like them. I didn’t. Tell me, have you ever driven any of these cars that are being discussed? Would be interested to hear your experiences Edited by PGNSagaris on Sunday 25th December 21:00

4 pot 718’s feel like the Porsche DNA has been extracted from them and supplemented with a strain from Subaru…. The word ‘Imposter’ springs to mind… If you want a Porsche, you have to have a flat 6. It is literally the essence running through the veins… If you want a 4 cyl, bust your nuts and get a GR86…for £30k that’s where I’d be going.

I'm always astonished when people say the 718 Caysters aren't very good compared to previous versions. We've owned a 987, a 981 (still have it) and 2 982s and I honestly think the 982 is the best of the bunch overall even if the 987 had better steering. But then I suppose everyone is different and its a good thing we all like different things or the world would be very boring. Conversely I don't get 911s, the weight is all in the wrong place and it feels truly awful to drive when pressing on through the twisties. Yes they've improved in subsequent generations (992 is debatable) but why anyone would pay more for one when the Cayster is so much more fun to drive is beyond me, especially now Porsche have given the current generation the power it deserves even if the 4 pots sound a bit different.

Voodoo Blue said: I'm always astonished when people say the 718 Caysters aren't very good compared to previous versions. We've owned a 987, a 981 (still have it) and 2 982s and I honestly think the 982 is the best of the bunch overall even if the 987 had better steering. But then I suppose everyone is different and its a good thing we all like different things or the world would be very boring. Conversely I don't get 911s, the weight is all in the wrong place and it feels truly awful to drive when pressing on through the twisties. Yes they've improved in subsequent generations (992 is debatable) but why anyone would pay more for one when the Cayster is so much more fun to drive is beyond me, especially now Porsche have given the current generation the power it deserves even if the 4 pots sound a bit different. Nail on the head. Makes me laugh, its like some weird piston count snobbery/their trying to compensate for a lack of something else perhaps... most of the noise complaints levelled at 982's can be minimised simply by unplugging the stupid soundaktor fuse. OP, don't worry about anyone else's opinions, it'll be your car at the end of the day - and the search is all part of the fun. Good luck.

MrVert said: If you want a Porsche, you have to have a flat 6. It is literally the essence running through the veins… Not really. This, like the rest of your post, is total b ks.

Fnumber1user said: Nail on the head. Makes me laugh, its like some weird piston count snobbery/their trying to compensate for a lack of something else perhaps... most of the noise complaints levelled at 982's can be minimised simply by unplugging the stupid soundaktor fuse. Or, just maybe, people have different opinions to you? Nothing to do with snobbery, just preferring one iteration over another Having owned a 924S and a 944S2 I’m not averse to a 4 cylinder Porsche, but the 718 leaves me numb, unless in GT4 guise (I imagine I’d like the GTS 4.0 but not been in or driven one)

jimbo761 said: Not really. This, like the rest of your post, is total b ks. Not really...., my opinion is based on owning many Porsche's of all varieties over the years. From 993's, '74 Carrera, Tutthill Resto, numerous 997's, GT3's, Turbo's, loads of Boxsters & Caymans... So my opinion is based upon Porsche cars throughout the last 30-40 years and my experience of them over the last 20. Also, driven a few 718's, had a base 2.0 for three weeks as a loan car,a 2.5S then a 2.5 GTS for two weeks and about 1500 miles. Capable yes, characterful no. What's yours based on? Owning a 718? I think you know less about this than you're telling us....

freedman said: Or, just maybe, people have different opinions to you? Nothing to do with snobbery, just preferring one iteration over another Having owned a 924S and a 944S2 I’m not averse to a 4 cylinder Porsche, but the 718 leaves me numb, unless in GT4 guise (I imagine I’d like the GTS 4.0 but not been in or driven one) We had a 924S and a 944 back in the 90s and loved them. I keep looking on AT with the view of getting another one but even basket cases are stupid money these days. The 4.0 Caysters are incredible and apart from the PPF throttling the exhaust are the best they've made so far. Having done nearly 11K miles in my B25 over the first year of ownership I think I've got the last sports car I'll ever buy as I can't see anything else coming out in the future to better it with all the changes coming our way. Having said that the 2.0 718 might only have half the displacement but it's probably got circa 90% of the capability of the 4.0 and it's an incredible package for the money which is why I'm always astonished when I hear people say they're rubbish (not you of course). I for one respect anyone who has properly tried a 4 cylinder 718 and decided it's not for them. The noise out the back is different and for some that's just too much which is such a shame as the rest of the car is so good.

