As an owner not mechanically inclined, my local Porsche dealer senior tech of 30+ years experience told me my 2014 Cayman 981 Basic Model 6 cylinder car is definitely a top priority keeper and he would love to have one himself. He also said it's the most durable because it is a lasting quality 6 cylinder to keep long term because its engine is NOT a turbo. I purchased mine new and it has only 50K miles driven. I have never tracked it, but everyone has their individual wants and priorities. All Porsche sport cars are the best of the best.
Why does tracking a car carry any weight? Taking a car to the track doesn’t mean you’re thrashing it, it only means you’re likely driving it as Porsche designed it. Most track days can include professional coaches thus become advanced drivers instruction and often covered by insurance and increasing your drivers rating.
The contrast in mood of the presenter from static review to driving says it all. This man is truly happy when behind the wheel - as is probably the case with every Boxster/Cayman owner
I’m the very lucky owner of a 981GTS. I never considered a 718. The GTS is a near supercar with totally usable power and dynamics. I’ve owned five Porsches, all great, but I’m keeping this one forever.
Great review James. I have a 718 GT4 w/manual and a 981S w/PDK and love them both. With the GT4 I feel like it has all of the advancements of the 718 series but with a great flat-6. The 981 is great in its own right and the sound really is glorious, great daily too. I’m usually at 10 track days a year and both cars will see a lot of Sebring, PBIR and Homestead this year.
Seeing how little they changed (aside from the powertrain) from 981 to 718 shows that Porsche definitely got this one right a decade or more back. The Boxster/Cayman series is a sports car every enthusiast should own someday, and as a 1-year owner of a 981 Cayman S, I could not be happier.
Low-mileage, 2014 Cayman S (981) owner here. For a car as wonderful as this, I do wish I had the extended leather package, but most importantly of all, I have one thing you are missing: A third pedal! 😜 I know, I know... personal preference, but I do love the combination of that 3.4L flat-six and manual transmission; It's truly sublime.
The 6 cylinder 981 Boxsters/Caymans are utterly fantastic cars - arguably the very best sports cars ever made. Excellent review and I agree with virtually everything you say.. especially the extended leather, PDK/Chrono, sports steering wheel, classic carrera wheels, However, I would never spec the the false "popping sound" that comes with the optional sports exhaust (I hate it, sounds ridiculous to me) so I wouldn't look for that. I know some people like the coupe look of the Cayman, but personally I much prefer the look of the Boxster with the top down... and then of course you have the wind in your hair making it a proper all round experience. For me, the engine is the beating heart soul of the car, and the naturally aspirated 6 cylinder just sounds soooooooo much better than the 4 cylinder. It really doesn't matter that the 4 cylinder is a little bit faster - the 6 cylinder is plenty fast enough!! These 981s can only go up in value.. future classics.
yep.. short answer.. get a 981 cayman or boxster.. you will be much happier when you step on the gas.. the sound on the 4 cylinder is awful.. a Subaru sounds better.
Agreed, the 981 Cayman GTS is very, very good particularly with PTV - you can wring it out and with the PSE and it sounds glorious. The 4 cyl whilst technically good takes away from the experience as does the 3L turbo in the 991.2/992 911. Moreover, the 981 still looks great, certainly better than the 992 911 and almost identical to the 718. I have no doubt the 981 with the 3.4L B6 will be a classic. Particularly as they are right sized e.g. enough power and torque for a nice B or C road.
Nutts On Cars so torn between the two ! Not normally the biggest fan of white but just think on these they look unreal and with your spec, haven’t driven either just purely going on looks and price wise, always wanted a Porsche but 911 out of reach and always preferred cayman to a boxster
Value is incredible. I have wanted a Ferrari F430 for many years, but this comes so close I cannot see paying 3-times the price and the service hassles. I call my 981 Cayman S a “junior Ferrari”. Mid-engine, gorgeous looks inside and out, great sound, superb driving dynamics, etc etc etc…
Great review James. Loved it. To answer your question ... the extra weight in the 718 Boxster comes from the soft top mechanism and extra motors needed to drive it.
Back for a second look. I have the 981 S and the only option I truly wish I had after a year of ownership is the active suspension (PASM) for spirited drives on the backroads I live amidst. I drove an S with the sport suspension and found it excellent but a touch too stiff for regular highway driving, so having the option to switch between the two would be the perfect scenario IMO. Deal breaker? Not on your life! This car is superb in any trim and owning one is a true blessing for any car enthusiast.
That front and rear boot space is a lot better than I thought, all other reviews I've seen just gloss over this and make it seem like its practically useless.
Great and useful review. I have a 718 Boxster GTS with the 4 cylinder engine and I can’t get my head around the awful sound. I’m in the process of trading for a high spec 981S and you have offered some really helpful insights. Too bad you didn’t do in and out car runs with the 718 to compare engine and exhaust sounds.
Hi Nutts on Cars. Great video. Thanks! I am seriously looking at a 2014 Cayman S 981 with 53,000 miles with Sports feature-not the sports chrono package. One owner. Very well cared for Any thoughts?
Very good review. As a 981 2.7 manual owner, with the long gearing the one thing I yearn for is a more usable response at lower revs, I think I would like to test drive a 718 to see how that feels.
Having owned the 2.7 I know what you mean about the long gearing, must say thats something that does make the 718 feel a bit more fiery as it runs through the gears much faster.
