Porsche 718 Cayman (982) S 2.5 (350 Hp) PDK

The Porsche 718 Cayman (982) S 2.5, introduced in June 2020, represents the second generation of the 718 Cayman, a mid-engine sports car positioned below the 911 in Porsche’s lineup. This model, specifically the ‘S’ variant with the 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine and Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch transmission, is designed to deliver a focused driving experience, blending performance with everyday usability. The 718 Cayman competes with other compact sports cars like the Audi TT RS, BMW M2, and Chevrolet Corvette, offering a distinctive Porsche aesthetic and engineering pedigree.

Porsche 718 Cayman (982) S 2.5: An Overview

The 982 generation Cayman marked a significant shift for the model line, moving away from naturally aspirated six-cylinder engines to a range of turbocharged four-cylinder engines. This change, while initially met with some criticism from purists, allowed Porsche to improve fuel efficiency and broaden the powerband. The ‘S’ model, with its larger 2.5-liter engine, delivers a substantial 350 horsepower, making it a compelling option for drivers seeking a thrilling sports car experience. The Cayman’s mid-engine layout contributes to its balanced handling and responsive driving dynamics, characteristics that have become synonymous with the Porsche brand.

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the 718 Cayman S 2.5 lies a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine, designated MDD.NC. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to produce 350 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 309.78 lb.-ft. of torque between 2100 and 4500 rpm. The power-to-liter ratio is an impressive 140.2 hp/l. The engine’s maximum speed is rated at 7500 rpm. This powerplant is coupled with Porsche’s seven-speed PDK dual-clutch transmission, which provides incredibly quick and smooth gear changes. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes between 4.0 and 4.2 seconds, while 0-100 km/h is achieved in 4.2-4.4 seconds. The car can reach a top speed of 177.09 mph (285 km/h). The weight-to-power ratio of 4 kg/hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 3.3 kg/Nm further enhance the car’s performance capabilities. The engine also incorporates a Start & Stop system and a particulate filter to meet stringent emissions standards (Euro 6d-ISC-FCM).

Design & Features

The 718 Cayman S 2.5 is a two-door, two-seat coupe characterized by its sleek and aerodynamic design. The mid-engine layout necessitates a distinctive silhouette, with a low hood line and pronounced rear fenders. The body is constructed primarily of aluminum and high-strength steel to minimize weight while maximizing structural rigidity. The car’s drag coefficient is 0.31, contributing to its efficiency at higher speeds. Inside, the Cayman offers a driver-focused cockpit with supportive seats and a modern infotainment system. While prioritizing performance, the 718 Cayman S 2.5 also provides a usable amount of storage space, with a minimum trunk capacity of 9.71 cubic feet (275 liters). Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. The car’s electric power steering provides precise and responsive control. The front suspension utilizes an independent McPherson strut design, while the rear also employs a McPherson strut setup. Ventilated disc brakes are used on all four wheels, with 330×34 mm rotors at the front and 299×20 mm rotors at the rear.

Technical Specifications

The Porsche 718 Cayman S 2.5 (982) continues to be a benchmark in the sports car segment, offering a compelling combination of performance, handling, and everyday usability. Its mid-engine layout, powerful turbocharged engine, and advanced technology make it a desirable choice for driving enthusiasts.