Was The 987 Porsche Cayman R A Failure? Are They Worth What People Are Asking?

Today I'm looking at one of the most forgotten halo models in Porsche's history - the Cayman R. Everybody was expecting this to be the Cayman's chance to shine, after being shunned for so long - but when it arrived what we got was a half hearted remap, some stickers and a bit of spec. Hardly what the later GT4 became.
However, these cars have now become something of a cult icon, and command very strong money - but could they possibly be worth it? Let's find out.
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[@bispal]

No fake pops, bangs or machine gunning. How refreshing, can actually hear the engine. 👍

[@chungushumongous94]

BISPAL fake pops and bangs have a special place reserved in hell

[@British99]

That’s one of the reasons I love my Cayman S! It has an outdated entertainment system; who cares when you have that glorious flat 6 to listen to. I find myself dropping down a gear, window open when approaching an over bridge, just to hear that glorious engine. Yes, my Cayman S is my daily driver, the Cayman S is the only car I need.

[@Unicornpirate]

That's because its not a modern BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Volkswagen turbo engine.

[@MatthewGaither]

Sports cars are like life partners. The best ones are excellent communicators. Seriously.

[@jaydub5515]

I'm getting this tattoo'd. That's an amazing quote

[@tolosac]

I had a Cayman R (also white) after a couple of 987 Cayman S and before the 997 GT3 and I loves it, I used it for daily, weekend roads and trackdays and it was good for all. In the track it is much better the Cayman S, chasis and suspension are much better, also with a LSD differential, a little lighter, and better looking. I also installed a capristo valved exhaust and the sound was amazing. I still miss the R, even after owning a GT3 and a GTS. For me it is better than any 911 (except GT models).

[@CarYenta-1]

I have a manual R with all the optional goodies, but I still dream of a 997 GT3 RS, having never driven one - is the extra cost for the GT3 worth it for someone who would daily to work and only tracks once a year?

[@svgitana2499]

Cayman is a better car than the 911. The 911 has become a saloon, don’t get me wrong, it’s a beautiful fast saloon but for pure driving enjoyment....the Cayman is the way to go if you get either the GTS or GT4 🙏🏻

[@garrymartin3804]

To not drive a car is criminal investors should stick to the stock markets and let enthusiasts have the cars we want

[@papapetad]

Totally agree. At the same time, they're probably the reason these exist at all. Not many enthusiasts prepared to spend a hefty premium on a ltd edition model that's only fractionally better. This is likely the result of a couple of friends/shareholders/porsche top brass who wanted theirs optioned this way and got the accountants to crunch some numbers and work out how to pass the special-run costs on to general consumers.

[@clu4u]

The only reason I have a Porsche is because of the stock market, silly boy.

[@garrymartin3804]

@@clu4u read it properly

[@clu4u]

My garage queen is a 981 Spyder, silly boy.

[@remyharel7171]

But they do the same damage to companies! At the origin, the idea of the stock market is your provide some money to a company with a product you believe in, and when they make money they will share with you the benefits. But today, investors don't care at all about the companies, they don't even know them, they just buy some shares because some algorithm said so and they sell minutes after when they did little profit.

[@Mrdfastcars]

A few bits ? A: Aero kit. b: Bespoke exhaust system: c: Alloy GT3 doors. d: Ltd slip diff. e: Carbon bucket seats. f: Spyder wheels. G: bespoke ARB sizes H:Bespoke passive dampers. I have had 2, they drive better than the sum of it's parts. VERY cheap at £40k, these are 75 euro's across the pond ! BTW do you need a manual 991.2 GT3 to test ?

[@Hypersonik]

How many miles did yuo do in yours? couple of thousand?

[@Mrdfastcars]

@@Hypersonik 30k miles in total over 2 cars.

[@stu4181]

I have dailyed mine for the last 13 months, its an incredible machine, I knew nothing about porsches when i bought it as Ive always aspired to own an M car and bought it on impulse after a test drive. Bought it on how it felt changing directions. Since found out i didn't get the spec quite perfect as someone specced out the bucket seats, can't understand why you'd opt the expensive seats out?, I guess its good for my daily use. My main issue with having it as a daily is you don't like to leave it some places- tight car spaces or if your friend wants you to visit and you only have street parking there. The review is absolutely spot on, they are more than the sum of their pars and 7k miles done in mine and im still standing they are a little firm if you dont like being jolted about abit its not the car for you to daily! The manual is also hard going in traffic I wouldn't want to daily it in stop start traffic that's for sure. People saying they'd get an S and spec it up, i say crack on all the bits will cost a fortune to add and you will see nothing back at resale time!