For those of us who prefer a manual the length of gearing is really key to the driving experience on british roads, I wonder whether I would sacrificed the howl of the flat six for it
Before getting my 2014 Cayman S, I drove a couple standard (non-S) 981 Boxsters with manual trans. and found them quite enjoyable to drive. Having moved from a Honda S2000, the base Boxsters still felt excellent to drive, partly I suppose,because of the top-down fun and greater sensation of speed (wind and noice) making up for not having the added grunt of the S model. For the Cayman tho, I'd say it's probably best (but not vital) to go with the S because the sensation of speed is muted a bit by a quieter cabin, HOWEVER ... If you enjoy curvy backroads like I do, either model in base form with the 2.7 flat-six is still an excellent driver's car, and comes with with one very big benefit over the S: Price! You still get everything a 981 offers in quality and driving enjoyment. You just work the revs a little more when you want to GO. And that's a-okay, because it's one of the joys of driving a manual!
Great video, good detail and clarity, not so sure about asking your buddy's opinions later on, that didn't work so well, (I would drop that element for future) but nice to hear someone who speaks clearly and knows his stuff.👍🏻 For me, the 981 looks and sounds better, 718 steers a bit nicer. 981 wins.
Fair critique about 'his buddy'. Perhaps, because we couldn't see his face...we couldn't connect with a real person. However, his buddy did make a good point about looking at the upgraded PCM differences; it may be important to some. I'm looking at a 981 tomorrow, as well as two 718s. I'll spend more time looking in the PCM system differences because of his buddy.
It's a must-have if you like a dropped look and want 20s. I haven't missed it. I don't have 20s so I don't need electronics to compensate for what would otherwise be a rock hard ride.
Thank you for an amazing video. I sensed you might have been a bit uncomfortable because you couldn't come up with the precise words to describe your experience. Sir, it's totally okay. You get a free pass. I owned one of the first 2006 Cayman S from 2006-2010. And, your lack of words actually told me more about your experience than you can realize. The amazement on your face said everything. Don't play poker for money! Lol. You have a tell...a "look of amazement tell." Thank you, sir. I will probably make an offer on a 2016 Cayman S 981 I'm looking at tomorrow. Oh, I really appreciate the tip about where the torque kicks in on the 981 vs 718. I will have an opportunity to look at two 718's tomorrow. Interestingly, they are all priced around the same price point, give or take $5000, mileage, and options.
I’m currently looking for one of these. Can’t decide between the 981 or 718. It’s a struggle to find any 981’s under £30,000. Was yours £30k when you bought it 20 months ago?
I have a 981 S with pdk in agate gray with the sport design steering wheel (the one with the "correct" paddles, 981ers know what i mean). The only thing i'd take out from the newer 718 and put into mine would bei their beautiful new steering wheel with the smaller airbag. i just think that's the most perfect steering wheel i've seen.
I think this is probably the best porsche for the money. I haven't started working yet but hopefully if I can save most of my money and see if I can afford one of these. Heard they are reliable and running cost and even insurance is cheap. Just have to plan my life out first. Might go into property investment first when I start earning money then after hopefully save for something like this
This is legit what I did. Tbh I bought a house just to I did't feel bad about putting so much money into a car. Turned out to be a great move now that covid skyrocketting all the prices, feels financially good, but doesn't compare to how awesome this car makes me feel driving it every day
@@tandimay57 good to hear man 👍. I started my career out and hope to start saving up now for a property. Hope competition for houses dies down after this year
Hi again James. With the help and input from your videos I’ve took the plunge and purchased a 2014 Cayman S. I’m loving it so far after a week of having it. I wonder if you can answer a question tho? I’ve driven in manual (it’s a PDK) with the paddles today and at low revs in 2nd and 3rd there’s a whining type noise which sounds like it’s from the gearbox, is this normal? Many thanks.... Jon
Hi Jon, congrats on the new car! Email me a pic jamesnutt91@gmail.com would love to see it! In terms of the gearbox I wouldn’t say mine whines in second or third on manual mode and I use manual mode a lot, did you buy it from a dealer? James
agree the 981 front looks better and more aggressive. On the rear, not sure if 718 is better looking, looks like the tail does not taper as fluid as 981. Steering wheel of 718 is better.
Bang on review. Mine is a 2016 981 and I get the same big grin on my face every time I drive it. Porsche gave me a new 718 as a courtesy car for the day when mine was in for a service, even before I got in it I was thinking it can’t be anywhere near as good as the 981 with the four cylinders. Totally wrong! Yes the noise is a big let down at first but it is equally as good to drive, if not a little better. By the end of the day the noise had grown on me, it’s quite unique and raw. I live in a very rural area and agree that that the power delivery seemed better suited to tight back roads, more lower down torque, the 981 tends to run out road before it really gets on song, get a bit more road though and it’s a different story, you just can’t get enough of that flat six howl! Don’t be put off buy the four cylinders, it’s a great car. I won’t be changing any time soon though, the music is just too sweet.
About to take delivery of a 981 Cayman S this week in Ireland and I can’t fucking wait. I feel like Mr Toad from Wind in the Willows. Have promised myself a new pair of lederhosen too because I no longer fit into the ones my Mother had me in going to Mass as a child. 😃
@@smaariseth Fantastic. Myself and Erika (my 981 named after a famous German marching song) are having a ball. She is the only thing keeping me sane in the Orwellian world we now live in. 😎
Good review keep it up. Just one thing you might be interested, a company who work closely with Porsche called FVD provide a ECU tune that will give the 981S 352 HP might give the 718S a run for its money. Also worth investing in some fabspeed sport headers. Good hunting.
Yes the 981S , 981GTS and 991 base all share the same 350bhp engine, the only difference being the ECU software. Softronic provide a 360bhp map for the 981S.
Yes, a tune with a header brings better throttle response, more torque and GT3 sound. Due to detuned engine in 981 compared to 911, it´s one of few NA enigenies where tune makes sense. With catted sport headers you can get about 370hp.
Hi James, what are your thoughts comparing this against the 987 (gen2)? Is the 981 worth the extra £10k? Does the hydraulic steering make the 987 a better driving experience? Thanks.
