Help and advice for a novice please
Discussion
Hi Guys,
I'm faced with a nice conundrum of choosing between either buying a 2012 Cayman R OR a new Cayman S 718!
I've driven both cars (as well as a few offers!) and I really like both for different reasons; the 'R' for it's raw appeal and the 718 S for it's modern capabilities.
The actual Cayman R I'm looking at is this one > http://www.romansinternational.com/car/1286/porsch...
I drove it today albeit the test drive was crap due to traffic conditions but overall it was a terrific car with only 7.5k miles on the clock, and it felt like a new car! However I did feel a little snug when driving (I have wide shoulders) and my elbows were knocking up against the door.
The 718 'S' is also fantastic, with enormous grip levels and bucket loads of torque and character. After driving one I liked it so much so that I actually placed an order (June delivery!).
However after driving the 'R' today I'm now starting to think that maybe my money would be better placed on the 'R'. The car will only get occasional usage but the ownership will be a treasured one regardless, as I'm planning to keep the car a long time!
This is my first Porsche and I've worked long and hard for it so I'd like to try and make the best decision. I know the two cars are very different but hopefully you understand my point?!
What should I do in your opinion, cancel my order and go with the 'R' or wait and stick with the 718 'S' ??
I know this is all ultimately down to personal opinion etc but I'd be interested to see what you guys would do please.
Also, one last thing, are there any issues to be aware of regarding the Cayman 'R' i.e. IMS / Bore scoring - or should I not worry given the amount of miles it's only done??
Many thanks all...
Cheers,
Paul
I'm faced with a nice conundrum of choosing between either buying a 2012 Cayman R OR a new Cayman S 718!
I've driven both cars (as well as a few offers!) and I really like both for different reasons; the 'R' for it's raw appeal and the 718 S for it's modern capabilities.
The actual Cayman R I'm looking at is this one > http://www.romansinternational.com/car/1286/porsch...
I drove it today albeit the test drive was crap due to traffic conditions but overall it was a terrific car with only 7.5k miles on the clock, and it felt like a new car! However I did feel a little snug when driving (I have wide shoulders) and my elbows were knocking up against the door.
The 718 'S' is also fantastic, with enormous grip levels and bucket loads of torque and character. After driving one I liked it so much so that I actually placed an order (June delivery!).
However after driving the 'R' today I'm now starting to think that maybe my money would be better placed on the 'R'. The car will only get occasional usage but the ownership will be a treasured one regardless, as I'm planning to keep the car a long time!
This is my first Porsche and I've worked long and hard for it so I'd like to try and make the best decision. I know the two cars are very different but hopefully you understand my point?!
What should I do in your opinion, cancel my order and go with the 'R' or wait and stick with the 718 'S' ??
I know this is all ultimately down to personal opinion etc but I'd be interested to see what you guys would do please.
Also, one last thing, are there any issues to be aware of regarding the Cayman 'R' i.e. IMS / Bore scoring - or should I not worry given the amount of miles it's only done??
Many thanks all...
Cheers,
Paul
Hi Paul,
Good choice to have, have you tried the 981 range also?
Personally I did look at all 3 and went 981 GTS instead, The R is a great fun car, but I wanted something newer so gave away to a bit of rawness but didn't loose the fun factor.
I would say drive a 981 S and GTS, then decide between the 3.
Good choice to have, have you tried the 981 range also?
Personally I did look at all 3 and went 981 GTS instead, The R is a great fun car, but I wanted something newer so gave away to a bit of rawness but didn't loose the fun factor.
I would say drive a 981 S and GTS, then decide between the 3.
Hi Jay,
Yep, I was lucky enough to drive a nicely spec'd up Cayman 981, REALLY liked it - perhaps the best of both, hmmm, not sure really.
I think at the time I decided to over look it because I totally blown away by the amount of torque I experienced in the new 718 'S'.
I the GTS maybe worth a shot, however I don't think I can stretch my budget for one of those sadly. Maybe I should revisit that idea?
Cheers,
Paul
Yep, I was lucky enough to drive a nicely spec'd up Cayman 981, REALLY liked it - perhaps the best of both, hmmm, not sure really.
