Base Porsche 718 Cayman 2.0L Driven - Is This The One To Buy?

In today's video, having recently driven the Cayman GTS 4.0, I now take out the entry level car to see just how different it is - and whether this is actually better.
#Porsche #Cayman #718
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[@TricksyTricksyBovises]

For anyone out there who isn't a car reviewer for a living and sits in a different car every week - I have a 718 Cayman with a manual gearbox. My first car was a Renault Clio. My next cars were Renault Clios. I reached a new level of earning after what feels like a never ending abyss of working, and I knew I could treat myself. I decided to test drive a few different cars - A35, m2, Giulia Quadrifoglio and then a Cayman - I drive on a lot of B-roads to and from work and my goal was to pick the one that would make me love that drive. I have never regretted choosing the Cayman. It is not the best car in the world. I do not refute the criticisms of reviewers. The manual is great - but the gearing is far too long. I could quite happily leave it in 3rd for a whole journey and it would take me from 20 round a slow corner to one hundr-... to 50 on the straight ahead of me. It's not the fastest car in the world. But it feels fast enough to me. My passengers say it feels fast to them. I know that every time I get in that car I am seconds away from getting points on my license. I did get points on my license. But I love it. If you do not need one of the other cars I have mentioned for practicality reasons, and you are looking for B-road fun in this bracket. Don't let the reviews sway you too much. They're not wrong in a lot of their criticisms but... for this money, and to experience a mid-engined car of this kind of quality - go for it. Live a little. You're not a car reviewer. If you can't afford the S or the GTS - this is still going to feel like a rocket. It'll feel special. Most of your friends will think it's special. Except your boss who probably drives some kind of battleship executive saloon with sport badging in comfort and automatic. He will say things like "haha how many litres is that got? its a 4-cylinder HAHA". And then some dude who drives a golf but watches every car review will tell you how you should have got the S or a Golf R. This isn't a criticism of your review, I appreciate it of course and enjoy watching them. I just know I almost didn't choose the Cayman because of reviews, and I hope if someone out there is watching this with the intention to buy, they see this and give it some more thought. Enjoy whatever you pick. Pick what YOU want. And if I needed the practicality, I probably would have picked the Alfa. The infotainment sucks but - I think you need to experience that car now. The universe is giving you that option - take it. A Ferrari engine. You get to be that guy in the pub who mentions he has a car with a Ferrari engine. Everyone will make fun of you for it. But who cares? You have a Ferrari engine in your car.

[@tiresomeandy507]

Yeah I have a golf r which I LOVE, but I can 100% guarantee it isn't as fun down a B road as your porsche.

[@astronmr20]

Exactly. You can enjoy more of this car's bandwidth more of the time.

[@xmodMAN76]

top of 3rd is 105mph, i know cause thats what i got pulled over for

[@JohnFromAccounting]

A Porsche is a Porsche. The 944 was a front engine 4-cylinder and that was still a great car.

[@Hypersonik]

A nice post. You're absolutely right - pick what 'YOU' want. Too many times people don't do that though. As for fast... Any car with >300bhp and 100mph 6-8 seconds later. That's crazy. I've driven cars with over 700bhp and the things don't stop wheelspinning until 130mph. I mean that's great for a show piece, but becomes boring quickly. I mean when you get to track, everything feels slow and you always want more power, but once you accept that, you forget about it and enjoy the day. And this is why feel and noise are important parts of the experience IMHO.

[@capuchinseven]

You left it out of sport mode, it’s literally night and day difference, you openly and clearly leave it out of sport mode and then complain it's laggy and doesn't pull. My 718 base is faster than my 981 GTS, there’s a reason they gave the 718 the 981 S brakes.

[@e5c32]

apparently this man can’t feel the difference in throttle response between normal and sport mode. funniest thing i’ve read all year

[@ralfulrich6254]

Yeah. Also the little turbo lag gives it character. If you don't like the lag keep the rpms above 5k and go. Only thing bad about it is launching with manual transmission. You can't build pressure before so it is slow off the line. Pdk launch is better.

[@estrenuo]

@@e5c32 I’m not surprised that he didn’t feel it for obvious reasons to me. To keep it as friendly as possible, he isn’t as light footed as the Porsche itself.

[@Kr0nicridah]

Your base 718 definitely isn’t faster than the 981 GTS. Check the 100-200 times and 1/4 mile trap speeds - there’s still a noticeable performance gap between the two

[@capuchinseven]

@@Kr0nicridah MY 718 (which was a T with the GTS chassis, active suspension and LSD) was faster than MY 981 GTS. This isn’t arguable or debatable, MY times were faster in the 718. This is also shown by places like Fastestlaps around tracks like Hockenheim GP where the base 718 (not even the T) sets better times than the 981 GTS. I also just looked up the in gear acceleration times (which were being tested in this video), the 718 base is faster in both 80 to 120 and 80 to 160 kph than the 981 GTS.

[@steveallin601]

As an owner of one of these, I can tell you that they are a fantastic car. Fast enough and agile enough for anyone - not many of us take these things onto a track.

[@Mauritsjacobsen]

I have tested the 718 base model and i agree, its a great car. it just depends on who the buyer is and what they expect i guess.

[@diegotroco3990]

@@Mauritsjacobsen Agree, most people buy these kind of cars because they like how they look. Not many care about performance or driving fast, so, the base cayman/Boxster makes sense if you want to be seen in a Porsche I guess.

[@seigma5340]

@@DaleSteel I mean, the size is not really an issue in my opinion, the problem is to make it right

[@plektosgaming]

@@DaleSteel Tall gears plus a super hesitant turbo ( to pass emissions most likely ) means that it drives like an American car with a turbo 4. If you've ever rented a SUV with a tiny turbo 4 - it's that same feeling. Good when you slam the pedal to the floor, but otherwise, it's utterly devoid of life. With Porsche's tall gears, though, that means it's useless unless maybe to just drive it in 2nd and 3rd gear all the time to keep the turbo permanently spooled up, because of pesky things like speed limits.

[@tjroelsma]

@@plektosgaming That could be the problem, but that's a solvable problem. Instead of tuning for horsepower, Porsche could tune the engine for torque. Saab were masters at that with the 9000 and 9-5 series: relatively low horsepower but a sea of torque. Funny enough older Porsches were also renowned for their torque over horsepower. So the question remains: how did they get it so wrong? Or maybe they did this on purpose to keep a decent gap between this 2.0 and the 2.5 liter engine?

[@subaruboy54]

I feel so sorry for Dan. This guy took his brand new pride of joy, to which he spent his hard earned cash to just talk shit about it for 13 minutes. Don’t worry Dan, you built that car just to your specification and nobody else so I can’t fault you for that. I surely admire that. Don’t listen to this Jay.

[@richfixescars]

It's a good honest review though. Just shows that not all Porsches are great. It's a shame as this guy put his hard earned cash into something just because it has a Porsche badge, rather than because it's a good sports car.

[@danwilliamson1991]

As long as Dan is happy, that's all that matters right?

[@subaruboy54]

@@danwilliamson1991 100%!

[@idokwatcher2062]

I'd agree if it were a manual, not many options left if you want RWD manual sports car. Whole Audi and Mercedes ranges are invalidated, and Toyota Supra too. Nissan 370Z is a fat pig and all M2 generations have a critical engine flaw (crank hub). But automatic? Smells like badge appeal to me.

[@subaruboy54]

@@idokwatcher2062 I disagree, Dan deliberately selected the PDK because he WANTED it. Doesn’t make it any less of a sports car. The fact that Porsche offers both PDK and Manual for all Caymans is quite amazing, a car for everyone. Definitely not ‘badge appeal’ there mate. Don’t forget there’s people out there who want a sports car but physically cannot drive a manual 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@resnonverba137]

I have no doubt Dan is regretting his decision to let you test his car. Poor chap.

[@blarkdexture8899]

Most do

[@mihailhidler5400]

He s a bloke, not a chap

[@duncanashton8359]

But you know when you buy a 718 the engine is a bit meh. If you can get your head beyond that then 2nd hand they are very good vfm.

