Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GTS 4.0 (400 Hp) PDK

The Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0, introduced in September 2020, represents a significant return to form for the Cayman line. It marks a departure from the turbocharged four-cylinder engines of previous 718 models, opting instead for a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine. Positioned as the performance-oriented variant within the 718 Cayman range, the GTS 4.0 caters to enthusiasts seeking a more visceral and engaging driving experience. This model is primarily sold in global markets, including Europe and North America, and is considered a direct competitor to other high-performance sports coupes like the Chevrolet Corvette and the BMW M2.

Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GTS 4.0: A Return to Naturally Aspirated Power

The 982 generation Cayman, launched in 2016, initially utilized smaller displacement turbocharged engines. However, demand for a naturally aspirated option led Porsche to reintroduce the 4.0-liter engine, previously found in the 718 Spyder and 718 GT4. The GTS 4.0 bridges the gap between these more focused models and the base Cayman, offering a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and everyday usability. It’s a two-door, two-seat coupe designed for drivers who prioritize handling and driver engagement.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 is its 3,995 cc (243.79 cu. in.) naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, designated DKDA. This engine produces 400 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 430 Nm (317.15 lb.-ft.) of torque at 5,500 rpm. The engine boasts a high compression ratio of 13:1 and utilizes direct fuel injection. Its power-to-weight ratio is an impressive 3.6 kg/Hp, and 278.7 Hp/tonne. The engine is longitudinally mounted in a mid-engine configuration, contributing to the car’s balanced handling characteristics. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch automatic transmission. This combination allows for rapid gear changes and contributes to a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.8 seconds, 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, and a top speed of 178.95 mph (288 km/h). The engine’s naturally aspirated design provides a linear power delivery and a distinctive exhaust note, appealing to purists.

Design & Features

The 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 maintains the classic coupe silhouette of the 982 generation Cayman. Key design elements include a low-slung profile, sculpted bodywork, and prominent air intakes. The GTS model receives several visual enhancements, including a unique front fascia, darkened bi-xenon headlights, and a rear diffuser with blacked-out exhaust tips. The interior is focused on the driver, with supportive sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a modern infotainment system. Standard features include Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV), and a sport exhaust system. The car’s relatively compact dimensions – 4,405 mm (173.43 in.) in length, 1,801 mm (70.91 in.) in width, and 1,276 mm (50.24 in.) in height – contribute to its agility. Practicality is considered with 270 liters (9.53 cu. ft.) of trunk space, making it surprisingly usable for a sports car. The car’s drag coefficient is rated at 0.31.

Technical Specifications

The Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 represents a compelling offering in the sports car segment, blending exhilarating performance with a refined driving experience. Its return to a naturally aspirated engine has been widely praised by enthusiasts, solidifying its position as a true driver’s car.