MrVert said: jimbo761 said: Not really. This, like the rest of your post, is total b ks. What's yours based on? Owning a 718? I think you know less about this than you're telling us.... usual s t. I don't think I've updated my PH car history but don't let that stop you making yet more incorrect judgements, I have previously owned, raced & tracked a pretty varied back catalogue but clearly that's not the point and I have far better things to do than arguing with obvious random troll accounts such as yourself.

I've owned 5 front engined 4 cylinder Porsches (944 and 968 variants) and have no problem in principle with 4 cylinder Porsches. I had a 2.0 718 Cayman loaner for a day and did about 170 miles around some fine Welsh roads when my 981S was in for service a couple of years ago. There were some notable improvements over my 981 such as the quicker steering rack with a bit more feel and overall performance felt similar. But I was completely put off by the agricultural feel and roughness of the engine. I didn't have an issue with the noise (the PSE on my 981 is too juvenile for my liking) but I felt this spoiled the whole character of the car. A few years ago we had two 987S gen 1 Caymans in the family. That was a real opportunity to compare subtle but noticeable differences between nominally identical cars. Mine had a Carnewal exhaust whilst my Son's was standard. The Carnewal is a well regarded modification but it did subtly change not only the sound but the overall smoothness and feel of the drive train. It got to the point where I really enjoyed jumping into my son's standard car for the turbine smoothness of the drive train. Unfortunately the roughness of the 718 2.0 was off the scale compared to the minor variations in any of the 6 cylinder P cars we've owned. So coming to the OP's question of which Cayman for up to £45K, for me I'd love to say a manual 987 R but I gave up looking for the spec I wanted when I realised it doesn't exist in the UK market. I settled for my 981S a few years ago but there are definitely things about it I'm not that keen on, particularly PDK, lack of steering feel vs 987, and over-servo'd brakes. But I'm struggling with a better alternative anywhere around the same price point. I've recently been trying to summon up some enthusiasm for a 718 GTS 4.0. The GT4 is too lairy for my street-only use but I don't really need the extra performance over my 981 as I have a Caterham 420R for thrills and track days. So I'm struggling to justify another £30 - 40K on top of my 981. I've thought about a manual 981 GTS but there aren't that many about and most GTSs are not as well spec'd as my S. I struggle to justify the £10 - 15K price delta for a GTS just for some alcantara and contrast stitching, especially if it's missing some of the options I already have. But if the right car comes up, I'd consider changing. Although overall values are heading downwards, I suspect the S vs GTS delta will broadly remain. So in conclusion a good spec manual GTS for around £45K would be the sweet spot for me.

anonymous said: [redacted] You'd be surprised, there was one guy on here with a 200+ month posting history and upwards of 40,000 posts before he was finally banned earlier this year. I think he recently started posting from various new accounts before they also got banned as well.

jimbo761 said: I have far better things to do than arguing with obvious random troll accounts such as yourself. Totally outrageous to call him a troll account. Someone who doesn’t share your opinion and all of a sudden they’re trolling? Odd behaviour

Voodoo Blue said: I for one respect anyone who has properly tried a 4 cylinder 718 and decided it's not for them. The noise out the back is different and for some that's just too much which is such a shame as the rest of the car is so good. This is what I did. People like what they like. I ended up in the 981 F6 as the noise and engine just won me over. Had I been coming into a decent car for the first time, I'd probably have ended up in the 718 F4T. It's such a great all around package. Having tried both, I felt the 718 F4T was an effective if slightly unexciting part of a superb sports car. The F6 in the 981 makes and dominates the car. The engine is obtrusive, loud, it needs loads of revs, and at no point are you ever in doubt that you're in a sports car. The 718 was an awesome package, but with no individual item blowing me away. With the 718 I left thinking the car was great, but I wasn't beeming from ear to ear in the way you do when you know that's your next car. With the 981, a blip of the throttle and I knew I'd be running through loan quotes when I got home. One could argue I was blinded by the engine, but people have preferences. Mine at the time were noise, response, revs, etc. I also wasn't willing to wait years for a car, excluding arguably the perfect car - 718 GTS 4.0. At 45k, the choices are gonna be 981S/GTS, 987R, 718 F4T. Drive them all and buy the one you like the most. People getting tribal over these cars are straight up dribbling morons. They're lumps of metal lads, get a grip some of you.