I think at the time I decided to over look it because I totally blown away by the amount of torque I experienced in the new 718 'S'.
I the GTS maybe worth a shot, however I don't think I can stretch my budget for one of those sadly. Maybe I should revisit that idea?
Cheers,
Paul
As ever you have to go with your gut.
However my opinion is if it's only a weekender and you want to cherish it, then the R is going to give you a better return. Plus you'll, have to fund the depreciation on the 718!!!
I've driven the 718 and have an Older S. Even if I could afford a new car I still would not go for the 718 if your use is as you have described. Other than that the 718 is a nice car, very fast, well balanced., a very modern take on a Porsche.
Ah! Decisions! decisions! good luck!
Whatever way you go, you WILL NOT be dissapointed with a Porsche.
However my opinion is if it's only a weekender and you want to cherish it, then the R is going to give you a better return. Plus you'll, have to fund the depreciation on the 718!!!
I've driven the 718 and have an Older S. Even if I could afford a new car I still would not go for the 718 if your use is as you have described. Other than that the 718 is a nice car, very fast, well balanced., a very modern take on a Porsche.
Ah! Decisions! decisions! good luck!
Whatever way you go, you WILL NOT be dissapointed with a Porsche.
paulbi said:
Thanks Caymanwhite,
I hear what you are saying, but having a new Porsche is like a dream come true for me BUT the sensation of the 'R' today was extremely nice. I wasn't expecting to like it so much.
Yes, decisions decisions!
Cheers,
Paul
You need to decide what you want to use the car for. As a weekend toy, limited use or when you have another car, clearly an R has it's merits. Otherwise you are between a 718 and 981. Frankly, they have such different merits only you can decide. You will have seen the heated debates on the forum - torquey (but laggy) turbos vs revvy but (perhaps) a bit gutless NA. Do you have a strong view about the noises the NA and turbos make? Many have.I hear what you are saying, but having a new Porsche is like a dream come true for me BUT the sensation of the 'R' today was extremely nice. I wasn't expecting to like it so much.
Yes, decisions decisions!
Cheers,
Paul
Given that you have driven the cars only you can decide - there aren't (as far as I know) any HIDDEN downsides of any of them.
You need to decide what you want the car for and how you intend to use it.
A quick look at the Roman's car shows it is in decent condition but the market for the R is pushing towards manual gearbox, the carbon bucket seats and lightweight Spyder wheels. So two of three ain't bad as someone once said. Some prefer the pdk, other don't. However, manuals are getting rarer on performance cars and PDK is improving with each new generation.
My personal preference seeing what's around at the moment would be the Peridot green car at JZM. It has the previously mentioned items plus leather dash which gives the air of quality in an expensive car, PCCB brakes which are awesome and as long as they are in good condition and you don't intend to do lots of track work will be fine for years to come and more importantly improve the steering feel and turn in. Peridot might not be everyone's favourite but it was the launch colour for the R and some people like that, especially collectors.
As for the 718, you will lose a load in depreciation and it is not likely to be 'loved' like a flat 6 Porsche. A 981GTS as already mentioned would be a better place for your cash. As for the torque of the 718, doesn't that err towards diesel delivery rather than a top end screamer of a high performance engine?
Just my ramblings but maybe you will find them of use / interest. Most importantly, enjoy the search and make sure you know what you want before committing as any mistakes can be costly, even for the best mid engined Porsches.
A quick look at the Roman's car shows it is in decent condition but the market for the R is pushing towards manual gearbox, the carbon bucket seats and lightweight Spyder wheels. So two of three ain't bad as someone once said. Some prefer the pdk, other don't. However, manuals are getting rarer on performance cars and PDK is improving with each new generation.
My personal preference seeing what's around at the moment would be the Peridot green car at JZM. It has the previously mentioned items plus leather dash which gives the air of quality in an expensive car, PCCB brakes which are awesome and as long as they are in good condition and you don't intend to do lots of track work will be fine for years to come and more importantly improve the steering feel and turn in. Peridot might not be everyone's favourite but it was the launch colour for the R and some people like that, especially collectors.