[@TheHungryHorace]

Savage

[@sachachanyan]

@@mihailhidler5400 Who’s to say...? He could also be a geezer. 😆

[@MAXREVS]

The best Cayman is the one you can afford, they’re all great. What other car model on the market today offers such a great range of driving pleasure? If you found the GTS 4.0 stiff I’d love to see you review the GT4 as a road car. It’s nice to hear contrasting opinions against the mainstream media, and at the end of the day we’re all entitled to our opinions so keep these Cayman videos coming!

[@EvoraGT430]

Lotus provide even more driving pleasure. Alpine do, too.

[@MAXREVS]

@@EvoraGT430 Yep, I know a guy who had a few Caymans and is now driving a late model Elise. What I meant was with the Cayman platform, you can get a soft and comfortable Cayman right the way up to a GT4, and soon a GT4RS. I suspect even the softest Lotus would be way too firm for JayEmm if he didn’t like the GTS 4.0

[@MikeMcCarthy240sx]

This is what I was thinking. "This sports car with one of the more aggressive trims rides aggressively on shitty roads."

[@pabasamdee163]

Lol, you didn't accelerate with the sport button on. That's all it takes to transform the car. Watch Nick Murray. He actually knows what he's talking about.

[@potatochobit]

No one else can have a pool in their porsche like nick.

[@gileswardle76]

Recently taken delivery of a 718 Cayman T manual. Not getting turbo lag above 2000rpm. This is an astonishingly capable car. Same weight and torque as the first gen 996 GT3 and the torque is available from a shade over 2000rpm. Handling is sublime. Engine performance unequivocally better than previous 981 base Cayman 6 cylinder. I’ve raced Caterhams and owned 997s in the past and I’m one very happy bunny with my 718. Check out Janko Lindt’s video on the 718 for an alternative viewpoint. If you’re insistent that Porsche should have 6 bangers, then I would politely suggest you look up Fuhrman flat 4.

[@final_mile_music9713]

There IS no turbo lag. But there IS a boost threshold where the turbo kicks in. This is a non issue in a manual car. I’m NEVER outside the zone. So the response is fantastic. Don’t let these reviewers put you off the 2 liter. If you’re in one, particularly a manual and preferably with sports Chrono, PASM and PTV, you’ll be amazed. The drive is sublime and incredible fun. For me, it’s the pick of the range. Tourquey, responsive and an engine you can actually exploit of the road.

[@MP-Fin]

Hello. I watch a lot of car channels on youtube. Past few weeks I have seen your videos pop up in recommendations, and I have watched a few. After this video I will subscribe, I like your presentation! Hello from Finland! :)

[@acchaladka]

His channel really is among the best. Check his review of the Ford Model T, I think that’s a classic. So to speak. Hello from Canada.

[@Birmingham_racing]

Brilliant channel well subscribing

[@TheLEMRR]

I appreciate the review without sugar-coating your thoughts, Jay. I think the 718 is a killer platform, and by today's standards, relatively affordable. Good to know what to expect from the base powertrain should you be looking for more of a daily/commuter type Cayman vs, a fire-breathing week-ender. Cheers!

[@paulb7207]

never base purchase decisions, especially as expensive as a sports car, on stupid youtube videos like this one. I own 718 base, not sure on which planet the dude was born on. TEST DRIVE before you buy. The dude must be an actor or something...

[@hughrosen5146]

As others have said, the fact that the car was not being driven in sport mode makes a huge difference. Far more responsive and spirited in sport mode, at least that has been my experience with a base 6spd 718.

[@lyttonscott]

What a shot at the beginning with the headlight’s reflection in the puddle.. marvellous filming details 💪

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thankyou!

[@Braglemaster123]

@@JayEmmOnCars Your was too fat, weighing the car down. Please loose 65 lbs.

[@sagetheowlfatfeathery2083]

We’ve ordered a base Boxster for my wife; we had one on loan for a couple of days. I never felt that the car was laggy or underpowered at all (my own car is a Maserati Granturismo). In fact it felt bloody quick down a country road. Sure it doesn’t sound like a V8, but then it isn’t.

[@HIOP0]

Shame you succumbed to opening up to your tragic error. If you believe that comparing it to your own car is a fair test, you are mistaken.

[@sagetheowlfatfeathery2083]

@@HIOP0 Care to explain? I don’t understand what you mean.

[@memememine1]

Nice to know. I drove a 2.7 base boxster of the 981 gen and it felt almost like a honda vtec engine where it barley moved unless it was within 3000 rpm of the redline. It did sound amazing. I spent a lot of time with my foot to the floor even around town. However the car was ridiculously fun, one of the most fun cars I've ever driven.

[@christopherandrews299]

Totally agree, definitely does not lack power. Feels so much faster than a 981 2.7.

[@SJ-bk1zm]

I've seen lots and lots of reviews of the 718 base model, and every single time the driver was amazed with the power it produces, so I don't think this opinion is very accurate. I wish you lots of fun with your Boxster. :-)

[@thedrivebygg]

Great video Jay, agree with a couple of comments below, I took a base boxster 2.0l with Pdk out and loved it, I thought it was pretty rapid and no lag, maybe the cayman needs looking at.

[@karamellisiertesfallobst8303]

After all, you have to keep in mind that there are very few models as unique and catchy as the Cayman on the market today. Most of its rivals, such as the Audi TT or the new Supra, are only derivatives of spare parts donors. Nevertheless, the value retainment is excellent. I would definetively go for the base model equipped with PASM and a manual gear box.

[@RobBoothAutomotive]

Recently bought my base 718 Cayman, moving from an M240i, below are my thoughts: - Interior quality is light years ahead of the BMW in terms of quality and materials used; - Engine is aurally much less inspiring than the mighty B58, but really rewards at the top end (whereas the BMW drove more like a big diesel, encouraging you to upshift at 4.5k). Below 2k revs, there is noticeable lag in the 2.0L, but once up and away it feels almost (emphasis on almost) as quick as the 240 with very little lag. Clearly my opinion is contrary to JayEmm's, my only explanation is mine is properly run in (35k miles); and is a 2016 so pre-PPF; - Ride and refinement was better in the M240i as expected, the Porsche has reasonably high NVH (wide tyres do not help this); - Get the Cayman on a b-road, and it really does show that it's a ground-up sports car, whereas the BMW felt like an ordinary car, albeit with a mega engine in the front. Turn-in, steering, gear feel, brake feel - all massively better in the Porsche. Very enjoyable video James, you're more than welcome to review my 2016 (pre-PPF) base Cayman manual if you'd like a second go - I believe I live fairly nearby.

[@ApothecaryTerry]

Question from a 981S owner- was there anything specific about the 718 that made you chose that over a 981? Based on my experiences I totally agree with everything you've said, so I'm just interested in the choice of engine. From my research, running costs in my 3.4 seem fairly identical to a 718 so I didn't even consider that (sound was my priority). I've not driven a 718. Hopefully I'm not coming across as saying "you've made the wrong choice"- the 718 gets simplistically labelled as a 981 with a worse engine and slightly updated tech. I'm interested to hear from someone who (I assume) made a conscious decision to buy the 718 instead to get a less biased view.

[@extrapolator2000]

@Rob Booth Automotive - as a base 718 Boxster owner, my experience shares with yours, and not with Jay Emm's. Mine is a 2018 model, barely run in at 12k miles. Did they do something to the 2020 model? I find it way quick enough for UK roads, plenty of power on tap, didn't see the point in the 'S' for UK use, and I think it loves to rev out. Just a pity you're already over the UK limit when it does. JayEmm says it is just over 60mph when it revs out - mine redlines in second at 74mph! And enjoys every moment in getting there. Sure there's a little lag from low down, but I find this actually makes the car more relaxing in town. It'll doddle around the city streets easily, without feeling its trying to bite you, and when you're out of town, drop a notch and keep it on the boil and it rewards. Sure it'd be nicer to have been a flat 6, and I won't lie, I'd love a GTS4.0 one day, but I personally enjoy the simple flat 4. Its honest and sounds good, and the car is really rather too rapid when you let it off the leash.

