The Porsche 718 Cayman (982) S 2.5, a mid-engine sports coupe, represents a significant evolution in Porsche’s entry-level performance car lineage. Introduced in 2019 and produced through 2020, this iteration of the 718 Cayman marked a shift from the naturally aspirated flat-six engines of its predecessor to a turbocharged four-cylinder configuration. While initially met with some purist resistance, the 718 S aimed to deliver enhanced efficiency and comparable performance through modern engine technology. Positioned within the premium sports car segment, it competes with models like the Audi TT RS and BMW M2, offering a focused driving experience and the renowned Porsche build quality.
Porsche 718 Cayman (982) S 2.5: A Detailed Overview
The 982 generation Cayman, launched in 2016, saw a complete redesign compared to the previous 981 model. The “S” variant, specifically the 2.5-liter model, represents a step up in performance from the base 718 Cayman. It’s characterized by its distinctive styling, agile handling, and a commitment to driver engagement. The 718 Cayman is not a model traditionally sold in high volumes in the United States, but it maintains a strong following among enthusiasts who appreciate its balanced dynamics and Porsche heritage.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the 718 Cayman S 2.5 lies a 2.5-liter flat-four, turbocharged engine. This engine, designated MDD.NC, produces 350 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 309.78 lb.-ft. of torque between 2100 and 4500 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to a broad torque curve, providing strong acceleration throughout the rev range. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection for optimal combustion efficiency. This powerplant delivers a 0-60 mph time of approximately 4.7 seconds, and a top speed of 177.09 mph (285 km/h). The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is an impressive 140.2 hp/l. The engine is longitudinally mounted in a mid-engine configuration, contributing to the car’s exceptional balance and handling characteristics. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, offering a direct and engaging driving experience.
Design & Features
The 718 Cayman S 2.5 is a two-door, two-seat coupe with a sleek and aerodynamic profile. Its design emphasizes a low center of gravity and optimized airflow. The body is constructed using a mix of aluminum and high-strength steel, contributing to a relatively lightweight curb weight of 2987.26 lbs (1355 kg). The car’s dimensions are 172.4 inches (4379 mm) in length, 70.91 inches (1801 mm) in width, and 50.98 inches (1295 mm) in height. The trunk offers 5.3 cubic feet (150 liters) of storage space.
Inside, the 718 Cayman S 2.5 features a driver-focused cockpit with high-quality materials and a modern infotainment system. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive airbag system. The McPherson suspension, both front and rear, is tuned for precise handling and ride comfort. The steering utilizes an electric power steering system for responsive control. The car rides on 19-inch wheels, fitted with 235/40 ZR19 tires at the front and 265/40 ZR19 tires at the rear.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Porsche |
| Model | 718 |
| Generation | 718 Cayman (982) |
| Type (Engine) | S 2.5 (350 Hp) |
| Start of production | January, 2019 |
| End of production | June, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 12.7 l/100 km (18.5 US mpg, 22.2 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.2 l/100 km (25.6 US mpg, 30.7 UK mpg, 10.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 210 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 285 km/h (177.09 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp, 258.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.2 kg/Nm, 310 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 350 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 140.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm @ 2100-4500 rpm (309.78 lb.-ft. @ 2100-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | MDD.NC |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 (152.38 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 102 mm (4.02 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 76.4 mm (3.01 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1355 kg (2987.26 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1665 kg (3670.7 lbs.) |
| Max load | 310 kg (683.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 150 l (5.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4379 mm (172.4 in.) |
| Width | 1801 mm (70.91 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1994 mm (78.5 in.) |
| Height | 1295 mm (50.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2475 mm (97.44 in.) |
| Front track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1539 mm (60.59 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | McPherson |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Tires size | 235/40 ZR19 92Y; 265/40 ZR19 98Y |
| Wheel rims size | 19 |