[@julian987r4]

On one of your lockdown live streams you answered my question of “am I crazy to buy a Cayman R” to which you replied “yes, but for other reasons than the car!” Made me laugh. I bought a manual R last week and as you say, it is sublime.

[@waynesimpson2074]

13.45 onwards: The main reason I subscribed...real world, straight talking honesty.

[@johnmay9598]

So, here's the thing, speaking as a 987.2S owner who looked at an R when I made my decision to buy (at a 30% premium at the time). Yes, the R is only a marginal improvement on a 987.2S, this is true. Only slightly more power (barely noticeable and probably achievable with an aftermarket exhaust and a tune), a bit of weight savings and a fixed wing (at the cost of air conditioning), along with a lowered stance (which comes with its own tradeoffs - ride quality and clearance are things an S owner doesn't need to worry about). But it is the best performing version of the 987 - that is, a better performing version of the one Randy Pobst said in the 2009 "best driver's car" competition was better than any 911 Porsche made at the time, simply due to the fact that the engine is in the right place. And the reason that matters is that the 987 is the last Cayman to come equipped with a hydraulic steering rack. Now, I like the 981, I think it's a great car. And I'm sure the new GT4 is the pinnacle of what Porsche can do with the 718 platform as well. But as time goes on, Porsche cars overall have become more bloated, more luxurious, less purpose-built and less involved in the driving experience, and there's only so much a GT version can do to counteract that trend. And the drive by wire system they use now - precise as it may be - simply cannot compare to the feel you get from their old hydraulic rack. In other words, the 987 is to the Cayman as the 993 or 996 is to the 911 (depending on which you feel was the last "true" 911 experience; I personally say water cooling is one thing, but the 997 was where the size of it clearly ballooned to GT status - but that's another debate entirely). In short, the 987.2R is the best edition of the last version of the best driver's car Porsche makes that really felt, viscerally, the way a driver's car should feel. And getting the best version, even if it's only slight better than the second best version, is still worth a premium, in my opinion... even though I didn't end up paying it myself. P.S. - the limited slip differential was in fact an option Porsche offered on the 987.2S. I should know, mine has one.

[@a64738]

All the R models I looked at have exactly the same power as the non R models but cost more then double (and sometimes 3 times more). As far as I can see you can easily mod the non R models to be pretty much the same for far less money... But for some reason car reviewers keep recommending to buy the R models.

[@skyphab]

Thank you for that great review! I have my CR since 2011 and still own it. It’s the same besides I speced some details different like leather interior, Porsche logo on the headrests (I hope this one also had the short shifter option). It was my daily driver for all of the years. 150’000 km and I drove it everywhere from wonderful mountain roads, gravel roads, racetracks and even went skiing with it. I replaced the exhaust with a Capristo last year. The original is good with a nice Porsche noise, but it’s way too damped. The Capristo is quite brutal, sounds somewhere like a GT4. Also still on the first clutch, no replacements of parts besides brakes and stuff. 250ml oil consumption in 30‘000km, so far no bigger problems, never prolonged the waranty. I‘ll keep it, selling would be stupid, with that mileage it‘s more or less „worthless“. With my twin ladies now I have other priorities (oh boy), but I absolutely enjoyed that 10 years with that car and I can definitively say, that I love it. I am very thankful that I was able to afford a car like that and drive it like it’s ment to be. Btw: It‘s always easy to say not driving it would be stupid (where I absolutely agree), but perhaps not everybody is able or willing to „destroy“ 70% of it‘s value. Because that‘s happening when you drive cars like that. Unfortunately. Take care everyone! 😀🏁

[@stephenwolstenholme4451]

A top review which echos many of my thoughts too. I was the guy who got a 987.2 S instead and slightly modded with an exhaust and lowered and enjoyed 16,000 miles in two years so far (my 3rd vehicle) and intend to keep for a very long time.

[@Hypersonik]

If you want to drive the car, the S is a waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay better proposition.

[@seinsmeld13]

I was pulled over by police here in Ontario Canada while driving my 2016 Porsche GT4. The cop pulled me over because my front licence plate was ajar. After a small discussion he said I love your car and to have a nice day. I wish all my stops by police were so pleasant. CHEERS!!!!!!

[@QUADCEEKE]

I have one with no options except a sports exhaust and I like it Very much. No airco, No radio, No satnav, maximum pleasure. It now has 112 00 km so it gets dRiven. I hope to keep it my whole live. Epic car for the money. Keep the video.s coming.

[@993mike]

I had one of these before my 981 GT4, and they are beautiful to drive on backroads. I do prefer the 981 body style, but if you can find one of these for the right price they are magic, just like the 987 Boxster Spyder.