[@extrapolator2000]

@@ApothecaryTerry , hi Terry, I'm another who chose the 718, so can give you my view here. I bought a 2 year old 718 2018 model a year ago. I knew the 981 would sound better, but my reasoning was one more borne of the wish to start a bit newer with a manufacturers warranty still partly there. I've been messing around with an old vehicle for a while (its still on the drive as well as I can't bear to part company yet) and have seen what goes wrong etc with old vehicles, and didn't want to add a second project. I also wanted to make sure that as my first Porsche it was going to give me the drive as the manufacturer intended, with nothing worn or odd. I didn't want to get a bad impression from choosing unwisely. I wanted to buy from a Porsche dealership for added peace of mind. I also thought the interior update on the 718 was better looking than its predecessor. So really it was a question of newness and unwillingness to take on additional risk, plus a desire to own one that definitely had nothing wrong so I couldn't get a bad impression. I accepted the turbo engine. As with all things, there's a compromise to be had, and budget, spec and age all play a part in that. I test drove the car, and liked it, notwithstanding turbo and a flat 4, and figured I'd give it go. It doesn't have to be forever.

[@RobBoothAutomotive]

@@ApothecaryTerry Hi Terry. I really wanted a manual car, which made a 981 S very difficult - having looked at the market every day for about 4 months, no 981 S manuals came up for sale which had a decent spec or weren't silly money (i.e. £38-42k). I test drove a 2.7 981 and although it sounded great, the lack of torque and useable performance just felt like too much of a step back from the BMW. I get the Cayman isn't a straight line car, but the 2.7 has rather weak everyday performance (lack of torque). When I went to view my 718 for the first time, I very much went with the expectation of not liking it (mostly due to the sound), but was very pleasantly surprised. The shifting feel and steering of the 718 to me also felt better than those of the 981, although that may be placebo (side note, the M240i has the worst steering of any modern car I've driven). Fuel wise, the 718 will get about 36 mpg on a careful run. On a b-road hoon with the turbo always on spool, the consumption is hilariously bad (12mpg ish) - I suspect worse than the 981 S!

[@idokwatcher2062]

Thank you. Very relevant comparison. I always believed N55 was the last of the "diesel like" engines that runs out of breath at 5000RPM, even in the M2 it did. But surprisingly the B58 dyno graphs do not show any giant evolutionary leap.

[@edombre4637]

Mat from carwow has recently done a drag race base cayman 2.0L pdk vs cayman GTS manual vs Mustang mach 1 manual - well the mustang came last in everything, and the base cayman was quicker than the GTS on takeoff but the GTS eventually overtook it at higher speeds. Their bottom line was how impressed they were with the base model cayman. I was seriously thinking of buying a mustang, just for that V8 engine, but after watching that video, I have been looking at base caymans!!

[@bobjones7776]

It was a GT4 actually. So the base pdk beat the GT4 by quite a margin until the RPMs came into play at over 6000. Even in rolling race the lag on NA was too much the base zipped away.

[@alastairdelaney6386]

You can spec the GTS 4.0 without the lowered suspension setup. This is free - so just personal preference. I would imagine that would make the GTS ride like this car, but have the good sound of the 6 cyl. Best of both worlds?

[@simonbussey7530]

There's an awful trend where everyone seems to want their car as low as possible. They forget the whole point of suspension travel and why it's there. Picking the lowered option (especially on British roads) is usually the wrong option..

[@alastairdelaney6386]

@@simonbussey7530 I agree. Which is why I have just specced mine without the lowered suspension.

[@bmwman1981]

Why would you effect the handling by having the raised suspension the whole point of a gts is to have good road handling and power that’s why it’s lowered a lesser power model doesn’t need it to be lowered as it doesn’t carry the same speed into the bends

[@alastairdelaney6386]

Many reviews i have read state that you wont feel the difference unless you track it. Also, do you see the 6 cyl on a “lesser” model?

[@UltimateAccuracy]

@@bmwman1981 The purpose of suspension is to maintain tyre contact with the road. Lowering the car reduces travel, you compensate by stiffening the spring rate which on less than perfect roads unsettles the car. This reduces traction/grip to so that you need to reduce speed compared to a more compliant car that maintains more road contact more of the time. HTH

[@eddiemanuk1983]

AutotopNL absolutely loved the base 718 boxster. Was quick and sounded mint.

[@nickgreen2497]

As a 981 Cayman owner, and having driven a 718 S, I appreciate the 4 cyl turbo gives the chassis more of a workout and adds another dimension. But I couldn't live with that sound I'm afraid - the flat 6 rumble/bark/howl is a massive part of Cayman ownership and makes me smile every time I drive it. Horses for courses I guess.

[@edtheduck6219]

I had a 718 for a weekend a couple of years ago and came to much the same conclusions. Everything was good to excellent apart from the joyless engine. When we gave it back to the dealer and said that, he took us round the back and fired up a 981S. No comparison. Why couldn’t they have used something like the engine in the TT RS? Same parts bin...

[@nickgreen2497]

@@edtheduck6219 Yeah it's a real own goal by Porsche. I get the need to meet emissions targets and all that, but taking away one of the best bits of the car can't be the solution.

[@plektosgaming]

This is the same problem you have with so many recent cars. The 6 is just superior because of the linear power delivery and utterly predictable shift points. As an example, you can look at the Mustang with the turbo 4. You drive it ( with the absurdly tall gears ) and it's two cars - laggy turbo that is either off and coasting like a stodgy sedan or your foot to the floor to wake it up after way to long of a time thinking about it. Very odd - a sort of Jekyll and Hyde sort of personality. I test drove one of these a while back before Covid and that was my initial comment about the laggy turbo. "This drives like the base Mustang?" Just the wrong engine and absolutely terrible lag, even with manual mode.

[@skramer6483]

Yep... I’ve had a few 718 Boxsters and Caymans when my 981 CS has been in service and warranty work. I do like the look of the 718 Caymans, I’m not a convertible fan. The interior is nicely up dated, the paddles a nicer feel in their operation and the PCM much improved. It’s has the incremental improvement that Porsche does so well but as good as it clearly is, I found it soulless. The F4 just doesn’t have the drama the flat 6 adds to the mix. If I was to every move to a 718, for me it would have to be a 4ltr model. This a purely my personal opinion, certainly not saying as fact the 981 is a better car or anyone who has or wants a 718 F4 is mistaken. It’s all preference.

[@Hypersonik]

As a 981 owner, get your engine remapped and then book yourself in for facial cramp relief after you can't stop grinning. Sport Chrono/Sport Plus is soda water compared to the actual performance that can be unlocked with both the engine and PDK.

[@MayurPatelZA]

I live in Johannesburg South Africa. The naturally aspirated cars take a performance hit at altitude here and the turbos tend to cover that gap. I’ve always thought that this would be a perfect step up from my 2.7 987.1 cayman.

[@jonathanquinn3713]

Ignore the inbred, they are everywhere here. That was a pretty fascinating fact about the turbos covering for the decline.

[@computerhelpcc]

No to the 2.0 L. Same elevation here in Denver and good driving will often lead to much higher. The 2.7 may lack torque but the sound is great, especially at 5,000 rpm as VarioCam kicks in. You have to go with the 2.5 L.

[@-DC-]

300bhp sub 5 seconds to 60 170 mph, hard to take you seriously when you are crying about it being slow when it clearly is nothing of the sort.

[@clu4u]

Right, it’s not a drag racer, it’s a backroad dream.

[@peterADL]

I drove the 2 litre some time ago, and it struggled in low speeds. When it was finally moving, it was ok. I think that the main problem is that it needed smaller turbo, or generally more grunt in low rpm. It feels that it does not want to start moving, no matter what PDK tries to do

[@MichaelJohnson-uo3ef]

@@peterADL Thats how a big turbo works, you have no power in the low range and it builds power to about 3-4k and it dumps boost like a pocket rocket. Put a smaller turbo on and itll be run out well before you hit redline meaning youll dip in torque unless you short shift which leaves your top speed crippled. If this car builds torque and keeps it flat to redline and its fine, because for some retarded reason were dragging the 60s horsepower wars back "this brz needs a turbo but the 718 isnt fast enough but im too poor for either so im going to play forza instead" is the majority of the problem the slugishness you feel isnt the engine its EPA standards for these engines that cause such tall gearing and as such you dont move the wheels as quickly.

