Cayman vs 370Z (inc Reliability)...
Discussion
How much of a performance bargain is the Cayman really?
I have been fighting with my head and my heart for a while now on what to get next and feel like a Cayman would be the logical step forward having almost reached the magical three-oh, having expired most of the hot hatches on my list and chasing the never ending requirement for more power and performance from my daily drive.
I currently own a 2003 Honda Integra DC5 and really enjoy driving it - Its good cheap thrills, super reliable and handles like its on rails, I have had loads of Hondas including S2000 and fancy something similar but with more torque. I would get an FD2 but the Mrs says I need to grow up a bit so….
I have researched a bit into the 981 Cayman (2006 models) and I never compromise on engine specifications, and so naturally want the 3.4S with a manual gearbox. However after doing a bit of research I find the internet littered with horror stories about RMS/ IMS failure and seemingly more increased reports of catastrophic engine failure through excessive oil use, leading to engines smoking heavily and eventually leaving owners with scored bores and what I would class as ‘excessively large’ bills….
I have considered other cars, the 370Z is a close contender and if it weren’t for the £485/year tax I would have to stump up it would be a closer call between the two. However this extra seems small potatoes when you consider Gen 1 Cayman engine rebuild costs at 5k+!
I drive pretty hard and probably do about 8k a year, no track work.
I want a reliable, fast car that gives real depth of feedback, begs to be driven at 10/10ths and puts a smile on my face daily.
Of course I could just get a warranty from Porsche on a Cayman but that’s just another yearly bill to pay, which leads me onto my question(s).
How reliable are the 3.4 Cayman engines?
Is it worth getting a warranty?
Is the 370Z really a contender for the Porsche?
Thanks in advance for constructive comments.
I have been fighting with my head and my heart for a while now on what to get next and feel like a Cayman would be the logical step forward having almost reached the magical three-oh, having expired most of the hot hatches on my list and chasing the never ending requirement for more power and performance from my daily drive.
I currently own a 2003 Honda Integra DC5 and really enjoy driving it - Its good cheap thrills, super reliable and handles like its on rails, I have had loads of Hondas including S2000 and fancy something similar but with more torque. I would get an FD2 but the Mrs says I need to grow up a bit so….
I have researched a bit into the 981 Cayman (2006 models) and I never compromise on engine specifications, and so naturally want the 3.4S with a manual gearbox. However after doing a bit of research I find the internet littered with horror stories about RMS/ IMS failure and seemingly more increased reports of catastrophic engine failure through excessive oil use, leading to engines smoking heavily and eventually leaving owners with scored bores and what I would class as ‘excessively large’ bills….
I have considered other cars, the 370Z is a close contender and if it weren’t for the £485/year tax I would have to stump up it would be a closer call between the two. However this extra seems small potatoes when you consider Gen 1 Cayman engine rebuild costs at 5k+!
I drive pretty hard and probably do about 8k a year, no track work.
I want a reliable, fast car that gives real depth of feedback, begs to be driven at 10/10ths and puts a smile on my face daily.
Of course I could just get a warranty from Porsche on a Cayman but that’s just another yearly bill to pay, which leads me onto my question(s).
How reliable are the 3.4 Cayman engines?
Is it worth getting a warranty?
Is the 370Z really a contender for the Porsche?
Thanks in advance for constructive comments.
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