[@morganvon5664]

Excellent review. Here in the states, the Cayman R is selling for close to original sticker, especially the peridot green ones.

[@natemallory9141]

AWESOME and more importantly FAIR review. THANK YOU for giving the Cayman it’s rightful due...FINALLY. It’s NOT “the runt of the litter..”

[@andrewradford1334]

I think the review is very fair and balanced, and it captures the essence of the R vs S debate that rages in the forums. I made my choice 4 years ago, bought the R and have no regrets at all with that decision as I am a bit of a purist (but not so much to forego climate, nav and sounds!) and wouldn't dream of modifying a Porsche as I really don't think I could make the right choices to better the maker! I love the car, its looks, the stance, its better than the sum of its parts, and this week it rammed that home to me yet again on a 900 mile road trip to North Yorks/Cumbria for a 3 day blast in the hills. Very close to 41k miles on the clock now and slowly climbing at about 2.5 to 3k a year under my ownership!

[@VK6AB-]

The issue that ultimately raises its head is the 981 - the jump in chassis design and rigidity between 987 and 981 was large going from~ 31,000 N degree to ~40,000 N degree. So much so there was little meaningful structural change between 981/982 generations and indeed the 981 chassis is still more rigid than the 992 ~ 39,000 N degree. Rigid chassis designs improve handling because the suspension doesn't have to adapt to as much torsional flex, in other words you can have a more supple ride and yet retain better contact patch connection with the road surface. Something like the 981GTS (380Nm/340PS/three radiators) with sports chrono, PASM and PTV holds the road better, has more direct steering, is more nimble and yet at the same time is more comfortable and less fidgety. The 987 Cayman R is still a great car but feels likes its from a different era, bit like the 997.

[@jehl1963]

True call-out on Porsche owners afraid to drive their cars. Since the cars are galvanized, they can even be enjoyed in the winter. I do. Buying a Porsche and leaving it parked in your garage is akin to having good furniture for your living room, and then covering it with plastic. But this phenomena has a corollary -- what I call the "Holy Icon" attitude. Many Porsche owners (flippers?) seem to believe that their car, engine, parts, whatever -- magically goes up in value just by virtue of them owning it. They may have bought a Porsche (fill in the blank) a month ago for $X, but they now seem to believe that it is worth 20% or 30% more -- even if nothing has been done to it. This is despite the substantial number of Porsches and related parts in the marketplace. It's a Porsche car, not some 1000 year old holy icon!

[@Yeoldelole]

Couldnt agree more. I thrash the daylights out of my cayman s

[@julian987r4]

Yes but of the R there are only a 100 manuals in the Uk and research suggests that just 35 of those have the perfect spec, so the R is a bit of an exception to the rule.

[@Hypersonik]

@@julian987r4 No, it's exactly what you are using it for - telling people on social media you have somesort of 'halo' car when you don't even drive it.

[@Hypersonik]

Exactly. It makes me laugh. The vast majority of Porsche owners buy the car and then don't drive it. I was speaking to a guy the other day who was looking to drop £50k on a low mile 981 GTS. I asked him what he was going to use the car for. SO I said buy a 2.7, get it remapped (£900) to 310bhp and invest the £25k in an ISA.

[@julian987r4]

Hypersonik what do you mean I don’t drive it? I daily it. What a strange response from you. You ok?

[@TDS981]

Rather pleased with myself for saying pretty much the same things about the 987 Spyder. Great cars.

[@russellking546]

My 987.2 Red is a keeper for me (3 years and counting). It has LSD, same exact body minus the silly fixed rear wing and real door pulls, AC and Stereo. It is gorgeous and epic in the twisties. Highly recommend you find and cherish one. J'adore!!!

[@lecco666]

Too many Rs are PDK specced with the heated seats. The spec in the video is just about perfect. I did 26k miles in mine - would love another again

[@peterw8623]

Try the 987 Spyder next. The exact same sublime driving experience for the road + the pleasure of driving an open top. (And enjoying that wonderful exhaust note with PSE on even more.)

[@budflicker1]

Future classic for certain. 964RS of its day. In fact its probably better to drive than a 964RS. Only 1421 ever made as well, so rare as hens teeth.

[@strongerandwiser2023]

I had a cayman S and I love the thing. I loved the look of it. The way it handled but I hated that lack of power it had. It could have been so much more with an extra 50bhp. Thats all it needed. These cars needed to be at least 350bhp.

[@Angry-Lynx]

And short ratio gearing

[@clu4u]

@@Angry-Lynx 911 has the same 2nd gearing, it’s just the way it is. 981 Spyder here, I can live with the gearing but when I have the clutch done, I’ll consider a lightweight flywheel and short 2nd and 3rd.

