2014 PORSCHE CAYMAN | WP0AB2A80EK191347
❯2014 PORSCHE CAYMAN | WP0AB2A80EK191347
Switzerland
Lot details
Vehicle details
Vehicle specifications
4
~$85,000
Engine: 3.8L
Torque: 420 Nm
0–100 km/h: ~4.4 s
The Cayman GT4 represents a watershed moment in Porsche’s mid-engine lineage—an uncompromising, track-honed machine built for purists. Powered by a 3.8-liter naturally aspirated flat-six borrowed from the 911 Carrera S, the GT4 delivers 385 horsepower exclusively through a six-speed manual transmission. This isn't just a faster Cayman—it’s a recalibrated driver’s instrument. It surges from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, but more importantly, it offers razor-sharp throttle response, high-revving excitement, and a mechanical connection lost in many modern sports cars.
The chassis is where the GT4 truly shines. With front suspension components lifted directly from the 911 GT3, combined with lowered ride height, adjustable sway bars, and performance-oriented aero, the Cayman GT4 turns with unshakable precision. Massive brakes, optional carbon ceramics, and a mechanical limited-slip differential ensure it remains planted and predictable even at the limit. Every part of the car—steering, gearbox, brakes—was engineered for feedback and balance, making it feel like a precision-built weapon for circuit driving.
Yet for all its intensity, the Cayman GT4 remains civil enough for the road. Its ride, though firm, is controlled. Its engine, though loud, is intoxicating. It’s a celebration of Porsche’s engineering at its most analog and enthusiast-focused. In a world trending toward turbocharging and automation, the GT4 stands proudly with its naturally aspirated howl, manual-only purity, and motorsport DNA. It is not only the most powerful Cayman of its generation—it is also the most soulful.
Body Styles
The 981-generation Cayman was available exclusively as a two-door fastback coupe with a mid-engine layout. It featured a longer wheelbase, wider track, and lower roofline than its predecessor (987), resulting in sharper proportions and better high-speed stability. The bodywork introduced sleeker lines, integrated rear spoiler, and side air intakes sculpted into the doors — functional and aerodynamic.
The Cayman offered a perfect 45:55 front-to-rear weight balance, delivering one of the most neutral handling experiences in its class. Its fixed roof improved structural rigidity over the Boxster, contributing to better chassis response. Visually, it adopted cues from the 991-generation 911, including slim LED running lights, oval rear lamps, and cleaner body surfaces.
Model Name Meaning (Manufacturer)
“Cayman” refers to the caiman, a small and agile relative of the alligator — symbolizing agility and predatory reflexes. The name follows Porsche’s tradition of animal-inspired monikers (e.g., Carrera, Macan). The Cayman is the coupe twin to the Boxster, with enhanced structural stiffness and sharper tuning, positioned as Porsche’s entry-level hardtop sports car.
Model Name Meaning (Languages)
“Cayman” is borrowed from Spanish caimán (a crocodilian reptile), symbolizing sleek strength and exotic appeal. It remains untranslated globally. The "S" suffix denotes "Sport" (performance-enhanced), while "GTS" means Gran Turismo Sport, traditionally used for more powerful and track-focused versions of Porsche models.
Body & Interior Colors and Rims
Standard exterior colors included Black, White, Guards Red, and Racing Yellow. Metallic options (e.g., Rhodium Silver, Agate Grey, Sapphire Blue) added depth, while special colors like Carmine Red or Peridot Green were available via Porsche Exclusive. GTS models added blacked-out trim, darkened tailpipes, and optional satin wheels for a more aggressive aesthetic.
Interior options included leather or Alcantara finishes in Black, Luxor Beige, Yachting Blue, or dual-tone combinations. The GTS introduced Alcantara sport seats, GTS badging, red tachometer face, and optional carbon trim. Porsche’s extensive individualization program allowed contrasting seatbelts, deviated stitching, and painted interior accents.
Wheels ranged from 18-inch on base Cayman to 20-inch Carrera S or Turbo-style alloys on the GTS. Optional center-lock-style designs and black-finished wheels gave a motorsport look. All versions used staggered wheel sizes, emphasizing the car’s wide stance and cornering stability.
Top Expensive Options
- Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM): ~$1,790
- Sport Chrono Package (with launch control for PDK): ~$1,850
- PDK Dual-Clutch Transmission: ~$3,200
- Adaptive Sport Seats Plus (18-way): ~$2,325
- Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV): ~$1,320
- Bi-Xenon headlights with PDLS: ~$1,560
- Navigation Module for PCM: ~$2,320
- Bose Surround Sound System: ~$1,590
- Sport Exhaust System with black tips: ~$2,820
- Exterior color to sample (Porsche Exclusive): ~$4,000+
vs Competitors
The 981 Cayman competed against the Alfa Romeo 4C, Jaguar F-Type Coupe, Audi TTS, and BMW M235i/M2. Compared to the 4C, the Cayman offered far better daily usability and refinement. Against the F-Type, it delivered more precise handling and lighter weight, though with less straight-line drama. The Audi and BMW were quicker in a straight line (in AWD forms), but the Cayman’s mid-engine balance and feedback made it the driver’s choice in the $50–75k sports coupe segment.
The GTS version in particular offered a unique mix of track capability, everyday usability, and analog feel, just before Porsche transitioned to turbocharged four-cylinders in the 718 generation.
Fun Fact
The 981 Cayman was the last naturally aspirated flat-six Cayman, before Porsche replaced the entire range with turbocharged flat-fours in the 718 (2016+). It’s widely considered the sweet spot for purists — combining NA response, hydraulic steering feel (early models), and Porsche precision in a compact, near-perfect chassis.