718 seating options
Discussion
Hi all, first post so ignore any forum faux pas..
I have recently ordered my first porsche, a 718 cayman - would love to have an s but insurance is an issue (21 year old refusing black box) - and trying to keep my budget to a reasonable level.
my spec is as follows:
gt silver
20" carrera s alloys in satin black
bi xenons with PDLS
tinted rear lights
PASM
PSE in black
Carbon interior package
smoking pack
gt steering wheel
aluminium pedals and footrest
I am keen on alcantara seating - come from a golf R where it is also standard - however i have never seen the standards seats on a 718.
is this for a reason? are they no good ?
the next option would be sports seats plus, but i do not like the perforated leather centres and i have heard the bolsters are still the immitation leather?
i am fully against spending a further £2k on leather.
Are the standard seats adequate in support and quality or will i regret not speccing the more expensive seating options?
any advise welcome!
thanks
fred
I have recently ordered my first porsche, a 718 cayman - would love to have an s but insurance is an issue (21 year old refusing black box) - and trying to keep my budget to a reasonable level.
my spec is as follows:
gt silver
20" carrera s alloys in satin black
bi xenons with PDLS
tinted rear lights
PASM
PSE in black
Carbon interior package
smoking pack
gt steering wheel
aluminium pedals and footrest
I am keen on alcantara seating - come from a golf R where it is also standard - however i have never seen the standards seats on a 718.
is this for a reason? are they no good ?
the next option would be sports seats plus, but i do not like the perforated leather centres and i have heard the bolsters are still the immitation leather?
i am fully against spending a further £2k on leather.
Are the standard seats adequate in support and quality or will i regret not speccing the more expensive seating options?
any advise welcome!
thanks
fred
I think you need to try find a few examples and check them out at a dealer.
If you’re anywhere near Cheshire you’re more than welcome to look at my sports seats plus and see what you think. I don’t mind the perforations in the leather though I don’t understand the logic. They’re very comfortable and I would definitely pick them again over the standard seats.
Though you’ll get someone else who will disagree and prefer standard so try both.
If you’re anywhere near Cheshire you’re more than welcome to look at my sports seats plus and see what you think. I don’t mind the perforations in the leather though I don’t understand the logic. They’re very comfortable and I would definitely pick them again over the standard seats.
Though you’ll get someone else who will disagree and prefer standard so try both.
Great stuff 
I've driven a 2.0 718 with standard seats (an OPC demonstrator). The standard seats are absolutely fine. It's also plenty quick enough, no need for the S, IMHO, the 2.0 is a great car.
A few other thoughts (since you didn't ask, but this is PH...)
I'd humbly submit that the best value new Porsche is the entry level Cayman with no options... Helluva lot of car for the money.
I always look for upgraded lights and PSE is fun, especially in the turbo era, perhaps close to essential now.
I personally think they handle better on fixed rate dampers with smaller wheels. If you must have the 20s then yes, get PASM. They come as standard on 18s for a reason... - and it's not just so they can charge you a couple of grand to upgrade them
Like everything Porsche you can spend a fortune on options, yes they (usually) make the car better, but also make your wallet considerably lighter...
FWIW, I don't think these black boxes you mention are so bad if you drive sensibly. Keep to the limit in built-up areas. NSLs and motorways are OK. I had one on a previous car - used it to track my journeys for my business expenses rather than for insurance - and it's quite easy to get a good score.
I've no idea about your driving history or how you are lucky enough to afford a new Porsche at 21 - kudos whatever - so forgive me, but I have to say, do be careful, it's a step-up from a Golf (even an R) and make sure you take your time getting used to the character of a RWD mid-engined car. Maybe even spend some of the money you might save on upgrades for the car on upgrading your driving skills too (here ends patronising lecture).
Have fun
I've driven a 2.0 718 with standard seats (an OPC demonstrator). The standard seats are absolutely fine. It's also plenty quick enough, no need for the S, IMHO, the 2.0 is a great car.
A few other thoughts (since you didn't ask, but this is PH...)
I'd humbly submit that the best value new Porsche is the entry level Cayman with no options...
Helluva lot of car for the money.I always look for upgraded lights and PSE is fun, especially in the turbo era, perhaps close to essential now.
I personally think they handle better on fixed rate dampers with smaller wheels. If you must have the 20s then yes, get PASM. They come as standard on 18s for a reason... - and it's not just so they can charge you a couple of grand to upgrade them
Like everything Porsche you can spend a fortune on options, yes they (usually) make the car better, but also make your wallet considerably lighter...
FWIW, I don't think these black boxes you mention are so bad if you drive sensibly. Keep to the limit in built-up areas. NSLs and motorways are OK. I had one on a previous car - used it to track my journeys for my business expenses rather than for insurance - and it's quite easy to get a good score.
