2009 Porsche Boxster and Cayman unveiled

Porsche has unveiled its next generation Boxster and Cayman models at the Los Angeles Auto Show today. Showcasing the same level of evolutionary design we have come to expect from Porsche in recent years, the biggest changes come from improvements to the drivetrain of each model.

Porsche Boxster
The entry level Boxster now boasts a 2.9-litre flat-six engine which develops 188kW while fuel efficiency has dropped to just 9.1-litres per 100kms - a 10 percent improvement over the previous 2.7-litre unit. With the new standard six speed manual transmission, the Boxster accelerates from zero to 100km/h in just 5.9 seconds.

A new 228kW 3.4-litre direct-injected has found its way into the Boxster S model which delivers smoother engine response and improved fuel economy of just 9.4-litres per 100kms. When mated to the optional double-clutch PDK transmission with Launch Control, the Boxster S covers zero to 100km/h in just 5.0 seconds.

The Boxster and Boxster S feature the latest generation Porsche Stability Management (PSM) now offering two new functions: Brake Pre-Loading and Brake Assist.

Porsche Cayman
The Cayman range receives the same engine line-up as the Boxster - albeit with more power, with the entry level model developing 195kW from its 2.9-litre unit. The Cayman S uses the same 3.4-litre unit also with direct-injection technology, delivering 235kW without any fuel penalty over the engine in the Boxster. Performance has improved for both models, with the Cayman S in particular reaching 100km/h in just 4.9 seconds from a standing start.

Boasting similar exterior upgrades as the Boxster, the Cayman is also available with a Lights Package featuring bi-xenon headlights, dynamic cornering lights and LED day-time driving lights.

In line with the Boxster range, the new Cayman also offers the latest generation Porsche Stability Management (PSM) and optional Porsche Communication Management (PCM) 3.0 entertainment system.

© Source: caradvice
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2008 Porsche Cayman Review

When Porsche introduced the Cayman S two years ago, it left some enthusiasts scratching their heads. The bold, midengine sports car was faster than its ragtop counterpart, the Boxster, but lacked the performance of the famed 911. In all likelihood, Porsche could have made the Cayman faster, but it didn't want to cannibalize the market for its race-bred -- and more expensive -- models. The resulting Cayman was precisely tuned to fit in the gap between Porsche's entry level and flagship models.

There are two versions of the Cayman now, the base model and the S. The regular Cayman has a 2.7-liter flat-6 that puts out a respectable 245 horsepower and 201 pound-feet of torque, while the 3.4-liter in the Cayman S delivers 295 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque. Despite being powered by 50 fewer horses than its S sibling, Porsche claims the base sport coupe's 0-60 time lags only by 0.7 second with manual models. Although the Cayman S comes with bigger brakes, upgraded wheels and a six-speed manual transmission, the base Cayman, which starts nearly $10,000 less than the S version, is still a fantastic drive.

The combination of the Cayman's agile, midengine platform with a stiff body makes for a superbly handling sport coupe. It's more responsive than the Boxster, yet it's more manageable than a 911. What's more, the relatively roomy cargo areas -- both front and back -- make this car almost practical enough to fit into the "daily driver" category.

Options on the Cayman can add up quickly, which throws the notion of good price-to-performance ratio out the (electronically controlled) window. Just going by the numbers, other cars such as the BMW Z4 coupe, Chevrolet Corvette and Nissan 350Z can churn out better performance for less cash. Ditto the superb new BMW 135i, which adds a backseat to the mix. But for the driving enthusiast who prioritizes perfectly balanced responsive handling, the 2008 Porsche Cayman is hard to beat.

© Source: edmunds
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