jimbo761 said: anonymous said: [redacted] You'd be surprised, there was one guy on here with a 200+ month posting history and upwards of 40,000 posts before he was finally banned earlier this year. I think he recently started posting from various new accounts before they also got banned as well. Troll…. Ok chap….you’re the one who jumped on my perfectly reasonable opinion, just because I didn’t like the car you bought….I found it a bit soulless and numb in comparison to the 981’s, that’s an opinion…. I’ve also tracked a fair few cars, still have an S1 Elise track car which is used as intended….seems we’re equally qualified Just because someone holds a different opinion to you doesn’t make them wrong, talking s te, a troll or anything else. Troll….

Cayman R !

Voodoo Blue said: TJC46 said: Thanks for all the suggestions so far. I think the Cayman R is a bit too hardline for me as my first Porsche. I need something i could use every day. The above post makes good sense to me. What i have looked at so far, only online though, has me torn between a very nice spec 2.7 981 18000 miles on a 64 plate £36k A couple of decent spec 3.4 S both almost 20000 miles, both on a 13 plate between £37 to £39k. But quite a few 718 Cayman low down on the spec but 67 and 18 plate reg all less than 16k miles, some less than 10k miles, all between £42 to £45k. I think in the new year i need to drive examples of the above and make a decision that way. I would not rule out a PDK Porsche but a few years ago I had a BMW M2 Comp for 12 months which was auto, exactly like the PDK system on a Porsche, paddles on the steering wheel, various sport modes etc It was over 400 bhp so a very quick car. Only problem was it all felt a bit soulless. Anyway back to the search, In the way of specification, what are must haves ? I would agree that the 981 flat sixes sound fantastic, especially with PSE switch on but the tech inside is a little dated and the steering isn't quite as positive as a 987 or 718 IMO. We've still got a 981 2.7 Cayman and my wife loves it so much it'll probably stay with us until she can't get in (or more likely out) of it any more. I had a 2.0 718 Boxster for 18 months and thought it was a brilliant car for the money. Yes it doesn't sound like a flat 6 but actually with PSE switched on it sounded pretty good in a different way. The cars built before 2018 didn't have PPF installed so sound even more raucous The best thing about the 2.0 though is the performance. It's a typical turbo unit with lots of low down grunt and although there is a slight hesitation when pulling away, the turbo lag is virtually imperceptible. On paper is quicker than a 981S and not far off a GTS, the brakes are better, the steering is better, the standard headlights while not as good as LEDs are better, the interior tech is better and while it's basically the same car underneath it feels a step up in terms of quality. Oh, and it'll do mid/high 30s or more on a run if economy is important. If I hadn't had the opportunity to get into a 4.0 718 my 2.0 would still be sat on the drive now. The only other thing I would say is don't dismiss the PDK if you decide a 718 is the car for you, the power delivery is so much better than a manual but understand it's not for everyone. Good luck with your search. And when you are testing, if you stretch to Pre 2018 718S with PSE and drive in Sport, not Sport+ to give you a full dish of the exhaust note especially when RPM is above 3000 Edited by LamedonM on Tuesday 27th December 13:39

For Porsche’s at that price, I’d jump on the the Cayman R bandwagon with the previous posters. Not a Cayman, but outside of the Cayman R, I’d be very tempted with a 997 Turbo: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2006-06-PORSCHE-911-TUR...

A "what Cayman to buy" thread that has descended into 718 is rubbish from people that own or have owned 981s.............and a smattering off buy a Cayman R.......... Pistonheads never disappoints......... To the OP - Options - a total minefield, what some say are critical others will say are point less (probably dictated by what they have) in my opinion you'll want auto climate - because the manual version is annoying, and everything else is a preference. Everyone on here will tell you you must have the leather dash else you'll feel like you're driving round in a skip - it is a nice to have, but lots don't have it - the options on the 981 weren't all that different to the 718 currently - so maybe spend some time on the configurator.