I've no idea about your driving history or how you are lucky enough to afford a new Porsche at 21 - kudos whatever
- so forgive me, but I have to say, do be careful, it's a step-up from a Golf (even an R) and make sure you take your time getting used to the character of a RWD mid-engined car. Maybe even spend some of the money you might save on upgrades for the car on upgrading your driving skills too (here ends patronising lecture).Have fun
Thanks for the inputs, I'm not too sure why I'm worrying about seats so much, I have my PEC day this coming Tuesday so hopefully can get some answers then. I just find it unusual that all demonstrators I have seen at local OPC (reading) have upgraded seats.
@Oso thanks, I'm fortunate enough to have a nutty car family and a great job. Was actually my mums idea to go for a 718. Totally agree with you on getting used to the car, I've done a few advanced driving courses but nothing compares to the real world I guess.!
@Oso thanks, I'm fortunate enough to have a nutty car family and a great job. Was actually my mums idea to go for a 718. Totally agree with you on getting used to the car, I've done a few advanced driving courses but nothing compares to the real world I guess.!
Great stuff, champ, pleased to hear all of that
The demos are high spec because they want you to tick the boxes - there is a reason Porsche has the biggest profit margins in the car business...
As you say, you will be able to try out all the options at the PEC, which will be great, and they'll also give you some good tips on driving the thing.
If you want to go to town on the seats, I'd consider getting the buckets. They transform the driving experience, as you very much sit in them rather than on them, and you get loads of feedback though them on what is going on with the car. They are a bit of a PITA to get in and out of but very much worth it once you're in there.
I have buckets in my current car and they are a real treat, although as an old man with a bad back I usually get the adaptives (which are made for people like me lol). The only thing really to watch out for with the standard seats is the (relative) lack of adjustability and (especially if you are very tall) they don't go quite as low.
The demos are high spec because they want you to tick the boxes - there is a reason Porsche has the biggest profit margins in the car business...
As you say, you will be able to try out all the options at the PEC, which will be great, and they'll also give you some good tips on driving the thing.
If you want to go to town on the seats, I'd consider getting the buckets. They transform the driving experience, as you very much sit in them rather than on them, and you get loads of feedback though them on what is going on with the car. They are a bit of a PITA to get in and out of but very much worth it once you're in there.
I have buckets in my current car and they are a real treat, although as an old man with a bad back I usually get the adaptives (which are made for people like me lol). The only thing really to watch out for with the standard seats is the (relative) lack of adjustability and (especially if you are very tall) they don't go quite as low.
My used 981 happened to have 14 way seats. I guess the 718 has the same option, and 18 way also?
I tried the standard seats and could live with them, but at 6' 1" I've found useful additions with the 14 ways...
1/ thigh extension
2/ seat front height adjustment, to support thighs
3/ up/down & in/out lumbar support
4/ electric steering column, both for adjustment and to move up and away when you exit the car
5/ seat & column memory, useful if more than one driver
On balance I think I would spec these seats again as the standard (981) seats aren't that comfortable. Sport seats plus even less so as they pushed my shoulders further forward.
I tried the standard seats and could live with them, but at 6' 1" I've found useful additions with the 14 ways...
1/ thigh extension
2/ seat front height adjustment, to support thighs
3/ up/down & in/out lumbar support
4/ electric steering column, both for adjustment and to move up and away when you exit the car
5/ seat & column memory, useful if more than one driver
On balance I think I would spec these seats again as the standard (981) seats aren't that comfortable. Sport seats plus even less so as they pushed my shoulders further forward.
[quote=Oso]If you want to go to town on the seats, I'd consider getting the buckets. They transform the driving experience, as you very much sit in them rather than on them, and you get loads of feedback though them on what is going on with the car. They are a bit of a PITA to get in and out of but very much worth it once you're in there.
i had thought of these, i think they look amazing and would solve most of my worries - the carbon backing makes me weak at the knees. however i'm put off as its only a "base" cayman and not a gt car less a gts, i may be ridiculed!
i had thought of these, i think they look amazing and would solve most of my worries - the carbon backing makes me weak at the knees. however i'm put off as its only a "base" cayman and not a gt car less a gts, i may be ridiculed!
Twinfan said:
Folding buckets sit you higher in the cabin too - something to be aware of.
True. I have often wondered why. I'd guess it's because they aren't height adjustable (unlike the newer 918-style "full buckets") so they have to go for a one size fits all approach to setting the height and it ends up a bit higher than, perhaps, ideal for some folks.
Fgibbs96 said:
i had thought of these, i think they look amazing and would solve most of my worries - the carbon backing makes me weak at the knees. however i'm put off as its only a "base" cayman and not a gt car less a gts, i may be ridiculed!