[@Angry-Lynx]

@@clu4u but 911.have more power and torque so its not that much of issue like in caymans

[@maryginger4877]

Hartec

[@tylerhough9124]

The only bit of kit I wish my 987.2S had was an LSD. If it weren’t a 2012, I’d probably be looking to trade for one with it. The R’s are great but folks got so excited about the special editions (R’s and Black Editions) that the regular 2012 Cayman S is the real collector car.

[@ikigai47]

To answer a few of your questions expressed: 1) Why people would choose regular seats? Because of comfort in daily driving and road trips. Also it's nice to have heated seats in winter. 2) Why someone would choose PDK? First, because of the annoying tall gearing in the manual so it's essentially an automatic anyway when 2nd gear revs out at 85mph. Also the PDK is faster, AND it doesn't have the same tall gearing annoyance when you choose to drive it with paddle shifters. Lastly, if you must go automatic, PDK is the gold standard. Don't get me wrong, I'd much rather have a manual with reasonable gearing but apparently that's too much to ask

[@arthurveldhoen3932]

Best Cayman, hence best Porsche ever made. End of message.

[@jameswillard1]

You must be an owner. It’s a great car, best Porsche ever?? Not in a million years

[@tindalljames]

Great review, absolutely loved my R and despite px for a GT4 still would love another one day. Possibly the most fun road car out there.

[@andreassakkas7234]

I have one and it is magic. It's a complete car, a sum of its parts which is not dominated by one aspect.

[@Nord_Mann]

Andreas Sakkas congrats on your stellar foresight.

[@IkenOuse]

Should have been called Club Sport. But it is the one I want.

[@RussellMiddleton]

Great review. If you love steering feel, a spine tingling engine note, and supremely balanced handling, can't think of much to beat a 987. I'm generally ready to move on after a couple of years, but had my Boxster a lot longer and can't find anything so rewarding (including the 981 - probably a better daily, but less engaging as a weekend car). If it ever dies I'll likely just look for another.

[@stu4181]

I say this all the time, where do you go from a 981 or 987 ? any meaningful step up in performance costs £££££!

[@RussellMiddleton]

@@stu4181 and not sure I need much more performance on the public road... would be holding it back, rather than revving it out.

[@stu4181]

Russell Middleton exactly people troll the cars that have never owned them, the long gearing, if you pin it from stationery in first it rips round to that redline at some speed if it was shorted geared you’d barely have your foot down for a second before having to slow things down with a gearchange !

[@ChoPi-Eww]

You called it, Jay. The R currently demands a 100% premium over the S here in the US

[@stevedobson9041]

Great summary of the Cayman R. Toward the end of your review you mentioned the “politics of special editions” as being something you wouldn’t necessarily want to contend with regarding the R. Can you briefly touch on what you mean by that comment. Thanks in advance!

[@Poorschedriver]

People who own cars like these get it. 275-330hp with a mid engine is really a magical backroad tool. Porsche is really good a balancing all the vehicle systems to work harmoniously and inspire confidence in the drive so you can get the most out of the car.

[@cuddlyDragon123]

When I was originally looking at Caymans the 987 R was top of my list. When it came to pulling the trigger I went for a 3 year old 718 Cayman S with 7000 miles and close to perfect spec @ £40000 (not much more than a 987 R with 30000 miles). I knew the 4 cylinder turbo would not bother me. Stuck on an exhaust and a tune (for less than £4K). And the dyno showed 440 bhp and 586 nm torque (better than a £100k 718 GT4.) I absolutely love my tuned 718 Cayman S.

[@Hypersonik]

Wow, you absolutely stole that car at that price!! I'm not a fan of the four, but like you said you weren't bothered and that's a huge benefit. top stuff :)

[@CarYenta-1]

The price premium of the R over the S was only around $4000 MSRP!

[@seanmurphy4465]

And now an R costs 4x over the S !

[@SameShipDifferentDay]

Another great review. Very much enjoy your content James. If you're looking for a refresher or close comparison with the Cayman S, you're welcome to take my gen 2 987 out anytime. I've also got an Abarth 124 Spider, which is the best MX5 you'll ever drive. Keep up the good work

[@timhayward6833]

Be great to see James in 987.2 CS and would love his comparison against 981 CS which he drove a while back, for GBP7-10K more is the 981 worth the extra money?

[@NR-vw2rd]

So we’ll said Sir. I’ve seen several of your videos, nice mix of discussion, driving views, and in my opinion honesty. The Cayman is the best performing sports car for the money (used especially). The price difference to a 911 is not worth it. My dream car, a 2016 Cayman GT4. Some day, and for now I will continue dreaming. Happy to see others share their experiences.

