“The project ‘Porsche Owners File’ was born from readers’ requests to hear the real voices of actual Porsche owners.” The 23rd report is by TD, about the “718 Cayman.”

〘Owner Information〙
・Featured car: 718 Cayman (2018 Base model)
・Pen name: TD
・Residence: Kanto region
・Family: 4 members
・Previous cars: Mitsubishi Pajero, Nissan Pathfinder, Toyota Camry, Golf Variant (7.5)
・A word to readers:
I wasn’t particularly dreaming of owning a Porsche; I just suddenly decided to buy one. I hope sharing my honest experience will be helpful for those considering a Porsche.

1) How I Came to Purchase

Why I Chose Porsche

I used to drive a Golf Variant, and at that time I thought, “German cars are really nice.” I had ridden in Mercedes, Audi, and BMW before, but never a Porsche, so I was curious.

Why I Chose the 718 Cayman Among Porsches

Budget was a big factor, but I thought, “If I’m going to get one, I want a car that really feels like a sports car.” I considered the previous NA6 model but prioritized a newer year and wanted the Miami Blue body color.

What Sealed the Deal

It was the color I wanted (Miami Blue), and since I park outdoors, I was concerned about the soft top’s deterioration, so I chose the Cayman over the Boxster.

2) Options and Specifications

Options and Specs

The main options are 20-inch Carrera S wheels, Sport Chrono, and LED headlights. Others include GT steering wheel, seat heaters, and power side mirrors.

Why I Chose These Options

I bought it used, but at the time I was considering purchase, Miami Blue was no longer available new, so I prioritized the color. I also liked the black wheel color—it looks cool.

3) From Order to Delivery

Process and Timeline

I started looking at the end of the year, decided in March, and took delivery in mid-April. The dealer was far away, so I made the decision via email and phone without seeing the car in person. Initially, I searched for a certified pre-owned, but no Miami Blue Cayman appeared, so I bought from a regular dealer.

Though it wasn’t certified pre-owned, I felt reassured by the dealer’s reviews, the relatively new model year, Porsche’s reputation for reliability, and the Porsche Center’s maintenance records.

4) Impressions of Porsche Performance After Ownership

① Engine / Engine Sound

The engine sound when starting up really lifts your spirits. The sound when shifting up/down in Sport Plus mode is very sports car-like, with a deep bass that makes me careful when driving through residential areas at night. The power is more than enough for everyday driving.

② Evaluation of the PDK

The transmission is PDK, but it drives like a regular car with no hesitation in gear changes.

③ Ride Comfort and Feel

Honestly, the ride comfort isn’t great. The Golf is quieter, has lighter steering, and is more comfortable. But it’s not unbearable; it’s a ride that makes you want to drive faster and becomes addictive.

Now, I even find cars that are too quiet somewhat unsatisfying.

It’s more stable above 100 km/h. I haven’t driven the standard 18-inch wheels for comparison, but I think the 20-inch wheels have a big impact.

④ Handling / Brakes

The steering has a nice weight and turns exactly as much as you steer. After driving the Cayman, the Golf feels too light and unsettling.

The brakes work very well and also squeak quite a bit. But I knew about the brake squeal beforehand, so it doesn’t bother me.

The brake pedal responds exactly to how hard you press it, so after driving the Cayman, the Golf’s brakes feel too light and strange. To be clear, the Golf is still a great car—very capable, rigid, and safe.

⑤ Fuel Economy / Maintenance / Repairs

Fuel economy is about 9–10 km/l in city driving and 12–14 km/l on long highway trips (meter reading), so it’s surprisingly good in normal mode. But in Sport or Sport Plus mode, the gas disappears quickly (laughs).

Regarding inspections, there was almost no time left before the next inspection when I took delivery, so it was due immediately (sigh). I had it done at the Porsche Center, and it cost about 150,000 yen. I also paid an additional 100,000 yen for extended warranty.

The car has no issues and runs well. Tires certified by Porsche can be found online at reasonable prices, so I don’t think maintenance costs run into the millions.

However, parts are more expensive than for domestic cars, so I expect parts replacement could get costly eventually.

⑥ Family and Others’ Reactions

People say Miami Blue looks even better in person than in photos. It also lifts my spirits. When I tell people I bought a Porsche, they say, “Really!? Why?” (laughs)

⑦ Favorite Points

I love the beautiful overall shape and the excitement I feel when driving.

5) Options I Would Definitely Choose (or Have Chosen) When Buying a Porsche

・The Sport Chrono Package definitely makes driving more fun.
・Since the wheels are upgraded to larger optional sizes, I want PASM too (road noise is louder).
・If budget allows, I want to customize the interior as well.

6) Concerns

I feel the idling stop system doesn’t work well. It sometimes stops the engine before the car fully stops when decelerating (the blog editor also experienced this with a 970 Panamera), and once it stalled without restarting. I keep the idling stop off all the time.

Also, as I’ve driven it more, I’ve become interested in the 911. Since I want an open-top, next I’d like to get a 911 Cabriolet. Not sure when though…

7) Overall Impression

It’s contradictory, but “not something you really need, but I’m glad I bought it.” Even for tedious errands, it makes me think, “Let’s drive there!”

So if you’re interested in a Porsche, I recommend just buying one. Even if it turns out “not what you expected,” you can sell it easily. It’s best to buy the model, color, and options you want when you want them.

8) What Porsche Means to Me

It’s a beloved car that makes me want to keep owning Porsches. I wasn’t very particular about cars before, but now I find myself imagining “If I buy next, I want this model with these options…”

[Blog Editor’s Postscript]
The Miami Blue 718 Cayman is so beautiful that I completely understand how just looking at it lifts your spirits… Wherever you go, it’s not just transportation but a thrilling experience. Porsche is truly wonderful. Thank you, TD!