Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GT4 4.0 (420 Hp)

The Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GT4 4.0 (420 Hp), launched in September 2020, represents the pinnacle of the 718 Cayman lineup, embodying Porsche’s unwavering commitment to driver engagement and track-focused performance. As a specialized variant within the 982 generation, this model transcends the standard sports car offering, positioning itself as a high-performance coupe designed for enthusiasts who demand a visceral driving experience both on the road and at the circuit. It is a testament to Porsche’s engineering prowess, blending a potent naturally aspirated engine with a meticulously tuned chassis and a purist’s manual transmission. While the broader 718 series has embraced turbocharged four-cylinder engines, the GT4 stands apart with its glorious flat-six, a nod to traditional Porsche performance philosophy, ensuring its place as a coveted model in the global sports car market, particularly appealing to those in North America who appreciate its unadulterated character.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GT4 4.0 (420 Hp)

At the core of the Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GT4 4.0 (420 Hp) lies its magnificent powertrain: a naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine. This unit, designated DKDA, is a derivative of the engine found in the 992-generation 911 Carrera and is strategically placed mid-longitudinally, optimizing weight distribution and handling dynamics. With an impressive output of 420 horsepower delivered at a soaring 7600 rpm and 309.78 lb.-ft. of torque available between 5000 and 6800 rpm, the engine is a masterpiece of high-revving performance. Its 13:1 compression ratio, direct fuel injection system, and four valves per cylinder contribute to its remarkable efficiency and responsiveness, allowing it to rev freely all the way to an exhilarating 8000 rpm redline. This naturally aspirated setup ensures a linear power delivery and an intoxicating soundtrack, attributes highly prized by driving purists.

The performance figures for the 718 Cayman GT4 are nothing short of spectacular. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a blistering 4.2 seconds, reaching 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds. The sprint to 200 km/h (124 mph) is dispatched in just 13.8 seconds, culminating in a maximum speed of 188.9 mph (304 km/h). These figures underscore its capability as a serious performance machine, designed to excel both in straight-line speed and dynamic cornering. Power is exclusively sent to the rear wheels via a precise 6-speed manual transmission, a deliberate choice by Porsche to maximize driver engagement and connection. This drivetrain architecture, combined with the low curb weight of 3130.56 lbs., results in an exceptional weight-to-power ratio of 3.4 kg/Hp, or approximately 295.8 Hp per ton, highlighting the car’s agile and potent nature.

Despite its performance orientation, Porsche has also integrated modern engine technologies to enhance efficiency and reduce emissions. The GT4 features a Start & Stop System and a particulate filter, ensuring compliance with stringent emission standards like Euro 6d-ISC-FCM. Fuel economy, while not the primary focus, is respectable for a car of this caliber, with a combined NEDC cycle rating of 21.6 US mpg (10.9 l/100 km). This blend of raw power, engaging mechanics, and contemporary efficiency measures makes the GT4 a uniquely compelling package.

Design and Features: Form Follows Function

The design of the Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GT4 4.0 (420 Hp) is a direct manifestation of its performance aspirations. As a two-door, two-seat coupe, its silhouette is inherently sporty and aerodynamic. Every line and curve serves a purpose, contributing to downforce, cooling, or reducing drag. The GT4 differentiates itself from standard Cayman models with a more aggressive aesthetic, featuring a distinctive front fascia with larger air intakes for improved cooling, a fixed rear wing that generates substantial downforce, and a functional rear diffuser. These aerodynamic enhancements are not merely cosmetic; they are crucial for maintaining stability and grip at high speeds, particularly on a racetrack.

The interior of the GT4 is equally focused on the driving experience. While Porsche offers a degree of customization, the standard setup emphasizes minimalism and driver-centric ergonomics. Lightweight materials are used where appropriate to minimize mass, contributing to the car’s impressive power-to-weight ratio. The two-seat configuration reinforces its purist sports car identity, eliminating distractions and maximizing the connection between driver and machine. Key features include a robust braking system with large 380×34 mm ventilated discs at the front and 380×30 mm ventilated discs at the rear, ensuring formidable stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, providing critical safety in demanding driving conditions. The electric power steering system, a rack and pinion type, offers precise feedback, allowing the driver to feel intimately connected to the road.

The GT4’s stance is further enhanced by its specific wheel and tire setup. It rides on 20-inch alloy wheels, with wider 11J x 20 rims at the rear and 8.5J x 20 at the front, shod with high-performance tires: 245/35 ZR20 95Y for the front and 295/30 ZR20 101Y for the rear. This staggered setup optimizes grip and handling balance, complementing the car’s rear-wheel-drive architecture. The independent coil spring suspension with transverse stabilizers at both the front and rear provides a firm, communicative ride, tuned for exceptional agility and body control. With a compact wheelbase of 97.8 inches and a low overall height of 49.96 inches, the GT4 maintains a low center of gravity and a nimble footprint, making it incredibly responsive to driver inputs. The vehicle’s overall dimensions, including a length of 175.43 inches and a width of 70.91 inches (78.5 inches including mirrors), contribute to its athletic and compact appearance, further emphasizing its role as a focused sports car.

Technical Specifications: Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GT4 4.0 (420 Hp)