[@thedudeabides1443]

Just transitioned from a 987.1 Cayman S to a 981 Boxster S (wanted the top-down experience). And while I really enjoyed my 987.1 CS, the 981 may be the best driving machine. I’ve ever experienced, especially with the X73 sports suspension. The ergonomics of the manual transmission is outstanding and the entire platform is a massive upgrade from the 987.1. Both are wonderful cars but for Porsche, the 981 is truly a high water mark for the company.

[@rjdavies1982]

I used to have a base manual 981 before moving to w turbo 996. I like the look of these 987s but always thought the rear hatch design looked slightly odd and elongated. For me the 981 is a better looking car. My 981 had a LSD and sport plus and lots of other goodies so was a real B road blaster. If this is anything like it can imagine good fun. Nowadays in the 996 turbo I look for faster roads for a different kind of enjoyment

[@michaeljarvis6587]

I have a 987.2 Cayman 2.9. I was standing in front of an R at a car meet back when they were allowed thinking I'd rather have my car and £18k in my pocket and that alluring peridot green example.

[@maryginger4877]

18K is a lot of upgrades....

[@dougiegrubb7133]

Good Honest review. I would like more outside driving shots if I am being critical. Keep them coming.

[@The_Original_Geoff_B]

I never could understand why people buy a car so delightful to drive and just leave it sitting in a garage . . .

[@EvoraGT430]

It's the other modern pandemic no-one talks about. Happily a few people are immune, but the majority of Porsche owners are not.

[@WhatThePun]

Great video! Really thoroughly enjoyed it! 👍 Totally agree with you on the steering with the 987! It was one of the things that made me very indecisive between buying a 987 or a 981! In the end, the gorgeous interior of the 981 was what made me buy a 981 instead.

[@murrieteacher]

Always had this car on my list. But I do a lot of hillclimbs in Australia and the PDK gives me that tenths of seconds that get me to the lead in my class.

[@maryginger4877]

that's cheating - LOL

[@murrieteacher]

@@maryginger4877 And the best thing is that it is legal cheating. But there is the self satisfying snigger as you break the timing light. One other competitor is only putting in enough fuel to get around the track once, another is skipping breakfast and coffee and another is looking for gas lighter than air for his tyres. I just cannot help sniggering when we all meet at the pub after the meet. There even was a suggestion they all start drinking LIGHT beer. I think that is going too far.

[@maryginger4877]

@@murrieteacher It makes me laugh, in the end are we all having fun... like that's the entire point as only one can come first ?

[@mikewalker3933]

Great review as always, I’m not even a huge car guy but I love these reviews so much. Funnily enough I’ve been watching the caymans for about a 6months now and can’t believe how cheap they are!!! I’m very tempted to pick up a cheap one but I know I’d never use it as it would be the 3rd car on the drive. Maybe one day!!!

[@steveberridge4648]

Great review - always loved this car and have felt it’s been overlooked since the 981 GT4 came out.

[@tonyhirst9319]

There are only 8 Cayman R’s for sale in Europe at this time (at least the ones I’ve been able to find online). 2 have less than 50,000km with manual gearbox and carbon seats, prices range from €62,000 -€84,000. 987 Boxster Spyders cost €10- €30k more. A low mileage 987.2 Cayman S can be had for around €50,000. Are Cayman R’s and Boxster Spyders worth the premium over an S? Logically no but to have a more “special” car with future (debatable) investment potential is worth the money if you have it.

[@arda_]

Not R but I have my eyes on the S. Hope they won't go up in prices in couple years.

[@Hypersonik]

They won't. As long as the R exists, prices for S models will remain reasonable.

[@thedrivebygg]

Always liked the look of them, would definitely short list it, great video

[@p.h.234]

Good chat in this. Interesting to see some owner opinions in the comments too.

[@patrickbateman7122]

Funny Porsche makes some of the best drivers cars on the planet yet whenever i see a 911 or Cayman on the road they're always driven really slowly by older gentlemen..

[@British99]

I am an older gentleman and I assure you that I don’t drive it slowly!

[@patrickbateman7122]

@@British99 good for you Rich. But that's not always the case with Porsche owners..

[@rarinkaz]

I had a Porsche 914-6 with a Carrera S motor! Just the fact it was air cooled made it more valuable!

[@alimehrozi2828]

I drove a 2001 boxster S... no one believes me but I swear it handles better than 997 GT3...

[@zachlangan]

After 2.5 years, I just upgraded from a highly spec'd S ($83k MSRP) to an R. Still have the S and after 3 months of driving both, even back to back, I've been consistently reminded that it's definitely a worthwhile upgrade. "Greater than the sum of its parts" is the right perspective. The S will soon be listed for sale.