Hi Mark, the 987 is a great car but personally for me the 981 is worth the extra, we’ve owned a 987 the steering is slightly better but still great in the 981!
Sorry guys, but the naturally aspirated 981 is just special in the way the power is delivered, the smoothness of the engine, and the way it screams at 6,000 rpm. I have driven the 718S at the Porsche Experience Silverstone, and I agree is more responsive but it’s nowhere near as engaging as an overall package.👍🏻
Watching this today, having bought a 981CS yesterday, I should have probably done it the other way around ☺ The 981 sounds better clearly and for me that's a huge thing in a sports car. The 718 seems to be a slight improvement in all other ways but I don't think anything makes up for the sound. The 718 doesn't sound awful either, but it takes enough away from the experience for me. I've got the 718 steering wheel (sports wheel with paddles) in my 981 too, I think it feels a bit better but also looks much nicer and makes the cabin look more modern than the standard 981 wheel. I don't have PASM or sports chrono, I was more interested in the colour, condition and history than spec in general. The 1 option I do miss is the upgraded stereo though, the standard one really is pretty bad, but the music comes from the exhaust anyway so I'll get over it!
@@prbassistant2711 718 with an exhaust wouldn't get close to the 981 for sound still. The 718 exhaust isn't bad, it's not about volume. It's like a pub singer vs Adele- no sound system is going to make that pub singer sound as good as her (views on her music aside, she is an awesome singer). 981 isn't really any worse in other ways either.
Looking at getting a 981 in the near future, I was interested in storage as I also play golf so want to make sure it’s useable for that so do you have pics of the golf bag fitting in? Also is the front boot big enough for small trolley? Sorry not the best questions but want a fun everyday sport car that fits around my hobbies
Nutts On Cars. Thanks for getting back to me. Would that be at OPC or from and independent, or from a private finance company, my appetite is whetted! Thanks
All 3 are an option, have a look on autotrader if you are uk based? Some of the adverts have PCP numbers on them so you can put your mileage and deposit in etc and get an idea on the numbers :)
hey, i'm 192cm / 6'3 feet tall. anybody has any advice on how well will i fit in 981? for comparison, i drove bmw Z4 (E85) previously and it felt a bit crammed.
Not sure about the 981 but I’m 6’1 and had a really tough time fitting in a 987. Primary issue was that my knees were up against the steering wheel. I also sat in a Z4 and felt snug but comfortable
Thanks mate, great review and interesting opinions on the options. Personally I'd opt for a manual but not many of them around, so wouldn't be fussed about the sports chrono as you don't get the launch control. On the PASM I agree it improves that stance but longer term questions around cost to maintain if anything starts going wrong. It's pretty easy to lower the passive damper height and you can start adding some of the X73 sports suspension components until you get it exactly how you want. Jay Emm has a review of 981 Cayman S and his view is that you just want to tighten the suspension a small amount to get passive damping perfect for B-roads. Anyways, thanks a lot!
As with most cars, you need to earmark some money for maintenance. The question then is how much that would have to be for a 981 :) Do you think 50-60 bucks per month is reasonable? Because then you are in luck... extended warranty for the 981, including Euro-wide AA coverage, costs ca 60 bucks a month. So either you get a car from a dealership, which will already have the 111 points check, or you need to get a clean car which you can put through the 111 to get the warranty and then your Porsche ownership is very predictable... btw, I just had one of those PDLS+ lights replaced under warranty - would have cost some 2000 bucks, so the warranty for 2 years was already worth it. Anyway, much easier to just pay 50/month, which is not terrible, instead of wondering which part will bankrupt you next ;) After 4.5 years, my 981B GTS basically cost me 10 Pounds a day, that is for fuel, maintenance, ferry/tunnel/motorway/Alpine tolls for 40K miles, but does not include the car price, so if you actually drive it and not just keep in the garage, it will cost you ca 10 Pounds a day. If you don't drive to the Alps every year, then it is more like 7 ;)
But is this worth it with the supra being around the same price as a decent 981S. I definitely rather have the 981 over the 718, but the supra is a much better value for the $50k (U.S.) if the 982 was at $40k then I'd snag it but it's just too much with the competition having a better value for money
@@TheSoundzUK lol but why not? The cars do compete with each other and I see the current 718 gts outperform the Supra but its also another 30k more expensive. The Supra will probably outperform the 718 S and definitely outperform the 981 S, so why wouldn't you get it over the 981S? Is it more of a symbolic thing or an actual value for money thing. I get the build quality and detail and balance of the 981S is top notch, but is all of that worth it over a brand new Supra thats faster, likely just as luxurious, just as quick in a corner, and probably easier and cheaper to maintain. I get having and driving the cayman is more of a "you just have to drive it and then you'll understand" kind of a thing, but on paper I don't see why the cayman would be a better purchase.
I know you have mentioned extending OPC warranty on one of your earlier videos on 981 Cayman S running costs... But I was wondering how comfortable you would be buying a used 981 Cayman S with FPSH and 30-60k miles privately or a trader, not Porsche directly. I'm in the market for one with a similar spec to yours and in my budget (sub £35k) I'm struggling to find any direct from Porsche with a decent spec in that price range. I'm new to Porsche and I'm aware that the 981's pretty reliable, just scared of potential bork factor! Should I be? Based on your experiences and maybe other owners you've spoken to?