[@capuchinseven]

@@peterADL simply put, you don’t know how to drive it. This isn’t an insult, it’s a simple fact. The base 718 is faster around every track tested than a 981 GTS. To suggest the 718 base is slow is frankly laughable but I’ve learned to expect awful views on this channel. He LITERALLY tries to accelerate out of sports mode in the video(the difference is very literally night and day), I didn’t know if I should laugh or cry.

[@yopranay]

Current 718 Base owner and I must say I'm shocked to hear he felt the car was laggy. It makes me wonder if he put it in sport mode or not? I've owned other NA and Turbo cars in the past and my first impression of driving the 718 was how responsive it felt (to me of course). I will say I am the kind of person who like to switch cars every 3 years or so and I'm nearing the time I anticipated I would sell my 718 base and I literally cannot think of another car that I want. I am so in love with the 718. I think it has the perfect amount of power, perfect amount of practicality (I have literally moved apartment to apartment in this car), and its absolutely a joy in the B-Roads because you can really push the car without putting yourself in too much danger. Is the car fast objectively? There are much fast cars out there. Does the car FEEL fast and FEEL amazing to drive. YES!!!!!! If you are considering a 718 Base, I strongly consider you go test-drive one. I was one who listened to the reviews and thought I would never purchase it because of the turbo-4, but when I drove one just to make sure... I was absolutely blown away. P.S Videos do not do justice to the sound of the car. No doubt the Flat-6 sounds better, but the 4 cylinder is not the Subaru u expect lol.

[@realkingrav2265]

I’m planning to get the 2020 781 Base Cayman in 1 1/2 years. Does it get a lot of attention on the road? I’m a bit worried about that.

[@yopranay]

@@realkingrav2265 yea it gets quite a bit of attention going to be honest. I think it’s because mine is sapphire blue. If you get black or a more plain color it will probably get much less!

[@jeffmatz3379]

I don't think he did. At one point he put it in sport mode and immediately turned it off.

[@RobSchlegel]

I find it hard to believe that this car isn’t quick enough with 300 hp and 280 lb ft. I’m sure you need to keep it in the top half of the revs, and the sound is no match for the 6, but come on. 4.9 seconds 0-60 with that chassis is boring?

[@ckneasel]

Agreed, I really think he’s laying it on a little thick... The peak torque is available under 3000rpm as well...

[@Baerchenization]

I think it is because Jay has developed such strong bones... ;) You'll be just fine with the base model.

[@stuartd9741]

Could it be as the engine has only done 5000 miles the engine is a still a little tight. Needs another 10k or so for it to loosen up a bit? Also combined with Porsche's tall gearing really will flatten the response....

[@drbobs8267]

It is quick enough. And the 4.9 seconds is what Porsche publishes, real world testing with a PDK is considerably less. The torque range is from 1900 to 4800 so there is no lag, it’s in his head. The old sixes had a hell of a lot of lag in lower RPMs.

[@Kr0nicridah]

@@drbobs8267 Lag in an NA car?

[@zlatanmorrison8182]

They are lovely cars no doubt, but it is 6 cylinders or bust imho.....I still think the previous 981 designs looks sleek and modern (better than the one in this vid).

[@barbarusbloodshed6347]

yeah, this

[@LilTaco777]

Yeah, one of best parts of driving my 981 is the engine note.

[@JohnFromAccounting]

I much prefer the new styling but a shame about the engine.

[@Hatchbm]

Thank you for the review! Beautiful car! I must say for myself, I must go with the S or GTS. I know I would always be wanting more power. I already take spirited rides in the mountains with much faster cars, and ready to move up in performance. Plus with the S, you get the 911 Turbo steering and the 911 brakes. Totally worth it for me. Glad to hear the PDK and PASM is well worth it.

[@benpenagonzales6014]

Timely! Was speccing one of these last night vs a taycan through work (tax free half price!)

[@snowyren5135]

Don’t forget people up to 1970 just about all Porsches sold to the public were no bigger than 2.0 litres and most were 4 cylinders, I’ve had a 356 and a 911 that were of this configuration and they were fast sports cars. You don’t always need 500bhp to enjoy motoring. What is good about this is that it’s a Porsche so will hold its value without having cost an arm and a leg in the first place.

[@RumblestripDotNet]

Those cars were 1000 lbs lighter too.

[@Hypersonik]

The noise and engine response are the things here, not the power. 300bhp is waaaaay enough for the road and waaay enough for the track to have fun in. But the noise is weak and the throttle response not NA. This detracts from the thrill.

[@JohnAgustinScuderia458595]

Finally a Base Model! 😆😆

[@steverumney7613]

Yes Exactly. And they turn heads more than a GT4 Because we use them :)

[@JohnAgustinScuderia458595]

@@steverumney7613 Amen Bruddah! 🙏

[@bmwman1981]

Why a tiny engine Porsche buy a older bigger engine car

[@steverumney7613]

@@bmwman1981 We buy what is available, or what we want !! The first Porsche's were small 4 cylinders !! Next you'll want a V8.......Soon we will not be allowed even the 4 cylinder :(

[@paulb7207]

@@bmwman1981 because it's faster :-)

[@nekite1]

I know I am biased, but I would love to see a review of a Gulia Veloce ti - preferably in Misano Blue! Pipe dream probably, but one can but hope. Great channel with a good mix of cars presented by a man with a passion!

[@RzogL]

That's a sweet looking car and Dan has specced it just right. White on black, PASM, PDK, PS4s all around and nevermind the silly stuff like contrast stitching. I love that he has disconnected the synthetic engine noise speaker. On paper, non-S models these days are fast enough that I don't really see the point of the S. I suspect that with its smaller engine the 718 handles better than a 6 cylinder car (and even the 6 cylinder cars sound a bit muffled these days) but I would have expected it to also have more mid-range punch and virtually no turbo lag. Maybe something's not quite right with this particular car at the moment, or you didn't press the correct shporty button? I hope Dan enjoys it just as much as I enjoy my manual 986 S (yes, mine sounds great, but honestly, noise isn't everything and no-one ever complained about the sound a 4 cylinder Alpine or Esprit or vintage Porsche make...).

[@nls8520]

I actually appreciate the honesty! Fine review.

[@capuchinseven]

It’s hardly “honest”, given he leaves it out of sport mode. The 718 base is rapid and leaving it in “traffic crawl” mode and then complaining it’s slow and laggy is frankly the most amateur thing I ever seen in a car review.

[@peterrichardson9248]

Brilliant car you either buy the 2 litre or the 4 litre versions both are great in different ways.

[@mikemush9741]

Really nice review! Although I thought there was some rule that British reviewers of any Porsche had to say "bespoke" at least once. I had this exact car and absolutely loved it. I think it all depends on what you're used to. Having driven small underpowered cars (Honda Civics, VW Passats, etc) my whole life, the Cayman was a massive upgrade and felt ridiculously fast. Although I agree that you have to keep the RPM's above about 3200 RPM's to fully enjoy it. But to your point, this is a much more reasonable and obtainable price point. I like that you didn't edit out the car talking back at you. That was quite funny and relatable. Anyway, really enjoyed your review. Well done!

[@davidmcmen]

I think the best way to get one of these is to pick up a second hand one for £35k, saving a further £20k.

[@alexlee-isted5046]

They hold their values pretty well after being a couple of years old too so you won't lose as significant an amount as you would expect

[@davidmcmen]

@@alexlee-isted5046 Yes, but I am not sure these will hold as well as the 981. Hopefully we can get a review of the 2.5, I am looking at replacing my z4 with a 4-5 year old 718 Boxster S. I would like to it make James smile more than this to give me confidence!

[@zaink7037]

I'd love to afford the 981 version. Seen some from £27k which ain't bad. Saw a white one today and that has some road presence 👌

[@dw4525]

The 981 S is a better buy for the same price if you’re concerned about depreciation and want a NA V6. EDIT: six cylinder engine.

[@davidmcmen]

@@zaink7037 Yes, but the £27k models are pretty worn. YOu can get a good clean 2.7 for that but they are slow.