A bit of trolling on this thread, some unpleasant characters about not helping the reputation of Porsche owners if they do actually own one. Anyway am in a similar situation myself as plan to swap out my current aging one next year, just not sure to what, yet. R is nice but a bit too old now IMO. Will line up some test drives in the new year.

Arthur59765 said: A bit of trolling on this thread, some unpleasant characters about not helping the reputation of Porsche owners if they do actually own one. Anyway am in a similar situation myself as plan to swap out my current aging one next year, just not sure to what, yet. R is nice but a bit too old now IMO. Will line up some test drives in the new year. To be honest that's the best advice anyone can give. Try them all and make your own mind up. They all have good points and bad and only you'll be able to determine if any of the bad points outweigh the good to the point of crossing it off your list. As always, good luck with your search and if you have any questions there are some pretty decent people on here who have a wealth of experience that will be more than happy to help.

I owned an R for three years and covered 60,000 miles. Sold it simply because it was a question of either spend a large sum on replacing PDK and refreshing suspension, exhaust etc or upgrading. I chose the latter option and bought a 981 GTS which has now also covered 60,000 miles, and counting. The R was raw - no air con, lightest possible spec inc, carbon buckets etc. All controls had a precise, delicate feel which was gradually lost over the miles as components wore. The GTS is a bit of a limo in comparison, but still a great drive. This time I will overhaul it rather than trade it on. I did consider getting another R, but they are now circa 12 years old. Time on its own impacts components. If you get a low mileage one you will still need to spend some money to get it to as new spec. If you really want to use it I would pay less for a higher mileage and recommission it to my own spec. But I am happy to stick with the 981 (manual) as it is a bit more modern, E.g. PCCM, NVH, etc. and it is the right one for me. Everyone will have their own preferences and mix of requirements. Enjoy searching for yours.

anonymous said: [redacted] On Xmas morning I saw a 981 S on the M4, first time ever seen a 981. I must say it did look great shape wise, then a few miles on I passed a 718Gt4 (again first time I have ever seen one) and that too looked pretty darn special, yes it did look sharper - still preferred the classic cuteness of the R but they all look very purposeful and standout compared to the other cars.

Owned a few caymans myself but here’s an idea why not buy a good low miles 987.2CS for under £30k. I would buy one on 18s and no PASM. Most cars this old will need at some point attention to the suspension so if and when why not upgrade to say KWs instead of replacing with original parts perhaps and then a few quid on manifolds/exhaust filters and remap I believe 350hp can be had. Then imo you will have a car better than any other factory 987/981! But as mentioned best advice is go try a few and see what you prefer Edited by GT4P on Wednesday 28th December 22:49

I had a similar amount of money and my feeling went like this. 987R- fantastic cars but i couldn't get over the dated interior for that sort of money. 981S -i ended up buying the perfect one for me at the right price, i love it. 981GTS - i didn't want to comprise on colour or choice really and the right one never came up with sub 50k mileage in the 12m i was looking. I bought and love my 981S with all the GTS options but with proper cruise and 14 way seats. Its perfect for me and came in slightly below budget with sub 30k miles.

neil jdmr said: I had a similar amount of money and my feeling went like this. 987R- fantastic cars but i couldn't get over the dated interior for that sort of money. 981S -i ended up buying the perfect one for me at the right price, i love it. 981GTS - i didn't want to comprise on colour or choice really and the right one never came up with sub 50k mileage in the 12m i was looking. I bought and love my 981S with all the GTS options but with proper cruise and 14 way seats. Its perfect for me and came in slightly below budget with sub 30k miles. Will shortly be in the market for a car, but the 987 steering was just so good compared to later versions. I really couldn’t live with poor steering feedback, will test drive a few options as suggested. Perhaps an Emira with the hydraulic steering will be a good option.

john41901 said: Will shortly be in the market for a car, but the 987 steering was just so good compared to later versions. I really couldn’t live with poor steering feedback, will test drive a few options as suggested. Perhaps an Emira with the hydraulic steering will be a good option. I can't get pass the flaw that water sitting in the boot lid goes into the boot when opening. Seems the 'that'll do' spirit of British Leyland lives on in Lotus.