Hi J O, I would be ok with it, the 981 is reliable I would just do normal checks and make sure the car has been looked after over the years and you should be fine, you do have a lot of rights as a customer even if you don’t buy it from Porsche so I wouldn’t worry to much. Would you like to buy mine - it’s up for sale £28,995 and the warrant could be extended :). James
I play golf, could you post a pic on Instagram or Twitter with your golf bag and clubs in the back boot? I didn’t think clubs would fit in so I was thinking of the Boxster instead as I know a golf bag can fit in the back of one of those
In terms of length; no you aren't. I'm 195 cm and fit right in. The model before the 981 model would be too small though, but 981 and 718 are fine. In terms of general size; there are two different types of seats; the basic is not narrow at all, the premium ones I'm not sure might be - not sure.
Personally think 981s will age better than 991s. Especially 991.2s because 992.1 covers a lot of what 991.2 covers and more. So when its 20 years later people thatd buy those two generations likepy just pick based on exterior preference
Em EM EM EM is all the fool can say ...does he actually own a Porsche never disliked a review of my favorite car before as i own one.. is the guy 12 ?????
Maybe he’s just alittle nervous man. This guy seems like a way cooler guy than you anyways. Only a 12 year old would be so rude and comment on a video about the negative aspects (in your opinion) of a person reviewing a car... with all the things you can be in this world man; be kind.
Great content,just subscribed to your channel. I bought my first 981 in Feb this year,it’s a 2014 base model with PDK,in rhodium silver with 20” Carrera S wheels and rear GTS lights.Inside it isn’t packed with options but does have the sports design steering wheel,which I really like,oh and heated seats. This is my first ever Porsche and it doesn’t disappoint,it’s my only car and it is at home around town,in traffic,country lanes and motorways.I am retired,so its not required everyday but it suits my needs. For my budget and preference it ticked the boxes,I wanted low miles and low ownership and this one had one owner and less than 18k on the clock with full OPC service history. I did look at the S but thought for the extra few grand I wouldn’t be gaining a whole lot,in my opinion(probably some viewers would disagree). Anyway,keep up the great content and stay safe.👍🏻
Nutts On Cars I could not be happier,they are great cars and if anyone is considering buying one,just do it,you will not regret it. I cannot comment on the 718’s,as I never test drove any,but as this was going to be my first and probably my last Porsche,I wanted to experience that normally aspirated flat six.I have had my fair share of “turbo” cars over the years.I do regret not test driving a manual 981,it was never my intention to own a manual as I was always going to purchase a PDK,but I should have experienced the difference.👍🏻
As an owner not mechanically inclined, my local Porsche dealer senior tech of 30+ years experience told me my 2014 Cayman 981 Basic Model 6 cylinder car is definitely a top priority keeper and he would love to have one himself. He also said it's the most durable because it is a lasting quality 6 cylinder to keep long term because its engine is NOT a turbo. I purchased mine new and it has only 50K miles driven. I have never tracked it, but everyone has their individual wants and priorities. All Porsche sport cars are the best of the best.
Why does tracking a car carry any weight? Taking a car to the track doesn’t mean you’re thrashing it, it only means you’re likely driving it as Porsche designed it.
Most track days can include professional coaches thus become advanced drivers instruction and often covered by insurance and increasing your drivers rating.
The contrast in mood of the presenter from static review to driving says it all. This man is truly happy when behind the wheel - as is probably the case with every Boxster/Cayman owner
I’m the very lucky owner of a 981GTS. I never considered a 718. The GTS is a near supercar with totally usable power and dynamics. I’ve owned five Porsches, all great, but I’m keeping this one forever.
me too...2015 color white
So far watched two clear straight forward videos on my future car! Thanks so much, definitely subscribing!
Great review James. I have a 718 GT4 w/manual and a 981S w/PDK and love them both. With the GT4 I feel like it has all of the advancements of the 718 series but with a great flat-6. The 981 is great in its own right and the sound really is glorious, great daily too. I’m usually at 10 track days a year and both cars will see a lot of Sebring, PBIR and Homestead this year.
Excellent review. Thank you! I'm newly in the market for this model (and also considering a 718) so this is very informative. Cheers!
Seeing how little they changed (aside from the powertrain) from 981 to 718 shows that Porsche definitely got this one right a decade or more back.
The Boxster/Cayman series is a sports car every enthusiast should own someday, and as a 1-year owner of a 981 Cayman S, I could not be happier.
Low-mileage, 2014 Cayman S (981) owner here. For a car as wonderful as this, I do wish I had the extended leather package, but most importantly of all, I have one thing you are missing: A third pedal! 😜 I know, I know... personal preference, but I do love the combination of that 3.4L flat-six and manual transmission; It's truly sublime.
Good videos mate, nice and concise. Thanks a lot.
The 6 cylinder 981 Boxsters/Caymans are utterly fantastic cars - arguably the very best sports cars ever made.
Excellent review and I agree with virtually everything you say.. especially the extended leather, PDK/Chrono, sports steering wheel, classic carrera wheels, However, I would never spec the the false "popping sound" that comes with the optional sports exhaust (I hate it, sounds ridiculous to me) so I wouldn't look for that.
I know some people like the coupe look of the Cayman, but personally I much prefer the look of the Boxster with the top down... and then of course you have the wind in your hair making it a proper all round experience. For me, the engine is the beating heart soul of the car, and the naturally aspirated 6 cylinder just sounds soooooooo much better than the 4 cylinder. It really doesn't matter that the 4 cylinder is a little bit faster - the 6 cylinder is plenty fast enough!! These 981s can only go up in value.. future classics.
yep.. short answer.. get a 981 cayman or boxster.. you will be much happier when you step on the gas.. the sound on the 4 cylinder is awful.. a Subaru sounds better.
Agreed, the 981 Cayman GTS is very, very good particularly with PTV - you can wring it out and with the PSE and it sounds glorious. The 4 cyl whilst technically good takes away from the experience as does the 3L turbo in the 991.2/992 911. Moreover, the 981 still looks great, certainly better than the 992 911 and almost identical to the 718. I have no doubt the 981 with the 3.4L B6 will be a classic. Particularly as they are right sized e.g. enough power and torque for a nice B or C road.
Yep!
Great insight, pick mine up tomorrow
I'll trade that slight extra hit of torque, for the more glorious flat 6 sound ANY day.
Really thinking about getting one of these now ! Love the look & sound plus good value for the money 👌🏻
Couldn’t recommend it highly enough!
Nutts On Cars so torn between the two ! Not normally the biggest fan of white but just think on these they look unreal and with your spec, haven’t driven either just purely going on looks and price wise, always wanted a Porsche but 911 out of reach and always preferred cayman to a boxster
I think any colour looks good with the 20” Carrera Classics, transforms it! Go for it 😃
Value is incredible. I have wanted a Ferrari F430 for many years, but this comes so close I cannot see paying 3-times the price and the service hassles. I call my 981 Cayman S a “junior Ferrari”. Mid-engine, gorgeous looks inside and out, great sound, superb driving dynamics, etc etc etc…
Great video, definatly got me interested in getting one of these 👍
You won’t regret it!
5W -50 can be used for track events as well as everyday. Very knowledgeable overview.
Great review James. Loved it. To answer your question ... the extra weight in the 718 Boxster comes from the soft top mechanism and extra motors needed to drive it.
and the turbo
Back for a second look. I have the 981 S and the only option I truly wish I had after a year of ownership is the active suspension (PASM) for spirited drives on the backroads I live amidst. I drove an S with the sport suspension and found it excellent but a touch too stiff for regular highway driving, so having the option to switch between the two would be the perfect scenario IMO.
Deal breaker? Not on your life! This car is superb in any trim and owning one is a true blessing for any car enthusiast.
I’ve got a Cayman 987 it just makes me smile
They all do, that’s why we love Porsche 😍
That front and rear boot space is a lot better than I thought, all other reviews I've seen just gloss over this and make it seem like its practically useless.
Great and useful review. I have a 718 Boxster GTS with the 4 cylinder engine and I can’t get my head around the awful sound. I’m in the process of trading for a high spec 981S and you have offered some really helpful insights. Too bad you didn’t do in and out car runs with the 718 to compare engine and exhaust sounds.
the sports exhaust as a essential ! It transform the experience
Awesome job!
Nice video James!
Thanks James T
Well done. Thanks!
Hi Nutts on Cars. Great video. Thanks!
I am seriously looking at a 2014 Cayman S 981 with 53,000 miles with Sports feature-not the sports chrono package. One owner. Very well cared for Any thoughts?
Great vid 😊. I’m in the process of either buying a 981GTS or a 718S ! My past car was turbocharged thou (Audi B5 RS4) so it’s a hard discussion
Very good review. As a 981 2.7 manual owner, with the long gearing the one thing I yearn for is a more usable response at lower revs, I think I would like to test drive a 718 to see how that feels.
Having owned the 2.7 I know what you mean about the long gearing, must say thats something that does make the 718 feel a bit more fiery as it runs through the gears much faster.
For those of us who prefer a manual the length of gearing is really key to the driving experience on british roads, I wonder whether I would sacrificed the howl of the flat six for it
Before getting my 2014 Cayman S, I drove a couple standard (non-S) 981 Boxsters with manual trans. and found them quite enjoyable to drive. Having moved from a Honda S2000, the base Boxsters still felt excellent to drive, partly I suppose,because of the top-down fun and greater sensation of speed (wind and noice) making up for not having the added grunt of the S model.
For the Cayman tho, I'd say it's probably best (but not vital) to go with the S because the sensation of speed is muted a bit by a quieter cabin, HOWEVER ...
If you enjoy curvy backroads like I do, either model in base form with the 2.7 flat-six is still an excellent driver's car, and comes with with one very big benefit over the S: Price! You still get everything a 981 offers in quality and driving enjoyment. You just work the revs a little more when you want to GO. And that's a-okay, because it's one of the joys of driving a manual!
How many miles would you keep the 2014 Cayman S for?
Great video, good detail and clarity, not so sure about asking your buddy's opinions later on, that didn't work so well, (I would drop that element for future) but nice to hear someone who speaks clearly and knows his stuff.👍🏻
For me, the 981 looks and sounds better, 718 steers a bit nicer. 981 wins.
Fair critique about 'his buddy'. Perhaps, because we couldn't see his face...we couldn't connect with a real person. However, his buddy did make a good point about looking at the upgraded PCM differences; it may be important to some. I'm looking at a 981 tomorrow, as well as two 718s. I'll spend more time looking in the PCM system differences because of his buddy.
Having PASM is not even an option when it comes to having it on my 981 S... its a must have people! Great video super thorough
It's a must-have if you like a dropped look and want 20s. I haven't missed it. I don't have 20s so I don't need electronics to compensate for what would otherwise be a rock hard ride.
@@eyesurgeon69 true
Doesn’t the car stand a much higher chance of scrapping the pavement with PASM being lower?
Thank you for an amazing video. I sensed you might have been a bit uncomfortable because you couldn't come up with the precise words to describe your experience. Sir, it's totally okay. You get a free pass.
I owned one of the first 2006 Cayman S from 2006-2010. And, your lack of words actually told me more about your experience than you can realize. The amazement on your face said everything. Don't play poker for money! Lol. You have a tell...a "look of amazement tell."
Thank you, sir. I will probably make an offer on a 2016 Cayman S 981 I'm looking at tomorrow. Oh, I really appreciate the tip about where the torque kicks in on the 981 vs 718. I will have an opportunity to look at two 718's tomorrow. Interestingly, they are all priced around the same price point, give or take $5000, mileage, and options.
Can you please add a picture of your 981 with the golf clubs. Can you fit 1 or 2 sets? Just picked up a 981 CS with 12,000 miles. Thanks Dave
I think the Porsche sports exhaust is a good feature to have on the 981 too, sounds better than base exhaust
How do you fit your golf bag in the 981 S? Thanks.
I’m currently looking for one of these. Can’t decide between the 981 or 718. It’s a struggle to find any 981’s under £30,000. Was yours £30k when you bought it 20 months ago?
I have a 981 S with pdk in agate gray with the sport design steering wheel (the one with the "correct" paddles, 981ers know what i mean). The only thing i'd take out from the newer 718 and put into mine would bei their beautiful new steering wheel with the smaller airbag. i just think that's the most perfect steering wheel i've seen.
Wow that's alot more than I thought it would be especially considering you only had to really put tyres on it.
981 essential option is the pse (Porsche Sport Exhaust). Not for the 718 though. It'll just remind you you don't have Porsches iconic flat 6.
I think this is probably the best porsche for the money. I haven't started working yet but hopefully if I can save most of my money and see if I can afford one of these. Heard they are reliable and running cost and even insurance is cheap. Just have to plan my life out first. Might go into property investment first when I start earning money then after hopefully save for something like this
Agreed! Sounds like you’ve got a good plan, let us know how you get on 😃
This is legit what I did. Tbh I bought a house just to I did't feel bad about putting so much money into a car. Turned out to be a great move now that covid skyrocketting all the prices, feels financially good, but doesn't compare to how awesome this car makes me feel driving it every day
@@tandimay57 good to hear man 👍. I started my career out and hope to start saving up now for a property. Hope competition for houses dies down after this year
I am waiting for my first Porsche to be delivered! 2014 White Cayman S with 20" black Carerra wheels. It has less than 30K miles. Can't wait!
Congrats, enjoy!
A 987.2 Cayman S has the same 3.4 DFI Engine and are great and worth it to.
Hi James. Really good video again thanks. I’m also a golfer can you let me know how you get your clubs in please? Do you remove the woods?
Thanks Jon! Yeh remove all the woods and it’s just a standard callaway bag, it’s snug but it goes :)
718 all the way! Having the option to drop the top is great especially in SoCal!
Nah u can get both of em in a convertible form. The 981 he is reviewing is the hardtop version called the cayman
Hi again James. With the help and input from your videos I’ve took the plunge and purchased a 2014 Cayman S. I’m loving it so far after a week of having it. I wonder if you can answer a question tho? I’ve driven in manual (it’s a PDK) with the paddles today and at low revs in 2nd and 3rd there’s a whining type noise which sounds like it’s from the gearbox, is this normal? Many thanks.... Jon
Hi Jon, congrats on the new car! Email me a pic jamesnutt91@gmail.com would love to see it! In terms of the gearbox I wouldn’t say mine whines in second or third on manual mode and I use manual mode a lot, did you buy it from a dealer? James
Love itttt!
agree the 981 front looks better and more aggressive. On the rear, not sure if 718 is better looking, looks like the tail does not taper as fluid as 981. Steering wheel of 718 is better.
Bang on review. Mine is a 2016 981 and I get the same big grin on my face every time I drive it. Porsche gave me a new 718 as a courtesy car for the day when mine was in for a service, even before I got in it I was thinking it can’t be anywhere near as good as the 981 with the four cylinders. Totally wrong! Yes the noise is a big let down at first but it is equally as good to drive, if not a little better. By the end of the day the noise had grown on me, it’s quite unique and raw. I live in a very rural area and agree that that the power delivery seemed better suited to tight back roads, more lower down torque, the 981 tends to run out road before it really gets on song, get a bit more road though and it’s a different story, you just can’t get enough of that flat six howl! Don’t be put off buy the four cylinders, it’s a great car. I won’t be changing any time soon though, the music is just too sweet.
About to take delivery of a 981 Cayman S this week in Ireland and I can’t fucking wait. I feel like Mr Toad from Wind in the Willows. Have promised myself a new pair of lederhosen too because I no longer fit into the ones my Mother had me in going to Mass as a child. 😃
So how is it? Do tell!!
@@smaariseth Fantastic. Myself and Erika (my 981 named after a famous German marching song) are having a ball. She is the only thing keeping me sane in the Orwellian world we now live in. 😎
@@IrishManJT I envy you greatly! Hopefully I will get a chance to own one myself👍
A convertible is always heavier due to a more massive frame, necessary because there is no roof which gives stability.
Good review keep it up. Just one thing you might be interested, a company who work closely with Porsche called FVD provide a ECU tune that will give the 981S 352 HP might give the 718S a run for its money. Also worth investing in some fabspeed sport headers. Good hunting.
Thanks Michael, sounds like a good increase for a naturally aspirated engine!
Yes the 981S , 981GTS and 991 base all share the same 350bhp engine, the only difference being the ECU software. Softronic provide a 360bhp map for the 981S.
Thanks for the info Michael!
Yes, a tune with a header brings better throttle response, more torque and GT3 sound. Due to detuned engine in 981 compared to 911, it´s one of few NA enigenies where tune makes sense. With catted sport headers you can get about 370hp.
The weight comes from the convertible system, they generally add a few hundred pounds actually
What weight? 981 Cayman S and Boxster S weight is the same.
@@arr0gant1 that's not true, a 981 Boxster S weighs in at ~3139lbs with the PDK, and a 981 Cayman S PDK weighs ~3083lbs
@@jasehonfroy8086 sorry buddy, i own one and that's simply not true. Here are the actual specs.
1drv.ms/f/s!Atq0f_QX6k6sg9R_EPs0ttp_iTCtCg
@@arr0gant1 ok
Hi James, what are your thoughts comparing this against the 987 (gen2)? Is the 981 worth the extra £10k? Does the hydraulic steering make the 987 a better driving experience? Thanks.
Hi Mark, the 987 is a great car but personally for me the 981 is worth the extra, we’ve owned a 987 the steering is slightly better but still great in the 981!
981 is Electric steering
I love 718 ❤
does this car has engine cooling fans or only radiator cooling fans
Thanks, I'am literally 15 secs into the vid and I know you're credible
Sorry guys, but the naturally aspirated 981 is just special in the way the power is delivered, the smoothness of the engine, and the way it screams at 6,000 rpm. I have driven the 718S at the Porsche Experience Silverstone, and I agree is more responsive but it’s nowhere near as engaging as an overall package.👍🏻
Golden words. I am a 981 owner. I tried also the 718 before buying. No way turbo 4 cylinders is Porsche. It’s ridiculous, good for Chinese.
Watching this today, having bought a 981CS yesterday, I should have probably done it the other way around ☺ The 981 sounds better clearly and for me that's a huge thing in a sports car. The 718 seems to be a slight improvement in all other ways but I don't think anything makes up for the sound. The 718 doesn't sound awful either, but it takes enough away from the experience for me.
I've got the 718 steering wheel (sports wheel with paddles) in my 981 too, I think it feels a bit better but also looks much nicer and makes the cabin look more modern than the standard 981 wheel. I don't have PASM or sports chrono, I was more interested in the colour, condition and history than spec in general. The 1 option I do miss is the upgraded stereo though, the standard one really is pretty bad, but the music comes from the exhaust anyway so I'll get over it!
No offense but,,, just put an exhaust system in then718 and the sound problem is solved lol. Regardless the 981 is a beast!! Congrats
@@prbassistant2711 718 with an exhaust wouldn't get close to the 981 for sound still. The 718 exhaust isn't bad, it's not about volume. It's like a pub singer vs Adele- no sound system is going to make that pub singer sound as good as her (views on her music aside, she is an awesome singer). 981 isn't really any worse in other ways either.
@@ApothecaryTerry haha good point! Great analogy too
Looking at getting a 981 in the near future, I was interested in storage as I also play golf so want to make sure it’s useable for that so do you have pics of the golf bag fitting in? Also is the front boot big enough for small trolley? Sorry not the best questions but want a fun everyday sport car that fits around my hobbies
Noticed your car on auto trader, what's next? 😁
Freeing up some money for a business venture so something sensible :(
what aboiut cayman s 2014 with 150k milleage ?
nice one sis
Cool 👍😎
The "moket" LOL!
Hi, please can you explain how the 718s is similar in finance to the used Cayman 718 S? Thanks
Really helpful video. Thanks
Hi Michael, the 718 seems to be catching the 981 in price and being a newer car with generally lower miles on PCP the payments end up being close :)
Nutts On Cars. Thanks for getting back to me. Would that be at OPC or from and independent, or from a private finance company, my appetite is whetted! Thanks
All 3 are an option, have a look on autotrader if you are uk based? Some of the adverts have PCP numbers on them so you can put your mileage and deposit in etc and get an idea on the numbers :)
hey, i'm 192cm / 6'3 feet tall. anybody has any advice on how well will i fit in 981? for comparison, i drove bmw Z4 (E85) previously and it felt a bit crammed.
Not sure about the 981 but I’m 6’1 and had a really tough time fitting in a 987. Primary issue was that my knees were up against the steering wheel. I also sat in a Z4 and felt snug but comfortable
6’3” 200lbs here, fit fine.
I’m 6’2” and I fit just fine in my 2014 base Cayman; she’s such a magnificent machine.
6-3 240 pounds and I fit great
Thanks mate, great review and interesting opinions on the options. Personally I'd opt for a manual but not many of them around, so wouldn't be fussed about the sports chrono as you don't get the launch control. On the PASM I agree it improves that stance but longer term questions around cost to maintain if anything starts going wrong. It's pretty easy to lower the passive damper height and you can start adding some of the X73 sports suspension components until you get it exactly how you want. Jay Emm has a review of 981 Cayman S and his view is that you just want to tighten the suspension a small amount to get passive damping perfect for B-roads. Anyways, thanks a lot!
Yeh they are hard to come by! After market suspension definitely an alternative option!
As with most cars, you need to earmark some money for maintenance. The question then is how much that would have to be for a 981 :) Do you think 50-60 bucks per month is reasonable? Because then you are in luck... extended warranty for the 981, including Euro-wide AA coverage, costs ca 60 bucks a month. So either you get a car from a dealership, which will already have the 111 points check, or you need to get a clean car which you can put through the 111 to get the warranty and then your Porsche ownership is very predictable... btw, I just had one of those PDLS+ lights replaced under warranty - would have cost some 2000 bucks, so the warranty for 2 years was already worth it. Anyway, much easier to just pay 50/month, which is not terrible, instead of wondering which part will bankrupt you next ;)
After 4.5 years, my 981B GTS basically cost me 10 Pounds a day, that is for fuel, maintenance, ferry/tunnel/motorway/Alpine tolls for 40K miles, but does not include the car price, so if you actually drive it and not just keep in the garage, it will cost you ca 10 Pounds a day. If you don't drive to the Alps every year, then it is more like 7 ;)
But is this worth it with the supra being around the same price as a decent 981S. I definitely rather have the 981 over the 718, but the supra is a much better value for the $50k (U.S.) if the 982 was at $40k then I'd snag it but it's just too much with the competition having a better value for money
The Supra doesn’t really do much for us
@@TheSoundzUK lol but why not? The cars do compete with each other and I see the current 718 gts outperform the Supra but its also another 30k more expensive. The Supra will probably outperform the 718 S and definitely outperform the 981 S, so why wouldn't you get it over the 981S? Is it more of a symbolic thing or an actual value for money thing.
I get the build quality and detail and balance of the 981S is top notch, but is all of that worth it over a brand new Supra thats faster, likely just as luxurious, just as quick in a corner, and probably easier and cheaper to maintain. I get having and driving the cayman is more of a "you just have to drive it and then you'll understand" kind of a thing, but on paper I don't see why the cayman would be a better purchase.
How does the 2.7 compare ?
Great engine, revs a bit more freely but does miss out on a bit of torque shove when compared to the S
Only thing your missing is ptv and pse for a pure drivers car.
About double that price in my country for a real nice one.
How do they handle the winter months?
Absolutely fine, also surprisingly good in the snow - must be the engines positioning.
@@nuttsoncars2710
Really, that's the only thing putting me off the 981. It's a toss up between that and a mk3 tts. Have you any knowledge of the tts?
I love these videos. It's my daily driver and I average 34.5MPH......thats why I need 400HP!!!!
I know you have mentioned extending OPC warranty on one of your earlier videos on 981 Cayman S running costs... But I was wondering how comfortable you would be buying a used 981 Cayman S with FPSH and 30-60k miles privately or a trader, not Porsche directly. I'm in the market for one with a similar spec to yours and in my budget (sub £35k) I'm struggling to find any direct from Porsche with a decent spec in that price range. I'm new to Porsche and I'm aware that the 981's pretty reliable, just scared of potential bork factor! Should I be? Based on your experiences and maybe other owners you've spoken to?
Hi J O, I would be ok with it, the 981 is reliable I would just do normal checks and make sure the car has been looked after over the years and you should be fine, you do have a lot of rights as a customer even if you don’t buy it from Porsche so I wouldn’t worry to much. Would you like to buy mine - it’s up for sale £28,995 and the warrant could be extended :). James
@@nuttsoncars2710 Sounds good - Do you have a link to the advert?
Here you go...
www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/202006029725958?atmobcid=soc3
James
I made a video documenting some issues and how to address them, to be honest there wasn't a lot of issues to worry about if you look after them.
Agreed, I think take the risk
I play golf, could you post a pic on Instagram or Twitter with your golf bag and clubs in the back boot?
I didn’t think clubs would fit in so I was thinking of the Boxster instead as I know a golf bag can fit in the back of one of those
Hi Tiger, what’s your email address I’ll send one across
Did your golf clubs fit in your 981 Boxster?
I'm 6'2" (188 cm). And weight 270lbs. Am I too big and fat for this thing? It's my dream car.
In terms of length; no you aren't. I'm 195 cm and fit right in. The model before the 981 model would be too small though, but 981 and 718 are fine. In terms of general size; there are two different types of seats; the basic is not narrow at all, the premium ones I'm not sure might be - not sure.
Anyone else think that FL tire is flat?
The most essential option the car doesn’t have......without switchable sports exhaust I wouldn’t even bother test driving it
I know, I would of loved one 😢
@@nuttsoncars2710 don’t trip bro you still have a fucking scalpel of a tool of a car ;)
Its so tough....:)
Personally think 981s will age better than 991s. Especially 991.2s because 992.1 covers a lot of what 991.2 covers and more. So when its 20 years later people thatd buy those two generations likepy just pick based on exterior preference
if he says “uhhh yeah” one more time!!!
Erm... forgive me if I'm wrong but you're comparing a 981 Cayman S to a 718
Boxster S? 🤔🙈. Completely different cars if so....
was confused as well, but the blue one is a boxster
Nice video you definitely needs pse !
I know would love it 😩
Under 30k for the 981… not any more!
Headlight washers are butt-ugly. Otherwise nice.
I wish 718 had 817's front bumper and its engine and it'd be perfect. 718 has a better looking ass but uglier front.
You are clearly northern
Not sure about that
The name of this channel is tragic.
With the cars and style of the house this looks like some over paid , lacking in taste footballer's home
Yeah but the cars could be worse
Em EM EM EM is all the fool can say ...does he actually own a Porsche never disliked a review of my favorite car before as i own one.. is the guy 12 ?????
Complimented you think I’m 12, apologies you to put you through watching it
Maybe he’s just alittle nervous man. This guy seems like a way cooler guy than you anyways. Only a 12 year old would be so rude and comment on a video about the negative aspects (in your opinion) of a person reviewing a car... with all the things you can be in this world man; be kind.
Great content,just subscribed to your channel.
I bought my first 981 in Feb this year,it’s a 2014 base model with PDK,in rhodium silver with 20” Carrera S wheels and rear GTS lights.Inside it isn’t packed with options but does have the sports design steering wheel,which I really like,oh and heated seats.
This is my first ever Porsche and it doesn’t disappoint,it’s my only car and it is at home around town,in traffic,country lanes and motorways.I am retired,so its not required everyday but it suits my needs.
For my budget and preference it ticked the boxes,I wanted low miles and low ownership and this one had one owner and less than 18k on the clock with full OPC service history.
I did look at the S but thought for the extra few grand I wouldn’t be gaining a whole lot,in my opinion(probably some viewers would disagree).
Anyway,keep up the great content and stay safe.👍🏻
Thanks Mr GoodKat!
Sounds like a nice example, they are great cars in standard or S form!
Nutts On Cars I could not be happier,they are great cars and if anyone is considering buying one,just do it,you will not regret it.
I cannot comment on the 718’s,as I never test drove any,but as this was going to be my first and probably my last Porsche,I wanted to experience that normally aspirated flat six.I have had my fair share of “turbo” cars over the years.I do regret not test driving a manual 981,it was never my intention to own a manual as I was always going to purchase a PDK,but I should have experienced the difference.👍🏻
Have you driven much in bad conditions ?
bud wise No I haven’t,since owning the 981 the weather has been fine.