Overview
The original Cayman is the fixed-roof relative of the 987 Boxster, with a mid-mounted flat-six and luggage space at both ends. The coupé body is central to its appeal: Porsche described its enclosed structure as particularly stiff, supporting the precise handling that made the Cayman attractive to keen drivers. The first Cayman S reached the market before the less powerful Cayman, and the range later gained revised engines and the Cayman R. When shopping, establish whether the car is an early 987 or later 987.2 before comparing power figures, gearboxes or engine concerns. Porsche’s early Cayman brochure and Cayman R report.
Versions and engines
Read this section: Versions and engines
- Early Cayman: the 2.7-litre flat-six produces 245 PS. Porsche’s brochure describes it alongside the S, though the S reached buyers first. Porsche Cayman brochure.
- Early Cayman S: the 3.4-litre flat-six produces 295 PS. Early buyers could choose a manual or Tiptronic automatic; identify the transmission before comparing adverts. Porsche Cayman brochure.
- Later Cayman and S: Porsche’s later specifications list a 2.9-litre Cayman at 265 hp and a 3.4-litre S at 320 hp, with manual and PDK gearboxes shown in the technical data. Porsche later Cayman specifications.
- Cayman R: launched for sale in 2011, it has a 3.4-litre engine rated at 330 hp, with a six-speed manual or optional PDK. Its specification deserves separate verification. Porsche annual report.
What drives the price
Read this section: What drives the price
The Cayman R is a distinct model, while the early S and later S differ in engine output and automatic gearbox. A seller’s “Cayman S” label does not establish which combination is fitted. Compare like with like: base against base, S against S, and R against R. Factory options can matter, but documented engine and drivetrain condition matter first. A car presented as track-focused deserves careful checks of brakes, tyres, suspension and evidence of maintenance. Porsche specifications.
PcarWise highlights cylinder scoring, timing deviations and oil leaks as inspection subjects for early Cayman engines. A clean bill from a specialist, supported by a diagnostic report and invoices, is more useful than an advert’s statement that a car has “no common problems”. On later PDK cars, establish gearbox service history and test operation when both cold and warm. PcarWise Cayman buyer’s guide.
Common problems and what to inspect
Read this section: Common problems and what to inspect
- Cylinder condition: sustained smoke, unusual oil use or an uneven exhaust note warrants investigation. On a suspect early S, discuss bore inspection with a marque specialist rather than relying on a short idle test. PcarWise Cayman guide.
- Timing-chain wear: have a diagnostic scan check cam-to-crank timing deviation on an early M97-engined car. Listen for persistent rattles and examine any past repair invoices. PcarWise Cayman guide.
- Oil and coolant leaks: inspect the rear main seal area, cooling connections and front radiators. A dry parking space does not rule out a leak that appears only when the engine is hot. PcarWise guides.
- Gear selection: test every manual gear or observe consistent PDK and Tiptronic operation, as appropriate. Warning lights or reluctant shifts need a fault-code scan before purchase. PcarWise Cayman guide.
Running costs
Read this section: Running costs
The later 987 maintenance checklist specifies oil and filter every 10,000 miles or 15,000 km, plugs every 40,000 miles or four years, and periodic checks of the drive belt. It also calls for visual checks of radiators, hoses, brakes and underside leaks. Apply the schedule matching the car’s model year and market. Porsche maintenance checklist. A prospective owner should also allow for condition-based repairs to cooling components, suspension and the fitted gearbox; these cannot be priced responsibly from mileage alone.
FAQ
Read this section: FAQ
Is the Cayman R simply an S with decals? No. Porsche lists a distinct 330 hp engine specification and describes both manual and PDK versions. Check the car’s factory identity and equipment. Porsche annual report.
Does every Cayman 987 have the same engine? No. Early base and S cars differ, and Porsche’s later specifications show revised displacements and outputs. Compare the exact engine and gearbox. Porsche brochures.
What matters most in a pre-purchase inspection? Request engine-condition checks, fault-memory reading and examination for oil or coolant leaks. The early S merits particular attention to cylinder condition. PcarWise Cayman guide.
Is PDK the same as Tiptronic? No. Porsche’s later Cayman data lists PDK, while the early range offered Tiptronic. An advert saying only “automatic” leaves out a useful distinction. Porsche later specifications.
Sources:
- Porsche, early Cayman brochure — checked 4 November 2026.
- Porsche, later Cayman specifications — checked 4 November 2026.
- Porsche, annual report covering Cayman R — checked 4 November 2026.
- PcarWise, Cayman 987 buyer’s guide — checked 4 November 2026.
- Porsche, later 987 maintenance checklist — checked 4 November 2026.