[/quote] Will shortly be in the market for a car, but the 987 steering was just so good compared to later versions. I really couldn’t live with poor steering feedback, will test drive a few options as suggested. Perhaps an Emira with the hydraulic steering will be a good option. [/quote] See now ive heard that said so many times but i thought then and still think now the 981 steering is really very good. No its never going to be hydraulic so some feel is lost but its direct and puts the car exactly where you want it which is confidence inspiring. I tracked my previous car extensively which was also hydraulic steering (fd rx7), but for a road car i think the 981/718 steering is still very good.

Any road car is a compromise for any sort of track day driving, if you want to do it properly you would turn up there with a car on a trailer minimum. Probably a tough pill to swallow for some on here but once we have accepted that what we are talking about here are just nice road cars that do a decent job of driving quickly it is a bit pointless trying to aim at perfection. I have yet to drive a car that does everything well, it doesn’t exist, the closer a car is to a track car the worse it will be for normal road use. You don’t tend to see many track focussed cars with an electric targa roof, 14 way seats and untold other kilos of junk from the options list, there is a reason for that and it isn’t financial. Obsessing about one fault as some do on here is absolutely pointless, appreciating the overall package for what it actually is must surely be a better way of judging the car for what it is – a decent road car. Go out test drive a few, form your own opinion of what the car is and disregard a lot of the nonsense you read on here posted by self elected experts, nobody knows what you want to drive better than you do.

anonymous said: [redacted] Given the content of some of those pages/posts would it matter

julian987R said: On Xmas morning I saw a 981 S on the M4, first time ever seen a 981. I must say it did look great shape wise, then a few miles on I passed a 718Gt4 (again first time I have ever seen one) is that true or are you just having a laugh? until a few days ago you had never seen a 981? how can you (so often) criticise a car you've never even seen, let alone driven? i feel that all Caymans - 987/981/982 look so much better in the metal. photos/videos just don't do justice

JasonSteel said: julian987R said: On Xmas morning I saw a 981 S on the M4, first time ever seen a 981. I must say it did look great shape wise, then a few miles on I passed a 718Gt4 (again first time I have ever seen one) is that true or are you just having a laugh? until a few days ago you had never seen a 981? how can you (so often) criticise a car you've never even seen, let alone driven? i feel that all Caymans - 987/981/982 look so much better in the metal. photos/videos just don't do justice I am not joking. I don't criticise the 981 or Gt4. I have said I prefer the 987 shape but I don't criticise the rest of the models. I may question spec, and the cabin noise (though not experience first hand) of the the Gt4RS, and the 718 PDK I test drove, but I don't criticise the models per se...and yep the 981 in the flesh looked fantastic, a bit chunky, not as svelte as the R, but still a stunning car.

I was in a similar boat end of summer 21 looking at my first Porsche. Managed to find a 981 GTS on a private sale with 2yrs OPC warranty remaining just above my budget. After having a 981S sold from under me by a well regarded Porsche specialist I bit the bullet and paid the extra. Absolutely love the car and for me the noise it makes is one of the biggest aspects of driving it. Have been in a 718 2.5 and it feels faster but I'd still not give up the noise of the F6. To my eyes I prefer the front of the 981 GTS compared to the 718 GTS but the back of the 718 is nicer. I like the separate exhausts vs the centre exit pipes on mine. As a few have said. Go test drive the 3.4 981 S/GTS and a 718 2.0 and 2.5 if in budget and make your own mind up which you would sooner live with. Happy hunting

julian987R said: I am not joking. I don't criticise the 981 or Gt4. I have said I prefer the 987 shape but I don't criticise the rest of the models. i'm hardly gonna go back and look through threads but pretty sure you've criticised the 981 particularly like i said, all Caymans look (even) better in the metal so i would always recommend seeing them just surprised that you'd never seen a 8991 til recently

quite a few nice looking 981 GTS across Pistonheads classified & autotrader, for under £45k. FWIW, on mine (which was the car first specd & bought new by fellow pistonhead TDT), my fav options were the stance & handling you get with X73 option instead of PASM, the 18-way memory seats, and leather dash...although maybe at GTS level they all have that?

to the other point - perhaps Julian lives on Foula