[@jeffcopoloff8716]

I watch many auto Vloggers !! I believe you are the BEST . Cheers mate !

[@adamsangels9874]

Very happy with my 4500 pound 2004 Boxster manual s……I absolutely drive the shit out of it daily…

[@emgee9775]

More car action visuals and noise please! I like the talking but I think it’s too much compared to car action.

[@nielskjr5432]

I didn't like the first generations of Cayman. But the 981? That's a different story. It's beautiful! Especially from behind.

[@stephenoverstreet9898]

James, how long has it been since you’ve driven a regular 987S? I had a Boxster S about 3 years ago for about 18 months. Speed Yellow, 6-speed manual, aftermarket exhaust. Everything you’re saying about the gearing, the steering, the chassis, the usability...everything applied to that car also. I really wish I hadn’t gotten rid of it. Thank you for your review.

[@JoJoJoker]

The Cayman R is highly under appreciated. The 987 R and 997 GTS started the current Porsche trend of almost-GT normal models.

[@andyrobinson1237]

Look at where the prices are at compared to a 987 S....I think the R is holding up quite well.

[@andyhunt457]

Too many owners seem to clearly be not real petrol heads.Cars are meant to used..driven,seen and enjoyed...if you want to collect buy a bloody painting

[@davidphillips7255]

If you are lucky enough to own a car like this, saving it for the next guy makes about as much sense as saving sex for your old age. This is the only life we get. Most of the time owning a car is a sinkhole for money. To spend that money and not get the pleasure out of it is asinine.

[@Hypersonik]

Alas, this is the majority of Porsche owners these days.

[@denniscasey2831]

The most brilliant statement I've heard in years...maybe ever on these cars. These cars are meant to make smiles while still breathing, not money. Drive it like you stole it (and while you can still get in and out of it from age). I've driven plenty of cars, and my 2010 2.9 base is an enthusiast backroads joy...playful and chuckable mid engine. Others may prefer muscle, etc. and that's OK. Find what brings you joy in this life and bring on that joy!

[@tominator23]

Does anybody make a higher final drive ratio for these cars? It would seem to fix the major complaints people have with many Porsches.

[@christophercatto7184]

Nice review James. Hope it was fun to drive.

[@g.w.7893]

01:20 - " Porsche always had things a little bit backwards..." - As he's driving on the wrong side of the road...;)

[@timhayward6833]

Awesome video, thanks for covering this car. I think a really interesting comparison right now is between a 987.2 S and a 981 S. Let's standardise on 30-40K miles, manual and passive suspension. A 2011 987.2 S wll set you back just under GBP25K but a 2013/14 981 will be GBP32-35K, so GBP7-10K more. There are pros and cons on each car but do the pros of the 981 outweigh the price difference? And just for argument's sake, lets take styling out of the equation as that is subjective and I tend to think the 987.2 is a bit more interesting and retro in shape.

[@carlfrederick8433]

I bought my R in Peridot new and have enjoyed driving on many twisty roads and have 52000 miles on it currently. No concern about the next owner and how many miles are on it or what the selling price may be. I want to drive it and put on as many miles as I have time to because as said before it is magic and so much better than the sum of its parts. I drove a 720S and 458 last year, both are fantastic cars and faster, but driving the R immediately afterwards made me appreciate the R even more. I think I understand why I see the asking prices for the R increasing in Panorama slighty over the last year or so. To answer Jay's question as to why anyone would spec a PDK: I had a choice between 6 speed manual (I do love to shift) or PDK and chose PDK for 2 reasons. I consider PDK a 7 speed manual without a clutch pedal that shifts faster than any human can. There is no automatic transmission fluid and no torque convertor. The gears are manual gears in gear oil. There are two clutches that are wet clutches. The next gear is always loaded on the opposite clutch and shaft and when the driver pulls the paddle or moves the shift lever the shift time is about 80 milliseconds for one clutch to disengage while at the same time the second clutch engages. There is no lifting off the accelerator pedal to shift so power is on more continuously than in a 6 speed manual car. I find shifting this way more engaging than moving my left leg. The second reason is that I have to drive 3 hours to get to twisty roads, At 70 miles per hour the PDK is at 2000 rpm in 7th gear, the 6 speed manual is at 3000 rpm in 6th gear. I drove both back to back for 14 miles on twisty roads before I made my ordering decision. If I lived closer to mountains I may have chosen the 6 spd manual. I also have not been afraid to modify. Removed 116 pounds, so when I drive on a scale it now weighs 2900 pounds with PDK, AC, and the Porsche side air bag carbon fiber seats in cloth rather than leather. It also gained 11 HP and 8 ft-lb torque with an exhaust change. I plan on keeping it for a long time. Great review Jay.

