After discussing on YouTube and my blog how there are few test drive reports on generations like the 987, 997, 986, and 996, I had the opportunity to cover a late-model 987 Cayman this time, so I’d like to share my report.

Late Model 987 Cayman Base Model

This time, the test drive is of a late-model 987 Cayman.

With the late model, the engine grew from 2.7L to 2.9L, boosting power to 265ps. Notably, while the S model’s engine switched to direct injection in the late 987, this base model retains port injection, making it the last Porsche with a port-injected engine.

This particular car is a “pure” model with almost no options except for 18-inch optional wheels. So it’s perfect for confirming the Cayman’s true character.

About the PDK

Like other Porsches of this era, the startup isn’t flashy.

From this late model onward, the automatic transmission replaced the Tiptronic with the PDK. There have been many rumors about the PDK being jerky at low speeds or having subpar downshifts, but at least for this car, it was perfectly fine.

The start-off is very smooth—at first, I thought it was still a Tiptronic because it uses the clutch so well to get the car moving. I’ve experienced nearly all generations of PDK, and the newer they get, the more direct the feel at launch becomes. For example, comparing the 991.1 and 991.2, the 991.2 has a shorter slip time at launch, and the 992 adds smoothness on top of that.

The 987’s PDK feels very refined and moist, yet it never feels like a regular automatic slipping.

You hardly feel any shift shock; if anything, it felt like an evolved version of the Tiptronic.

According to the owner, there’s no particularly negative impression of the PDK. Occasionally, there’s a slight jerkiness when shifting between first and second gear in town, but it’s not bothersome.

Regarding shifting speed, it’s faster than I expected. It’s about the same shift speed as the early 971 Panamera, so you hardly feel any stress. Modern supercars’ DCTs are often worse in comparison.

Downshifts don’t use blipping like Porsches from 981 onward; instead, the revs seem matched with the clutch. This feels a bit dated but doesn’t cause any discomfort—it downshifts very smoothly.

The owner sometimes lightly blips the throttle manually for downshifts, which is one way to enjoy this era’s PDK.

Cayman Handling

This car has a standard suspension, not PASM, but the ride quality is very good. Some 718s without PASM can feel a bit bouncy depending on the wheel setup, but the 987’s suspension doesn’t have that issue.

However, compared to 981 and later, the suspension noise is louder, reminiscent of the air-cooled 911 era. You can hear clunks from the rear when going over bumps. But like air-cooled Porsches, the impact is barely felt despite the noise.

While the NVH treatment shows its age, it adds a charming analog feel. As someone who drives a 964 air-cooled Porsche, I found this Cayman retains a nostalgic, classic Porsche character.

Entering corners, the Cayman leans moderately but grips the road firmly. It’s not as light and nimble as a 718, especially the Cayman T. Rather, it feels pleasantly substantial and inspires confidence through turns.

Cayman (987) and 718 Cayman T

Also, the strong analog feel means the car’s behavior changes moment by moment depending on how you apply load and when you turn the steering. If you steer early and control the throttle properly to take a corner in a straight line, it feels fantastic. Porsche has long been said to be a car you “steer with the throttle,” and this generation still strongly reflects that control style.

Plus, the moderate 265ps power is just right for enjoying Japan’s winding roads. The power is enough to push confidently, and the pure, unadorned engine and exhaust sounds are very satisfying.

That’s why it feels so engaging to drive. I think that’s what makes it so fun and never boring.

Between Modern and Classic

Riding the 987 Cayman this time, I feel it truly preserves the best qualities of classic Porsches.

For those who think speed is everything and enjoy that, modern 718s are great. But I want mature drivers who appreciate the “depth” of this driving experience to get behind the wheel. It’s a perfectly balanced Cayman, and I think touring in it would make you want to keep driving forever.

This is truly a top-notch partner car.

Now, 987s are reasonably priced on the used market, so I highly recommend looking for a well-maintained, fully stock example like this.
In terms of cost performance, it’s one of the best Porsches for long-term enjoyment.