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

The Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GT4 4.0 (420 Hp) PDK represents the pinnacle of the mid-engine sports car series, offering an unadulterated driving experience for enthusiasts worldwide. Launched in September 2020, this specific iteration of the 718 Cayman, designated as the 982 generation, is engineered for the track while retaining road legality and comfort. It slots into Porsche’s lineup as a highly focused, performance-oriented coupe, distinguished by its naturally aspirated engine and the rapid-shifting Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission. The {original_title} is a testament to Porsche’s commitment to delivering visceral performance, blending cutting-edge technology with traditional sports car ethos. It is designed to appeal to drivers who prioritize engagement, precision, and the aural symphony of a high-revving flat-six engine.

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

At the core of the Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GT4 4.0 (420 Hp) PDK lies a magnificent 4.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer-six engine, a rare and cherished commodity in an era increasingly dominated by forced induction. This horizontally opposed six-cylinder powerplant, identified by the engine code DKDA, delivers a formidable 420 horsepower at a screaming 7600 rpm. Its “power per liter” ratio stands impressively at 105.1 horsepower per liter, showcasing the engine’s high-performance tuning. Torque output is equally robust, peaking at 317.15 pound-feet (430 Nm) at 5500 rpm, providing a broad and accessible powerband that extends all the way to an exhilarating maximum engine speed of 8000 rpm.

The engine’s architecture features a bore of 4.02 inches (102.01 mm) and a stroke of 3.21 inches (81.51 mm), contributing to its high-revving nature and responsive character. With a high compression ratio of 13:1 and a direct injection fuel system, combustion efficiency is optimized, ensuring maximum power extraction from every drop of petrol (gasoline). This naturally aspirated setup, coupled with a four-valves-per-cylinder design, offers a linear power delivery and an intoxicating soundtrack that is often muted in turbocharged counterparts. Furthermore, the inclusion of a Start & Stop System and a particulate filter demonstrates Porsche’s dedication to balancing raw performance with contemporary emission standards, meeting the stringent Euro 6d-ISC-FCM requirements.

Power is transmitted to the rear wheels via Porsche’s acclaimed 7-speed PDK automatic transmission. This dual-clutch gearbox is renowned for its lightning-fast shifts, making it an ideal partner for track driving and spirited road use. The PDK enables the 718 Cayman GT4 to achieve breathtaking acceleration figures: 0 to 60 mph in a mere 3.7 seconds, and 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. The sprint from a standstill to 200 km/h is dispatched in just 13.4 seconds, underscoring the car’s formidable straight-line performance. The maximum speed is rated at 187.65 mph (302 km/h), a testament to its aerodynamic efficiency and brute force. With a curb weight of 3196.7 pounds (1450 kg), the GT4 boasts an impressive weight-to-power ratio of 3.5 kg/Hp (289.7 Hp/tonne) and a weight-to-torque ratio of 3.4 kg/Nm (296.6 Nm/tonne), translating into exceptional agility and responsiveness.

Despite its performance focus, the GT4 maintains reasonable fuel economy for its class, with combined consumption rated at 23.1 US mpg (10.2 l/100 km) on the NEDC cycle. Urban driving yields 17.2 US mpg (13.7 l/100 km), while extra-urban conditions see an improved 29 US mpg (8.1 l/100 km). These figures, alongside CO2 emissions of 232 g/km, highlight Porsche’s engineering prowess in delivering a high-performance vehicle that also considers efficiency to a certain extent.

Design and Features: Form Meets Function in the 718 Cayman GT4

The Porsche 718 Cayman (982) GT4 4.0 (420 Hp) PDK is an exquisite example of functional design, where every sculpted line and aerodynamic element serves a purpose. As a dedicated two-door coupe with two seats, its proportions are classically sporty, emphasizing its mid-engine layout. The overall length measures 175.43 inches (4456 mm), with a width of 70.91 inches (1801 mm) and a height of 49.96 inches (1269 mm), giving it a low-slung, aggressive stance. The wheelbase spans 97.8 inches (2484 mm), contributing to its agile handling characteristics, while the front track of 60.55 inches (1538 mm) and rear track of 60.39 inches (1534 mm) provide a wide footprint for stability.

Aerodynamics play a crucial role in the GT4’s performance, reflected in its drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.34. The car features a distinctive fixed rear wing, an aggressive front fascia with larger air intakes, and a functional diffuser, all working in concert to generate significant downforce, enhancing stability at high speeds and through corners. The interior is driver-focused, with lightweight elements and supportive sport seats that firmly hold occupants in place during dynamic maneuvers. While built for performance, it still offers practicalities such as a minimum trunk (boot) space of 9.53 cubic feet (270 liters), allowing for weekend getaways or track day essentials. The fuel tank capacity is 16.91 US gallons (64 liters), providing a decent range between fill-ups.

Underneath its striking exterior, the GT4 is equipped with a sophisticated chassis designed for precision and control. Both the front and rear suspensions feature independent coil springs with transverse stabilizers, providing exceptional body control and responsiveness. The braking system is equally impressive, with large ventilated discs all around: 380×34 mm at the front and 380×30 mm at the rear, ensuring powerful and consistent stopping performance even under extreme track conditions. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, providing crucial safety assistance.

The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion setup, delivering precise feedback and quick turn-in. Grip is provided by a staggered wheel and tire combination: 245/35 ZR20 95Y tires on 8.5J x 20 rims at the front, and wider 295/30 ZR20 101Y tires on 11J x 20 rims at the rear. This setup optimizes traction and handling balance, allowing the GT4 to exploit its full potential. The minimum turning circle of 37.4 feet (11.4 meters) indicates a surprising degree of maneuverability for a high-performance sports car. The 718 Cayman GT4 is not merely a fast car; it is a meticulously engineered machine where every component is optimized for the ultimate driving experience, embodying Porsche’s legendary reputation for engineering excellence.

Technical Specifications