[@Hopgop1]

Did you watch the boost guage in the right hand binnacle screen? Very common on the 2.0 cars for the wastegate to get stuck and you only get 3psi or so of boost.

[@garfieldrawkz]

I was quite disappointed in the way you criticised the Porsche engineers with regards to the wheezy engine performance. I agree with you on the in gear acceleration performance lower down on the rev range but the car is actually very rapid when you drive it full auto mode. The PDK does a wonderful job in giving you the correct gearing 90 percent of the time. Did you even drive it in S mode? Anyway, the base model should at least have the Sport Chrono option, not so much for the lap timer function but more for the S and S+ modes and the Sport Response feature that gives that additional 0.2Bar or so boost for 20s. Great for overtaking. The “kick down” acceleration on the PDK is actually quite good. I’ve owned the previous generation base Cayman models before and believe me, this is much quicker although the engine sounds like crap during hard acceleration. I’m quite happy with my base 718 Cayman as it’s the only model I can afford now. It costs an equivalent of £185,000 where I live.

[@chopinhauers]

£185,000 for 2.0? Where do you live?

[@Hypersonik]

@@chopinhauers Probably HK

[@garfieldrawkz]

Singapore 🥲

[@madfemurfast]

As much as I love my Cayman, not sure I would pay 185K for one! Hope you enjoy it!

[@peterpoppe4855]

you're quite right : my 718 reacts much different (faster) in Sports-mode and Jay didn't try that... (he did for a second but decided to deactivate it straight away)...

[@motorcyclerescuer]

I like it, I think that it has all the looks and luxury of a porsche with decent fuel consumption. It's exactly what I would choose.

[@alandavey3010]

thanks jay ,you make sense i want a base model and enjoy your test drive all my current car are hot rods v8 ,s i have a holden ute 6litre LS2 ,, 6 speed daily driver, goes well , i am 73 and you review says buy one as i can only drive to reasonable speed, self preservation is my goal these days . FROM AUSSIE

[@richardturner4848]

Nice one Dan, nice motor.

[@Johnmcs1]

JayEmm, did the car have Sports Chrono? Did you try it in sports mode if it has? Do you check forums for owners to see what they say about their car? Honestly, go back and drive the car again and put the damn thing into Sports Mode on the Sports Chrono, and you'll find the lag is vastly improved. I've learned that from Rennlist owners. Why the owner gave you his car to ridicule it I don't know. Honestly, I do like your content, as you ain't like all those other 'Silver Spooned' rich kids, but this is just annoyingly poor.

[@jeffreysalzman1497]

You are making me feel very good about my 2006 Cayman S flat 6!

[@capuchinseven]

He openly and clearly leaves it out of sport mode like a clown. The 718 base is faster than my 981 GTS, there’s a reason they gave the 718 the 981 S brakes.

[@ShogunsDojo]

I’d really love a go in one of these as a great chassis really does transcend any shortcomings of a mediocre engine. That said certain cars can be completed with the right motor. I had a 230i with a 2.0 turbo that made a decent sound with good, relatively crisp response above 2k rpm but it just felt as though it was missing something. Upgrading to an M240i confirmed my suspicions that what it needed was two extra cylinders, not for power but rather character. It also needed a limited slip differential as every rear drive car with 200hp or more should have and this was the first thing that went into the M240i. For me I’ve always been a fan of the 2 series, even before the M2 which I also love but I originally wanted an M235i (F22) when they first came out. The 3.0 straight six gives the car real charisma and presence when your behind the wheel, I absolutely love it and it feels like something totally new whilst still being familiar. I imagine it’s the same way with the 4.0 GTS/GT4 cars. The car you want with the engine you expect.

[@Encourageable]

No offense, but I wouldn’t own any BMW. Too many problems. Build quality has deteriorated badly over the last decade.

[@neilburgin4257]

Drove both the base car and 718 Cayman S in 2016 before buying an S. The S is noticeably more responsive due to the variable vane turbo and was a seriously quick car .Not as sonorous as flat 6 but a more exciting car to drive than the 981 and dynamically better. The newer cars suffer from PP filters which has made them sound even worse and possibly made them less responsive.

[@mar7739]

Funny thing - I've driven 2.0 liters 718 twice. A Boxster, and a Cayman yesterday. At first sceptical, they really suprised me. Subjectively the fastest sub-300hp cars I've ever driven. So either there was something wrong with this one, or just use that Sport/Sport+ knob!

[@wingedlion17]

💯

[@peterj5751]

I test drove a base with PDK and also expected to hate it but really enjoyed it. I didn’t find it particularly laggy and thought it was not far off the CLS 500 I am used too so it is in no way slow. So I also wonder if it was something with that car. I didn’t mind the sound either. As I said, I was very pleasantly surprised because I expected to hate it.

[@mar7739]

@@peterj5751 On AutoTopNL channel, they showed short autobahn race between base 718 Boxster and E53AMG, and the Porsche pulled away...

[@peterj5751]

@@mar7739 which doesn’t stun me having driven the base Boxter and owning a CLS 500 with the twin turbo 4.7.

[@stevewushu]

@james, is this a 2.0 n/a or does it have a turbo? I ask because if turbo then surely just a standard stage 1 remap will perk up it’s performance? Perhaps some exhaust mods instead to free up the exhaust flow?

[@grumpyoldman6632]

You would think that if the engine is laggy, that the turbo would be on the larger side for greater power, If it's not making the power, the turbo isn't being pushed into its efficiency range. It would be very interesting to see what a tune would do to wake things up. I think it need more boost, and a less restrictive exhaust.

[@markoslater]

A lot of your facts are wrong, that car does not have a leather interior! Full leather interior has leather on dash and door tops. Also to criticise the car based on driving one without Sport Chrono shows you don't really understand whats on offer. In Sport+ mode which the car you tested does not have when you come off throttle momentarily it actually cuts fuel not air which keeps flowing and keeps the turbo spooled hence when you get back on it Zero Lag!!

[@danfreeney7656]

If you look the car has a leather interior but not extended leather. You mention the air/fuel cut off, cars without SC also have this and it comes into play in both sport and or sports+. The idle speed is increased in both modes therefore reducing the lag by keeping the turbo spooled. You don’t need SC for this to happen as none SC cars still have a sport button.

[@markoslater]

@@danfreeney7656 trust me the difference between Sport and Sport+ is massive, My 718 base with manual box, PASM, PTV, Sport Chrono, and PSE is like a different car in Sport+ You can even see on the boost gauge it maintains 0.2bar boost for like 5 seconds after you lift off, it does not do this in Sport the boost pressure goes to 0 instantly and there is lag when you come back on the throttle

[@danfreeney7656]

@@markoslater it will be as sport+ has a performance setting for the throttle response and pdk. Yet the boost pressure is still the same. Only using sport response does it give an extra 0.2psi of boost but it turns everything to maximum.

[@markoslater]

@@danfreeney7656 I know it does not give extra boost what I mean is it maintains 0.2bar turbo pressure for 5 secs even when no throttle so the turbo is still spooled so this eliminates the lag that he feels is so bad in this review. So my point being Sport+ does make a big difference it eliminates all lag which makes the car much more responsive to your inputs, so to dismiss the base car totally is a mistake as one with Sport Chrono is quite different to whats tested here, options really do make a difference with Porsche. Plus he's driving it like a granny and probably carrying 50kg extra in the car than me😆

[@Hypersonik]

HAHAHAHA! When you come off the throttle, you're not producing exhaust gas and thus you're not spinning the turbo. Infact closing the butterfly is best because if you're not drawing air in, the compressor isn't wasting energy trying to compress it and can keep momentum. This is why you have BOVs. So I'm not sure what marketing nonsense you have nee conned into believing but it's wrong.