[@JayEmmOnCars]

Thanks Carl. Keep enjoying the car!

[@DoWorkExotics]

I love these. They will only continue to appreciate. Very rare in Porsche terms. 563 US cars

[@SandeepSingh-tp8xh]

Fantastic review sir

[@blueshark928]

The biggest problem with the Cayman and the Boxster is that they are superior 'drivers' cars to the flagship 911 and they will never develop them to be better than the 911.

[@glennhavinoviski8128]

Nothing about any Cayman is a failure. A 987 Cayman was my first Porsche, and while I enjoyed my Boxster S and love my current Carrera T (which is a little less of a go-kart but has its very special attributes), the 987 distilled everything that is special about Porsche in as small a package as was possible in the late 2000s.

[@MindDezign]

Hello a time traveler here, I'm two yrs in the future, it's 2022.. Poor, poor people, that squander,their right to drive a Porsche, to save it for the next owner to DRIVE! That's such a very Cuckhold, thing to do. And I would have none of it. Bang it for all it's worth, let the next guy ,worry about ,Value! For heaven sakes man ( Cayman Owners grow a set will you ???) Life is way to short, to miss out DRIVING this. What will future you say?!?! Oh I had one, but I saved the mileage for the next owner!?!? Do you hear yourself !!!!

[@nova-oy4qy]

@JayEmm on Cars would be good if you could get your hands on a 987.1 RS60 Spyder for a review.

[@stephenauty2402]

Buy a high mileage , well serviced gen1 S for £10K, spend £5k on brakes suspension and maybe an exhaust. You're still half the price of an R and you can drive it and enjoy it with out the worry of depreciation. Just blasted from Newcastle to Selkirk up the A68 in my 2007 Cayman S , wonderful, I really don't think you can buy a better car for under £20K, they're brilliant.

[@Angry-Lynx]

Bad advice first gen has lot of issues, some of them very expensive to fix.. buy youngest generation yoy can afford. 981 are solid

[@nicwilson89]

That exhaust really needs to be less restrictive and let the engine sing/breathe properly

[@DavidDatura]

My favorite all time Porsche.

[@ianwaghorne5327]

Another great review. Keep them coming.

[@Redlinefr]

Very nice video for the beautiful R!!

[@everydaybiker]

Well done. Thanks again

[@rodjjj]

jayemm, how does this drive compared to elise and exiges? in terms of power and feel

[@sparky4878]

The Porsche line-up confused me years back. Seems too many models, niches within niches. But then that seems to be the way with many manufacturers today, I’m looking at you BMW and Mercedes.

[@JoJoJoker]

Porsche does it better.

[@julian987r4]

Bland Mediocre Wagons

[@boypotato666]

I am a current pdk cayman R owner and eyeing Alpine A110, would really want to know is it worth to change?

[@MagicAyrtonforever]

Best car in the world in my opinion.. Also why did you stop at a green light? :-) @2:28

[@P-I-D-D-Y]

I was wondering that too.

[@P-I-D-D-Y]

Perhaps to give some space between Jay and the vehicle ahead?

[@stephenauty2402]

So he could concentrate on talking I think, there was nothing behind him, gave him some time and created a big gap to the car in front.

[@sherifelsakkaf1458]

I think you might be underestimating just how much testing and brilliant engineering it takes to get this Cayman from the S version to this R version. Trying to replicate this result on your own with aftermarket add on bits will not likely work.

[@_arthouse]

I was always curious about these, interesting to hear/see what was different about them. Did it have a LSD in the end? I'm with you on getting an S and modding etc, but the seats ... they're £8000 used, and lovely as you say.

[@julian987r4]

Yes they have LSD

[@stephenauty2402]

Is there an aftermarket version that's more reasonably priced? They are truly wonderful things.

[@stephenauty2402]

@@julian987r4 I was asking just about the seats!!! Not the whole car.

[@Hypersonik]

@@stephenauty2402 Yeah, have a look at Cobra Nogaros. They hold you much much better than the Porsche buckets and still look amazing. £750 (plus rails) means you're looking at £2k for a pair

[@stephenauty2402]

@@Hypersonik Yeah they look good, British made too.

[@Nord_Mann]

As usual, cars misunderstood in it’s time, are coming back with a vengeance, and at a premium, when the train has left the station, ref Carrera CS, 964RS, the Speedsters. I foresee a video by you, in 8-10yrs time, when you revisit the Carrera T, and end up with the same conclusion: "sublime, sweet spot, hits the nail on the head, communicative, lager than the sum of it’s parts", which it is, at present. Ppl just don’t get it, before it’s too late, and no one can get them anymore.

