By: Dave Abrahams
Weissach, Germany - For the first time, Porsche has released a high-performance GT version of its mid-engined Cayman coupé.
In the Weissach lexicon GT models are, above all else, driver's cars - built by and for people with a need for speed. So much so, according to Porsche, that four out of five GT owners use their cars for track days or club motorsport.
The Cayman GT4 is built around a mid-mounted 3.8-litre flat six borrowed from the 911 Carrera S, rated in this application for 283kW at 7400rpm, driving the rear wheels through a six-speed manual 'box with dynamic gearbox mounts - there's no PDK option.
That translates to 0-100km/h in 4.4 seconds, 293km/h flat out and a lap time around the infamous Nurburgring Nordschleife - in the right hands - of 7m40s.
NOT YOUR COMMON OR GARDEN CAYMAN
Three gaping air intakes in the nose, a large fixed rear wing and a 30mm lower than standard ride height (thanks to suspension and braking componentry borrowed from the 911 GT3) tell you immediately this is definitely not your garden-variety Cayman; the GT4 aero package is designed, says Porsche, not only to reduce lift but also generate downforce.
Standard kit includes bi-xenon headlights, a 'sports' (read loud) exhaust, 20" rims, torque vectoring via a mechanical limited-slip differential, Sport Chrono package with dynamic engine mounts, leather/alcantara interior trim with sports seats and a compact GT steering wheel.
Also available to the deep of pocket are carbon-ceramic brakes, carbon-fibre shellback racing seats, a custom Sport Chrono package that includes a new Track Precision app, and a Club Sport package.
The Porsche Cayman GT4 will make its world debut at the Geneva motor show in the first week of March and first deliveries in South Africa are expected from mid-year, priced from R1 136 000.