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View Full Version : Could Porsche's Cayman S Outdo the Legend of 911?


Dreamcast18
09-28-2005, 10:20 AM
SIENA, Italy — Porsche's newest model, the Cayman S, will cost $58,900 when it reaches North America in mid-January. The company gave the media a full preview of it here this week.

The Cayman S fits between Porsche's midengined Boxster convertible and 911 sports car. But the Cayman S's size and characteristics position it closer to the 911 — some even suggest that in terms of road-holding and dynamics, the Cayman S surpasses the grand master (though many sports car fans would not dare to compare a rear-engined construction with a midengined one).

The Cayman S's six-cylinder, horizontally opposed powertrain is based on the 3.2-liter engine of the Boxster, combined with variable camshaft and valve management systems from the 911. That results in 295 braking horsepower, 251 pound-feet of torque and a maximum speed of 171 mph.

With its closed roof, the Cayman S has ample cargo space. The car can be kitted out with ceramic brakes, 19-inch wheels and electronic damping.

Cheaper versions will join the lineup in two years.

What this means to you: Between the 911 and the Cayman, you can't lose. But why not save some scratch and get the Cayman? We'll see how this plays out in consumers' minds.

Lone Ranger
09-28-2005, 04:52 PM
Having had my share of 911s in the past including a Turbo, I see the car sold to the new breed of Porsche buyer. The old school I think will stay with the 911. It would be hard to believe that Porsche would shut that model down. But then look what happened with the 356 series. Obviously the market will determine the outcome.