I wouldn't worry about what anyone else says mate and you'll likely catch a bit of stick for having a Cayman whatever. Jealous types will always try to find a way to make you feel bad.I've actually noticed with the 911 (less so with the Cayman - but it's heading that way IMHO) - you'll often see base model cars in "drivers spec" with the bucket seats, usually manual, often with a limited slip diff and, if they've really gone to town, ceramic brakes. There is an argument for using the saving under the S for funding those - expensive - options.
And I'd be the first to say spec the car for yourself, rather than the next owner, but cars with buckets are always highly sought after by enthusiasts on the used market.
what are the buckets like to live with other than the difficult access, are they comfy over long journeys? I will be using the car fairly regularly, around 400miles a week commuting, mainly on B roads. So I guess the security in the twisty's is more important than out and out comfort.
Agree on purist spec, I have opted for manual as it'll connect me with the car a bit more, I guess the buckets connect even more so.
Agree on purist spec, I have opted for manual as it'll connect me with the car a bit more, I guess the buckets connect even more so.
Fgibbs96 said:
what are the buckets like to live with other than the difficult access, are they comfy over long journeys? I will be using the car fairly regularly, around 400miles a week commuting, mainly on B roads. So I guess the security in the twisty's is more important than out and out comfort.
Agree on purist spec, I have opted for manual as it'll connect me with the car a bit more, I guess the buckets connect even more so.
I find them super comfy on long journeys and great on B-roads. They make (at least me anyway) sit in the correct position to keep my postural muscles working and that means my back is actually less tired when I get out the car.Agree on purist spec, I have opted for manual as it'll connect me with the car a bit more, I guess the buckets connect even more so.
With regular seats, I find there is always the temptation to slouch a bit when pottering around and, even when pressing on, having to brace myself tires out my back faster.
The only gripe I have is it hurts my back getting in and out. And I have two young sons and you can't (officially) put a car seat in the buckets even if you find one that fits. Not sure that's an issue for you!
Oso said:
True.
I have often wondered why. I'd guess it's because they aren't height adjustable (unlike the newer 918-style "full buckets") so they have to go for a one size fits all approach to setting the height and it ends up a bit higher than, perhaps, ideal for some folks.
Yep, crash regs dictate the ideal height for the average person and this ends up making a seat too high for taller folk. I'm 6ft, so not super lofty, but the fixed height buckets are too high for me personally.I have often wondered why. I'd guess it's because they aren't height adjustable (unlike the newer 918-style "full buckets") so they have to go for a one size fits all approach to setting the height and it ends up a bit higher than, perhaps, ideal for some folks.
Choosing the right seat - for you, not us PH'ers - is probably one of the most personal choices, like colours. What one of us might think the best, others might not. When you have your Porsche Experience make sure you try them all and pick the seat that suits you best. For myself my regret with our BGTS is that I didn't specify the adaptive sports seats plus, more for SWMBO than myself as the greater range of adjustments would have made the car much more comfortable for her, particularly the adjustable seat squab angle and length.
Another tip - use your time there to learn from the instructors they really are great guys and will help you enormously get the best out of your car.
Another tip - use your time there to learn from the instructors they really are great guys and will help you enormously get the best out of your car.
Edited by dreamcar on Monday 18th September 08:51
I have just spoken to the PEC and they are going to show me all the seat options so hopefully I can make a decision!
Are there any things I should ask for particularly to get the most out of my experience? As it's my first rear wheel drive car I guess the low friction stuff will be beneficial?
Are there any things I should ask for particularly to get the most out of my experience? As it's my first rear wheel drive car I guess the low friction stuff will be beneficial?
Fgibbs96 said:
I have just spoken to the PEC and they are going to show me all the seat options so hopefully I can make a decision!
Are there any things I should ask for particularly to get the most out of my experience? As it's my first rear wheel drive car I guess the low friction stuff will be beneficial?
Most of the layout at PEC simulates real road driving, you'll get advice on positioning, use of all the controls to get the best out of your car. It is NOT about driving as fast as you can! Low friction surfaces will demonstrate the onset of oversteer, the difference in slip allowed by PSM in normal, sport and sport plus modes. Kick plate and ice hill again show how the car behaves on low for non grip surfaces and the instructors will teach you how to recover from loss of grip. The main thing that struck me is how the stability management works in the background to keep you safe., the instructors will demonstrate this as you'll do handling exercises with PSM on and off. All the top drivers advise that unless you are Lewis Hamilton never ever switch PSM off on public roads, no matter what some so-called experts advise!Are there any things I should ask for particularly to get the most out of my experience? As it's my first rear wheel drive car I guess the low friction stuff will be beneficial?
Bear in mind it's not a fixed itinerary, the instructor will tailor your experience for what you'd like to do, if you want to develop your skid controls for example then you can spend more time on the ice hill and kick plate.
Edited by dreamcar on Monday 18th September 10:30
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