[@keithwhittygmail]

What year did you buy that cardigan, jumper, scarf thing your wearing from Dorethy Perkins. I wanted to get one for my gran. 😜✌️😂

[@manaspradhan8041]

Get along with the times old man, he's hip

[@keithwhittygmail]

@@manaspradhan8041 Hip. Isn't that from the 70s. Old Man 🤣👌😜 sick you mean. 👍😜👍❤️

[@manaspradhan8041]

@@keithwhittygmail you can go on depop right now and search cardigans, you will see 158k+ listings, either there is a 60-70 year olds infestation on depop or you are out of touch, one of the two

[@keithwhittygmail]

@@manaspradhan8041 Fashion is for followers and wanna bes. Just because cardigans are back in style has nothing to do with what looks good but lazy designers following each others designs. I don't wear labels or swest shop fashions made by children. It was a joke anyway and you've taken it to a battle of the cardigan. You must own 2 or 3 them . 😜👌😜❤️

[@manaspradhan8041]

@@keithwhittygmail designers are lazy? Clearly not an artist if you think creativity doesn't exist. And my point still stands, you're just out of touch and still trying to make fun of others clothes. Hilarious

[@R-Tap]

I've been looking forward to watching this all day. My fav Cayman is a 981 2.7 PDK. Im open to being convinced, however the 2.0L 😔 LATER I stand by my original decision.

[@72andres]

Outstanding professional made video. May God bless you!

[@AndreAndre-mp8py]

Good stuff Jay. Let me know if you want to have a go in a late (2016) bog standard 981 PDK one to compare the old 6 cyl one in a sort of a back to back basis against this one. Keep the good work

[@julianevans9548]

I know some are obsessed with 'new', but how could anyone spend £55k on this when a 981S would be £20k less. The noise alone... never mind the laggy performance. I can't see how you're not buying the badge - if this had 'VW' or 'Toyota' on it, would anyone buy it for £55k?

[@EvoraGT430]

Or Lotus, even.

[@lewisvincent7479]

Because finance… Also the supra is £53k with a Toyota badge and I’m sure many people would buy that

[@ckneasel]

Really starting to think the Porsche hate is just his schtick... it’s a sub 5 second 0-60, while not mind numbing, it’s still a “quick car”... 🙄

[@davidduncan9050]

I absolutely love that you have reviewed the base model. Most people would have to really stretch their budget just to get the entry level car with only a few options. I watched Doug Demuro for years and the only Cayman he ever did was the GT4 and GT4 RS. Stuff I will never be able to afford. Most of the other reviewers have done the GT4, but I don't want a daily driver that is stiff and uncomfortable. Only the rich can afford to buy a car that they only drive on the weekends, and by definition, being rich means being in a very small percentage. Hell, if I was rich I would just go test drive / buy one.

[@chriskelly9361]

Can't blame a man for buying the car he wants, but holy hell what a third pedal would do for this car.

[@Hypersonik]

Make it slower and less flexible.

[@EvoraGT430]

@@Hypersonik But not a prisoner to the gearbox computer.

[@Hypersonik]

@@EvoraGT430 I'm not. Stick it into manual mode . The only thing the computer then does is not let me make an incorrect downshift that'd blow the engine and will downshift automatically if it thinks I'm going to stall the car. It'll let me headbutt the limiter all day long. See, you comment on what you don't know.

[@pabasamdee163]

@@Hypersonik well it's really fun shifting straight from sixth to third when you want to overtake on the highway rather than tapping three times on a paddle. Different strokes I guess

[@Hypersonik]

@@pabasamdee163 How's that treat your synchros? And it'll take you a good 1.5 seconds to do it too. My other cars are manuals but the PDK is better.

[@richardjones2764]

Watching from a wet and soggy Singapore. Enjoying your videos, cheers, Rich

[@stevegeary1527]

I have a 2018 manual version (no ppf). Sounds way better and is a brilliantly fun and engaging weekend car. Think the real issue is with modern regs reducing sounds. Had a 992 S for a few weeks which was comparatively quiet and nowhere near as much fun (although really quick).

[@ericquinn8578]

Let’s all take a moment to appreciate how aesthetically pleasing a steering wheel with a round center is. The steering wheel is the part of the car we’re faced with more than any other part, and so few manufacturers bother to design good looking ones. Thank you, Porsche designers, and designers at Acura, Audi & Mercedes who, at least sometimes, have bothered to give us attractive steering wheels. It’s the little things that make the difference.

[@djones1304]

Pleased I went with a used 991.1 S. older. But the sound and response is great

[@notroll1279]

I like people who "draw the line" on how much they are willing to spend and who can resist ticking lots of boxes on the order sheet. And I've never been a fan of unnecessarily harsh suspensions. After this review, however, I wonder if the owner hadn't better ordered a mid-range Audi TT instead.

[@Hypersonik]

You are far better off getting a lower spec and making the appropriate mods yourself. Cheaper and better. As you said, you don't want stiff suspension. That's why you buy adjustable suspension - soft for the road, firm it up for the track/nutter weekend blast. Jobbed.

[@peterj5751]

That’s an interesting review. I am currently deciding between the Boxter S and the base model and can’t find an S to test anywhere within 1000km of where I live so I find your review of the response of the engines very useful. Having driven the base model with PDK and sport chrono I was pleasantly surprised by the response and performance, but then I wasn’t expecting much from the smaller engine and I drove it mainly in winding hilly roads. I had been planning on the S but was a little tempted to save the money and go for the base model. I think you’ve helped me make up my mind to stay with plan A. Cheers.

[@Resist_Oppression]

The normal mode, the gearbox is rather chill. When is sport and sport +, it's immediate. It's so quick to change gears and gather speed quickly. I've had the 718 S about a week and it's great!

[@eze8970]

Thanks J, sounds like you need to drive it like an old 4 pot with a lot more revs!

[@marvinsamuels1237]

I’m always curious to see what base models are like. I’m sure most of us would be happy with/could only afford the base model of most higher priced cars.

[@stuartd9741]

I'm very interested to see how a 4 cylinder Porsche fairs in the market place compared to the usual 6 pot. After all Porsche is synonymous with 6 cylinder engines.

[@peterpoppe4855]

@@stuartd9741 not quite the case : earlier Porsche's used to have 4 cylinders : the 550 Spyder, 924, 944, 914...

[@stuartd9741]

@@peterpoppe4855 that is indeed true. Most people today would associate Porsche with the Flat 6 Cylinder engines... My point is could Porsche owners live without the 6 CYL burble compared to a 4 CYL turbo motor?

[@peterpoppe4855]

@@stuartd9741 unfortunately Porsche initially skipped 2 Cyl due to emission regulations. I have a 718 Boxster (my first Porsche) and I do like the sound. I can't compare it with the previous Boxster/Cayman, but I indeed can imagine the sound was "better". On the other hand it's quite strange : no one argues about electric cars : no sound at all and no complaints. Weird, isn't it ? To end : I love my 718 and it performs great.

[@stuartd9741]

@@peterpoppe4855 Good point about silent EV cars. Perhaps expectations are different? James complained the 718 he tested felt slow/sluggish/turbo laggy. Do you find that with yours? I suspect the engine perhaps needed a few more miles to loosen up the engine. I grew up in the MK3 escort XR3is, turbos, XR2s reno 5 turbos, era nothing wrong with a 4cyl turbo. I've recently sold an e46 325 definitely a different power delivery experience: smooth torque compared to peaky revvy 4 Cylinders.

[@fuddyduddy7826]

I own a 2018 base 718 with a VR Tuning pack and it roars. Try sport mode...sounds from the engine sound that you’re running in Normal. Also, I have a Fabspeed exhaust which makes it sound like something other than a vacuum cleaner. Dynoed my car and got 313 RWHP. WHICH is far better than the 718S...and it took all of $850 and three hours to install it...saving $12,000. So put it in Sport Mode.

[@realkingrav2265]

I’m planning to get the 2020 781 Base Cayman in 1 1/2 years. Does it get a lot of attention on the road? I’m a bit worried about that.

[@final_mile_music9713]

With a Porsche, the base model is always a great choice. That’s where they start. The engineering is all in the base model. Then they add the variants.

[@anthonyburee650]

Can you please do a review of the jag with the 4 cylinder engine as a comparison

[@kra2787]

...you drove the car for 99% of your review with sport mode off??? No wonder. Totally different car in Sport mode. I only take sport mode off if I'm in traffic. What you did is like reviewing a Tesla in valet mode.

[@capuchinseven]

I didn’t know if I should laugh or cry when he freaked out and took it out of sport.

[@oliverlowe8297]

I don’t know why you’d go for this over an Alpine A110, unless it’s your only car or you aren’t a car enthusiast.