[@ian_987]

Oh indeed, and in the Carrera T's case it'll be welcome when people stop going on about "ooh, turbos ruined the sound blah blah blah" and actually realise "this was a high point in petrol-engined sports cars"... we can live in hope

[@JayEmmOnCars]

I still need to be convinced by the Carrera T

[@Nord_Mann]

Ian C exactly! The Carrera T is THE last proper sounding 911 made. Even the 2019 991.2 GT3 and Speedster is disappointing sounding, with it’s GPF’s muting the glorious sound of that GT3 engine. The Carrera T is also THE last narrow bodied 911 to be made, as all 992’s are either wide body (S/4S) or just plain silly J Lo (Turbo S). Hell, even the manual box in the 992 is a straight carry-over from the short shifter unit in the Carrera T.

[@Nord_Mann]

JayEmm on Cars train is leaving the station... You just need to live with the Carrera T for a bit of time. Ppl said it was a parts bin special, but who’s parts bin was it? Put all the bits together: a 20mm drop in ride height with sportier suspension, less sound insulation, best version of the 7-spd manual with a short shifter and reduced final gearing. Add to that the nicest sounding sport exhaust in the 991.2 Carrera range, rear wheel steer, mechanical diff locker, wider tyres and wheels, a nice understated exterior package, lightweight glass and a cool retro looking cloth interior specific to the Carrera T. Jeezes, you better jump on the train while you can. It’s all the 911 one ever needs. It’s even got that modern PCM. Just find one without a glass roof, adaptive cruise control and Lane Depature Warning and BLIS. Less is more👌🏻

[@thedrivebygg]

968 club sport or cayman r ?

[@a64738]

Used Cayman R cost 2 to 3 times more here then the normal model that has exactly the same horse power... I see no reason why you can`t just buy the base model and mod it to same specs as the R model for a fraction of the price.

[@ghowells5433]

Would you choose the Cayman R over the Boxster Spyder of the same generation James

[@WeirdNeville]

Cayman S, Cayman R Springs from Porsche (no others have the spring rate/ 20mm drop), New Bilsten dampers and a geo tweak (bit more camber on the front and you're good. Diff and a slightly stiffer rear ARB if you're taking it seriously. Cayman R for £20k less.

[@plektosgaming]

I'm personally at about the point where I think everything they make is a bit of a mistake, simply because they are all becoming so heavy and large. Long long gone are the days of a light, nimble 2400lb car. The 911 is pushing 3500lbs, and the Cayman is 3000. That's what my old 1960s Mercedes weighed. Sure, it has more power, but it's just not the same. It's heavy and cumbersome. BMW has the problem even worse, as every generation is more bloated and more like a muscle car.

[@oliverradcliffe7974]

I gotta say though, driving a 718 S, it definitely doesn't feel any heavier back to back with a 987. The Caymans are still a delight.

[@jonhug3231]

That’s a great car and good review. However, I need to take issue with your Lotus Evora comparison. Now feel free to compare the two but you must flip them around. Porsche is a much more robust and bullet proof platform than the Lotus. Porsche and Corvettes, I’ve owned both, are the gladiators of the performance car world. Tons of performance for Fairly decent pricing. Tons of value. Lotus on the other hand, are cute “boutique “ cars. Seemingly put together by 2 Fat Bloaks in a barn from The outskirts of Manchester. Porsches are engineering masterpieces and it’s only due to the efficiency of design and engineering of Porsche, that these cars are fairly attainable for the hard working enthusiast. Lotus are far more fragile cars you must bring in during inclement weather. Porsches are like the USMC, first to the fight, rain or shine…The President’s personal military of sorts. I’m convinced that when the world faces Armageddon one day, either from a Meteorite, attack from an Alien Race or WW3 with Mother Russia… The engineers from Porsche and their world class ingenuity will be there to save us all from the end of days…

[@richfixescars]

Cayman R is a lovely car, but as others say I'm not sure it's worth double the price of an S. Also if you do a lot of miles your depreciating it more than an S model.

[@stu4181]

Rich Fixes Cars I’m not sure on that if you look on auto trader there is one with 80k miles on it for only a few k less than one half the mileage. I think miles often hurt cars in greater supply more as there’s more to compare to??

[@Nord_Mann]

Even more appropriate question is; was the RS60 a failure?

[@triode1212]

The RS60 was just a fully optioned Boxster S and limited edition plate.

[@R-Tap]

I'm a huge Cayman fan, would love a 981 S PDK. The R is the only 987 I would actually buy these days. Love seat porn.

[@000GunterGabriel000]

997/987 generation is simply the pinnacle.