Design Porsche Cayman R

Design Porsche Cayman R

You notice the new Cayman R’s aesthetic distinctions immediately. Porsche plays on the historic racing theme once again through the use of specific lettering and stripes on the R’s flanks, as well as a fixed rear wing that references the 1967 911R, of which only 19 were built.

The competition often struggles to integrate history into its sporty offerings, but all Porsche needs to do is add another letter and a few stripes to send its loyalists into hysterics.

Like any Cayman, the R imparts an instant sensation of man-machine harmony as soon as you get behind the wheel. Looking around, we note the interior is purposeful and clean, if a bit dated.

The precision with which any throttle, brake, and steering input is delivered dynamically is virtually unmatched. It’s a sharpness that sets the Porsche Cayman R apart from its lesser siblings.

That’s not least thanks to a lower center of gravity and a modified chassis with a reduced roll-angle gradient. The aerodynamics are improved as well: Rear-axle lift is reduced 40 percent, front-axle lift has been lowered by 15 percent. The steering is perfectly weighted, neither light nor artificially heavy.

Interior Porsche Cayman R

The naturally aspirated flat-six is supremely responsive and attentive to the slightest input, a behavior unmatched by any turbocharged engine. At the limits of adhesion, the Cayman R is remarkably communicative and a pleasure to handle. It allows the driver to probe those limits fully, as the stability-control system can be turned off completely.

Specifications

VEHICLE TYPE: mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 3-door hatchback

ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 24-valve flat-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection

Displacement: 210 cu in, 3436 cc

Power: 330 bhp @ 7400 rpm

Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm

TRANSMISSIONS: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic, 6-speed manual

DIMENSIONS:

Wheelbase: 95.1 in

Length: 171.1 in

Width: 70.9 in Height: 50.6 in

Curb weight: 3000 lb

PERFORMANCE (C/D EST):

Zero to 60 mph: 4.2–4.3 sec

Zero to 100 mph: 10.4–10.5 sec

Standing ¼-mile: 12.8–12.9 sec

Top speed: 174–175 mph