[@tris7]

I was thinking the same

[@thomasdawe1837]

The guy has a custom numberplate with his name. Enough said.

[@oliverlowe8297]

@[Mob Inc.] Robert the Alpine is on par price wise but comes with more options as standard, making it a better value proposition; especially when considering the maintenance costs involved with Porsche ownership. It is also the best part of 300kg lighter and has a smaller engine, making it intrinsically more economical.

[@oliverlowe8297]

@[Mob Inc.] Robert if you’re willing to buy a car that’s inferior based on looks alone, I’d argue that you’re not a car enthusiast.

[@oliverlowe8297]

@[Mob Inc.] Robert I never said it’s because the Alpine is faster, it’s not as powerful for a start. The Alpine is a very niche product and I still haven’t seen one, suggesting the Porsche was the boring choice. You’ve repeated what I said about saying if it was your only car I could understand your angle.

[@thevaughnshow]

Could it be that the owner forgot to spec the Sports Chrono package with the PDK? I have that in my base and the car kicks ass. Perhaps it’s a Euro spec vs a US spec, but my ‘17 base Cayman is way more responsive than my previous 981 S. So, not sure what’s going on here.

[@jurajpilka8397]

I noticed there is no sport chrono which in sport plus shuts off the turbo wastegate and keeps it spooled in higher psi so that woudl definitely make a difference in engine response.

[@petervanpuyvelde8959]

As an owner of a 2021 Boxter T, I can somehow understand the reviewer’s ‘impressions’ about the engine in this video. That is what it is: the ‘impressions’ of somebody who borrows the car from an acquaintance and goes for a spin on a b-road. But - and sorry for that - this is not what I should call a credible, underpinned review. The reviewer says that “it lacks power”: hardly credible for an engine that (here in the Boxter T) does Hockenheim in less than 1.59”.

[@radeon08]

I own a 981 so I'm slightly biased, but I did try the 718 as lower specced ones were going for about the same price as 981's in 2019. The 981 I bought, has depreciated about £1000 and I've done 20k miles on it and owned it for 2 years. (it had 11k to start). In terms of my monthly payments, I could sell it today and cash in about 5 grand. You can't say that about many cars. The 718 is this: Looks great (better than the 981 slightly) Drives brilliantly Is faster. Sounds terrible for a sports car Overall though, very good car, and if you want to look good, the 718 does that. Most people don't even know it has a 4-pot in it. But the 981 is actually something special. The flat 6 going to 7000 RPM with a sports exhaust is glorious. When you're darting around B roads hovering over 4000 rpm in most of the gears anyway, downshifting and upshifting is incredible, torque isn't a problem at these revs. It's a little weak on taking off but once you're going, it goes. I know this sounds silly, but its slower speeds whilst hearing that sound is actually beneficial. There will always be faster cars, but the theatrics is what puts the smile on your face. For this reason, I think the 981 is actually far superior to the 718 until you reach the 4.0 GTS/GT4. A lot of people feel this way, it's why the 981 prices are going up. I'm on the verge of possibly selling the 981 for an Exige. Which in my opinion is the pinnacle of what drivers want in a sports car. Loud, fast, and handles beautifully, not to mention it's beautiful to look at.

[@RoderickVoordouw]

Thanks for your indept explanation! However, doesn't the 981 drive brilliantly as well? The 718 may be a bit better in that department, (I wouldn't know) but would you be missing much? Especially if you've never driven the 718. And the 981 is more than fast enough I imagine.

[@radeon08]

@@RoderickVoordouw I could barely notice the difference in handling between the two vehicles but I haven't tracked a 718. The 718 is only quicker at a red light. I don't think it's particularly faster from 60mph+ onwards. Both great cars but losing the flat 6 is a big no no for me. If I wanted a 4 pot sports car, I think a Alpine or a110 would be better. I won't bash the 718, I know 718 owners are probably sick of hearing it, but the proof is in the pudding. There's a reason you can pick up 718's for the same price of a 6 year old 981.

[@RoderickVoordouw]

@@radeon08 I agree with you. My 986 Boxster is quick enough IMHO, but that noise above 5000rpm.... Lovely.. And I'm not going to trade it in for any 4 banger. ;-)

[@alexlee-isted5046]

Porsche do hold their values very well. If you pick them up a handful of years old they can be a brilliant buy.

[@maloney7461]

Test drove 981 and the 718. Fell in love with the sound etc of the 981. 718 sounds tame, 981 sounds like a beast.

[@johnreed3576]

Thinking of one of these as my first Porsche, 48k is a whole lot of cash for a 4 pot, the reviews are abit negative but owners seem to really like them! Should I go for it?

[@odinikita4821]

i dunno what this guy is talking about. ther base 2.0L is an under 5 second car, which is fast. either the car was broken or jay was broken.

[@GuardsRed996]

I‘ll get one because in regards of depreciation I‘m 99% sure that the 718 2.0 will be the „next“ 986. Everyone wants a flat six which is 100% understandable so everyone will go for either a 981 or a GTS 4.0. The ones that just want to own a Cayman take the old 2.5 GTS or at least the 2.5 S. And trust me, no one will look especially for a 2.0 Which is where I come into play 😁

[@Hypersonik]

You're absolutely right. I love the 986. If the 718 base continues to drop, I'd get one as a daily no problem.

[@GuardsRed996]

@@Hypersonik yes same plan here. You can already get some 718 2.0 for less than a much older 981 here in germany.

[@certified6342]

I've got one mapped at 365bhp and it's rapid, it's not a slow car standard but needs revs.

[@denaco]

They the same engine as the golf r and tts?

[@OllieC100]

@@denaco No, the 718 uses a flat four in both 2.0 and 2.5 configurations. 👍🏼

[@denaco]

@@OllieC100 thanks buddy

[@pete3198]

While some people have replied somewhat critically, I completely understand your position on this review. I had a somewhat similar feeling when I bought an Alfa Giulietta QV to replace my 147 GTA. Both had similar power, close enough on torque, similar on paper acceleration times. But going from that Busso V6 in the GTA to the 1.7L Turbo four in the GQV just felt like such a massive drop in enjoyment. The GTA really begs you to rev it out and to extract every bit of performance, and even if you didnt gain any performance you would rev it out just to hear the sound! It's intoxicating, and even if you aren't necessarilly going THAT fast (they only do the 1/4 mile in maybe the mid 14 mark) it doesn't matter because the way it feels to drive makes you smile constantly. The engine is also so versatile and responsive - it pulls strong from idle and just kept pulling in a linear way up to that 7,000 RPM redline, and every minute input from the accelerator is felt instantly. You can drive it at 1,800 RPM in 5th and when you put your foot down it still pulls. By comparison the Giulietta QV had that half second of hessitation while you overcome the turbo lag, then started pulling strong at around 2,000 RPM, before just running out of steam completely at around 5,000 RPM. Having that really narrow 3,000 RPM torque band really killed the driving experience for me because on any sports car you WANT to keep revving it out, and yet there was just no reason at all to do it with that car because you get no performance for it. And yet at the same time it sounded...dull. Like a 4 cyllinder turbo. So there wasn't even an incentive to rev it out for the sound. To make matters worse going up hills I was always finding I had to drop a gear because when the engine was off-boost it just felt completely gutless. People may be critical but man...the engine really can have so much influience over the driving experience of a sporty car.

[@bigsumo1967]

I think it telling that a late 981 of either boxster or cayman will cost you more than an early 718. But as someone who regularly redlines my 75hp commuter box, I think I could get used to leaving it in first until you think it's going to blow up before changing.

[@JohnFromAccounting]

That's good for customers who don't want to sell a kidney for a car. Let the 718 prices drop.

[@quickreviewchannel6931]

Hairdressers are open now jay no excuses for boris hair!

[@camberwellcarrot420]

@@DaleSteel Buuurrrnnn

[@simonbussey7530]

Did you select SPORT mode? (Not for PASM but for the engine?) The engine does sound very muted. I wonder if the particulate filter is responsible. My base (2018 pre PPF) pops and burbles much more than it appears in the video.

[@markoslater]

Mine does too but you have to drive it aggressively for it to do that which lets face it is what you should be doing. Un fortunately Jay is driving it like a granny hahahah

[@realkingrav2265]

@@markoslater Does this car get attention on the road? I’m a bit worried about that since I’m planning to get a 2020 Base Cayman in 1 1/2 years

[@markoslater]

@@realkingrav2265 mine seems to in Miami blue but then I don't care about what other people think, I got it because I like driving it!!!

[@dwarfyh32]

Nice looking car for a base model. A stage 1 remap will soon have it sorted and make it much more responsive

[@realkingrav2265]

Gosh that’s what I’m having trouble with. Excellent video and I am thinking about getting a 2020 Base 718 Cayman in 1 1/2 years but it looks bit too small doesn’t it? I don’t know man…

[@cloud1stclass372]

It’s such a great ride. You could have never driven a Porsche in your life and in less than a minute it just feels like you’ve been driving that car for your entire life. There’s nothing like a Porsche, and dollar for dollar, to me anyway, it’s the best Porsche you can buy.

[@VladoT]

When you get the base model I guess you would start to modify this immediately 😀

[@capuchinseven]

Or, very simply, press the sport button. The clown left it out of sport mode and it’s a totally different car in sport left alone sports +. The base 718 is faster on track then the 981 GTS and proves it in track times.

[@realkingrav2265]

@@capuchinseven Gosh that’s what I’m having trouble with. Excellent video and I am thinking about getting a 2020 Base 718 Cayman in 1 1/2 years but it looks bit too small doesn’t it? I don’t know man…

[@raheimthedreamable]

@@realkingrav2265 I’m also doing some car shopping, my lease will be up soon and I’m thinking about the base model 718. Looks beautiful to me and is still an expensive car who cares what everybody thinks lmao

[@miamigt4922]

As an owner of a GT4 that sees regular track days, I can tell you that I totally respect the 718 flat-4 because it’s a much better platform to modify for track use than either the 987 or 981. Massive power gains from tune/exhaust are possible and 718 Cayman S’s that have about $5000 invested in upgrades are very, very, very fast. As these cars start to drop out of warranty, owners will start to tune them and then forget it, the aftermarket will take off with even more mods. The aftermarket exhausts sound very good, not as good as a flat 6, but you can console yourself with the knowledge that you’ll beat them through the corners with a superior, more recent suspension and power that they can only dream of (718 Cayman S with only a tune and exhaust are yielding 425 wheel horsepower, which is insane).

[@capuchinseven]

You're right, take quick watch of this, the base untuned 718 is rapid - kzbin.info/www/bejne/bX7UgJSnfceZb7M&

[@har8397]

Thank you for this. Between the review, no sunroof and how tight you look in it... this car is out the list....

[@soifranc]

I always enjoy. A video that goes against the “oooh ahhh, a Porsche”. Thanks for the honesty. Looking at either a 718 or Alpine

[@iHaveTheDocuments]

These Caymans may be the best looking new Porsche's available today.

[@RzogL]

I agree! And their size is just right too. The only thing I don't like the are sharp edges of the front wings, carried over from the 981. Looking down the bonnet through the windscreen should be like looking down a woman's cleavage. Other than that, it looks great inside and out. Let's hope they don't mess it up in the next generation (Worst case scenario: a 2 seater Taycan. Best case scenario: a 718 with double wishbone front suspension à la 992 GT3).

[@iHaveTheDocuments]

Yup they're just so clean, timeless and unmistakably Porsche. It's not super flashy but still looks like a sports car.

[@drk2079]

"Dear Dan, thanks for letting me review your car. Best, James. P.s. your engine sucks. Happy 50th."

[@BPoweredLove]

I wonder if there's something wrong with that car. I am renting one from Turo and it is quite spritely. However, in looking for a tracking device on the OBDII port, I see there's a performance "chip" so perhaps that thing has transformed the car from what you're driving in the video to this no-lag, strong-pulling car. I'm quite enjoying this car.

[@oldrrocr]

thanks for this review. I was thinking about getting one... but now I guess I'll just keep driving my old RX7 convertible.

[@michaelmich00]

i think u have the best value for money with the base

[@karamellisiertesfallobst8303]

Defentively, yes. Furthermore, there is no modern sports car in the price range up to 100 k€ with such an excellent value retention. Personally, I definitively would go for a new 718, since 3 or 4 year old used cars are just slightly (10-15%) cheaper than a new car, at least here in Germany.

[@IGCameron]

I have owned and enjoyed four series of Boxsters from 3.2ltr to 2.7ltr 6 cylinder engines and now the 2ltr 4 cylinder series. I have driven them all to Europe and enjoyed touring in them all. However, this 718 is the best engine by far. On my first test drive of the 718 series I could feel the large gain in torque and acceleration. I don't have turbo lag. You should try a SAAB Turbo before you talk about real lag! I drove all versions of the 718 at Silverstone Experience and could not tell any difference between them on the track. Why pay £15,000 more than the 718 base model and get no real return on my investment when driving on public roads? Don't be bullied into paying more for your 718 experience. Just go out and enjoy one of Porsche's finest creations. "The King's New Clothes" comes to mind as Danny Kaye explains.... kzbin.info/www/bejne/fWaYgKRppKefqZI

[@chalkywhite7999]

I couldn't agree with IGCameron more. I too have owned a couple of Boxters. An early 2.5 986 and then a 3.2 987. Both highly enjoyable and capable cars to own and drive. I only really appreciated the 987 on a road trip with mates to France and the Route Napoleon etc. I missed out on a 981 but have now bought a Boxster T (which uses the 2 litre). It is BRILLIANT to drive. Surely the Boxster/Cayman 718 is one of the best looking cars out there bar none. And I love the burble and the noise. Really can't agree with JayEmm on the turbo lag?? Like Cameron says about the Saab - try pulling out of a t junction in a Subaru Impreza!! Dangerous, but you work round it. All in all just watch the KZbin videos and do your due diligence but don't be put off . Just get to drive one and decide for yourself.

[@daysofgrace2934]

I test drove a base Boxster with the idea of a PCP and a 987 gen 2 Base with a PSE. Bought the 987 gen2 Boxster, Basalt black - PASM, PDK, Sports Chrono, PSE, Sports seats plus, 19" Sport Design alloys in satin platinum, enhanced audio, Sat-nav. It hits 0-60 in about 5.5s but with the roof down, PSE open it feels like you could knock 1s off that. The only thing I have changed is the DSC V1 PASM controller and Goodyear Super Sport tyres...

[@cmaxcliff]

I owned a new Boxster S in 2000 which had no low end torque. Nice car but boring. Then bought a new Corvette Z06, not boring but really too fast for street use. Bought a base Mini, nice balance/compromise for a street car, just almost enough power. I have a collection of interesting cars as toys, Maranello, 356, 356, 1967 911S. Recently decided to look at used Caymans to use as a daily driver beater on real(not smooth) roads. Drove the last gen base 6, gutless unless revved hard. Drove the S 6, better. Decided to drive a 718 Base PDK out of hope that it would have more torque in the lower rpm ranges where road cars are actually driven. The extra 70lb/ft starting under 2k rpm is a revelation and blends very well with the pdk in any of the 4 modes. I am buying the 2022 Base PDK because it is remarkably better than the 6 cylinder predecessor, especially as an every day car.

[@Corvolet5]

Just buy a 981 and call it a day. Looks much better from behind too.

[@Kr0nicridah]

I own a 981 and completely disagree with you on that. I think the 981 looks better from all angles except the back hahah

[@janneshildebrandt1]

@@Kr0nicridah same for me, from behind the 981 is not the prettiest but the flat 6😍, its godlike!

[@MatthewKidd]

I’ve got a BGTS 2.5 PDK (pre GPF) and I’m a big fan of it! Happy to let you drive it. Though I do have also have a GT4 on order… 😅

[@king720s7]

Enjoy the review. Was just a little confused when you said let me switch into sport mode but was complaining about the quickness

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Why would that confuse?

[@drakegao816]

I have a 2019 Cayman S manual transmission. Without sport mode, I don't feel any turbo lag and flat, very fast response in low gear, with sports mode, it is another different monster.