As for the 718, you will lose a load in depreciation and it is not likely to be 'loved' like a flat 6 Porsche. A 981GTS as already mentioned would be a better place for your cash. As for the torque of the 718, doesn't that err towards diesel delivery rather than a top end screamer of a high performance engine?
Just my ramblings but maybe you will find them of use / interest. Most importantly, enjoy the search and make sure you know what you want before committing as any mistakes can be costly, even for the best mid engined Porsches.
Edited by BubblesNW on Tuesday 20th December 06:40
Edited by BubblesNW on Tuesday 20th December 10:36
Maxym said:
981, preferably a GTS. However, for the latter your choice will be limited, eg only three for sale at OPCs. 
Mind you, the two at JZM look great. The green one if you're track focused, the blue one looks gorgeous.
Do you have a link to those cars please?Mind you, the two at JZM look great. The green one if you're track focused, the blue one looks gorgeous.
Edited by Maxym on Tuesday 20th December 09:46
Maxym said:
http://www.jzmporsche.com/porsche-for-sale/cayman/...
http://www.jzmporsche.com/porsche-for-sale/cayman/...
Thank you - both nice cars but i think my missus might be put off driving a car with race bucket seats. Lovely cars though!http://www.jzmporsche.com/porsche-for-sale/cayman/...
paulbi said:
Maxym said:
Thank you - both nice cars but i think my missus might be put off driving a car with race bucket seats. Lovely cars though!
Try the seats before discounting them, they're fantastic and totally suited to a sports car; it all adds to the sense of occasion.
BubblesNW said:
You never mentioned that your better half would be sharing the driving...have you considered a Boxster instead?
Try the seats before discounting them, they're fantastic and totally suited to a sports car; it all adds to the sense of occasion.
You're right I didn't, but I at least have to give her a chance to enjoy it as well.Try the seats before discounting them, they're fantastic and totally suited to a sports car; it all adds to the sense of occasion.
paulbi said:
I'm getting the general feeling that people are saying don't go for the Cayman 'R' but try and get a 981 'S'/GTS instead. Am I correct on this?
Maybe I should pass up on the Cayman 'R' and stick with my new 718 'S' purchase instead perhaps. Keeping in mind my original two choices.
If you haven't tried 981 S/GTS I think it would be worth your while to at least give one a try.Maybe I should pass up on the Cayman 'R' and stick with my new 718 'S' purchase instead perhaps. Keeping in mind my original two choices.
If you weren't comfortable in the R then forget it. It's the best perhaps for "investment" but unless you're going to wrap it up for the future you won't enjoy it so much. I had the same issue with the 987 feeling cramped, and that's what made me decide against it.
Do try the 981. I chose a 2.7 over an S to get more reaction from the engine and to hear more "screaming"!
Stepping out of an extended 718S test drive, I was relieved to be back in my base 981. Strange? Try one.
Do try the 981. I chose a 2.7 over an S to get more reaction from the engine and to hear more "screaming"!
Stepping out of an extended 718S test drive, I was relieved to be back in my base 981. Strange? Try one.
BubblesNW said:
You need to decide what you want the car for and how you intend to use it.
A quick look at the Roman's car shows it is in decent condition but the market for the R is pushing towards manual gearbox, the carbon bucket seats and lightweight Spyder wheels. So two of three ain't bad as someone once said. Some prefer the pdk, other don't. However, manuals are getting rarer on performance cars and PDK is improving with each new generation.
My thoughts too! It's top money for an R that doesn't have the most desirable spec. I guess it's top money because of the low miles. However, wheels, colour and seats could be a problem come re-sale time.A quick look at the Roman's car shows it is in decent condition but the market for the R is pushing towards manual gearbox, the carbon bucket seats and lightweight Spyder wheels. So two of three ain't bad as someone once said. Some prefer the pdk, other don't. However, manuals are getting rarer on performance cars and PDK is improving with each new generation.
If the bucket seats don't suit you (or the Mrs) you should look for one with sport seats, the correct wheels, sport chrono (especially if you want PDK), aircon and possibly PSE....and you should be paying less than the Romans one.
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