|
TEST DRIVE
Porsche Cayman S flies high
If you're a Porsche enthusiast, you might be tempted to call the new Cayman S an instant classic.
The Cayman has a rich pedigree.
Its design is spawned from the Boxster S and includes influences from the 911 Carrera, and, to go further back in time, the 550 Coupe.
|
2006 Porsche Cayman S
(click on photo to enlarge)
|
Porsche officials say the Cayman was built with high standards of practicality and functionality. It's safe to say those standards have been met or surpassed.
The 3.4-liter six-cylinder engine churns out an impressive 295 horsepower and 251 pounds-feet of torque.
Those numbers are actually higher than the Boxster S's 277 hp and 236 pounds-feet and come in only a little behind the 911 Carrera's 321 hp and 273 pounds-feet.
To drive the Cayman is a mind-blowing experience; even though you're in complete control, you find yourself wondering what this car will do next.
When you begin, at low speeds, you sense the disciplined but simmering power. When you venture into higher speeds, you're awe-struck by the control and responsiveness that the Cayman displays.
But the Cayman isn't just a performance car, despite its dynamic dexterity.
It's a beautiful piece of machinery that can be an everyday car. A very expensive, very fast everyday car.
How expensive?
About $58,900.
How fast?
From 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
Even with that kind of power, fuel economy is prety good with the 3.4-liter engine - 21 mpg city, 28 highway.
The cargo space in the Cayman S is surprisingly large, too. There's a front luggage compartment that has 5.3 cubic feet of space, and a rear compartment that has a avernous 9.2 cubic feet.
This model comes standard with six air bags and includes a four-year/50,000-mile warranty.
The Cayman's chassis handles the upgrades from the Boxster's power and torque quite nicely.
While the lines are fairly similar, Porsche officials stress that Cayman's frame is stiffer and that performance is enhanced as a result.
They're right. When it's really pushed, the Cayman's agility becomes plainly evident. It's a confidence-inducing feeling to be behind the wheel.
But the Cayman's solidness can't be denied, either. Its rigidity is part of its strength.
The test vehicle had six-speed manual transmission. The gearbox had short, precise shifts.
Automatic transmission is available, but you'd have to wonder why anyone would want it.
Braking ability is amazing. The Cayman S stops smoothly and comfortably, even when coming down from high speeds.
Porsche officials have targeted their demographic for the Cayman: young, urban types who are "social climbers" and "top guns," married and around 45 years old. They say 88 percent of the Cayman lovers will be male.
That may be so; this car could be described as testosterone on wheels.
But that doesn't mean that everyone can't love it.
Search our Atlanta cars database for new and used cars
|
)
Services »
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement