Valentines morning we were on the road at 7.15am to meet our breakfast date. It was going to be a ‘one-morning-date-only’ and we got the wife’s blessing.
Yes, were one of the select lucky media to meet and drive without hesitation the all new Cayman GT4 on the Sepang Circuit. It was also the Porsche official track day, the 1st for 2016 and the star of the morning was this all new Cayman GT4.
Already almost sold out….only 1 unit is left at the time of writing and with 20 odd happy owners behind the wheel, this was going to be a collector’s item as there would be no more units imported into Malaysia officially. It might also be the last Porsche Cayman with a manual gearbox.
Priced from RM840,000.00 before being loaded with the many possible options, our test GT4 had RM140,000 worth of options fitted. Options like the full shell seats made of carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) and the specialized interior trim is part of the Porsche personalization program and is available for all their models.
It’s Capability
This is the first time Porsche is introducing a GT sports car based on the Cayman which has components of the 911 GT3. This car has already set an impressive lap time of 7 minutes and 40 seconds on the North Loop of the Nürburgring so we were ready to see what gives in this sports car developed at the Porsche Motorsport department in Weissach.
It’s Power Unit
The engine, chassis, brakes and aerodynamic design of this Cayman GT4 are configured for maximum driving dynamics. It is powered by a 3.8-litre flat-six engine with 385hp, which is derived from the 911 Carrera S engine. Its power is always transmitted by a 6-speed manual gearbox with dynamic gearbox mounts.
The Cayman GT4 accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds; its top speed is 295km/h. The chassis features a 3mm lower body position and a generously sized brake system that consists nearly entirely of components from the 911 GT3.
It’s Physical Features
On its exterior, the Cayman GT4 is clearly differentiated from related mid-engine coupes. Three distinctive inlet openings at the front and a large fixed rear wing are part of an aerodynamic package which is systematically designed for downforce. Upon request, the Cayman GT4 can be equipped even more comprehensively for sporty use. Options include the PCCB ceramic brake system, a custom Sport Chrono Package with the unique Track Precision app and a Club Sport Package.
It’s Cabin
The interior of the Cayman GT4 is designed so that the driver and front passenger can experience unfiltered driving enjoyment. They sit on sport seats, upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara, which are distinguished by very good lateral support. The new GT4 sport steering wheel promises ideal control and direct steering feedback due to its compact dimensions.
It’s Delivery To The Driver
Form ignition we knew that this was going to be ‘special’, yes very special. The engine delivers a muted rumble at idle. The 6-speed gear lever sits high and your elbow rests well on the center console. The traditional handbrake level is missing and substituted with an electronic version. The instruments are clear and easy to read. To lighten the GT4 many little interior ‘bits’ are replaced. A roll cage is added and we had optional carbon raced seats for our torso.
Right after the 1st corner we gunned the throttle in 2nd gear and the GT4 lurched forward in impressive pace. It is somewhat sane, not an animal in its power delivery. The next sharp right and immediate left was taken in pace and then we gunned the GT4 in 3rd gear. The clutch is surprisingly light and the gear gates short and precise.
The GT4 in 3rd gear shows its torque delivery with the engine working like a superbike. The 0-100km/h dash is done in just 4.4 seconds which is just 0.2 seconds slower than the soon to arrive all new 911. Top speed is 295km/h which mirrors the all-new 911 and despite a lower torque (by 30Nm) of 420Nm, this GT4 never feels like its running of breath on the fast straight as we hit 210km/h plus.
The brakes bite tenaciously with no fade or retardation and the steering follows your palm inputs with precision. This is a very focused sports car and even if it loses out to its older sibling the 911 GT3 on the straights, it makes up the time on the corners.
It is obvious that Porsche engineers will not give this chassis more horsepower to protect the sales enthusiasm of the 911. We however have no need for more horsepower and instead want steering communication, biting brakes, a slick gearbox and quick response off the line, all that this Cayman GT4 delivers in spades.
Porsche Cayman GT4 Specifications
Engine: Flat-6 VarioCam
Capacity: 3800cc
Gearbox: 6-speed manual
Max power: 385bhp @ 7400rpm
Max torque: 420Nm @ 4750-6000rpm
Top Speed: 295km/h
0-100 km/h: 4.4 secs
Price: RM840,000.00
