Planet 9

Cicio · #1 08-11-2008, 02:08 PM

Is it safe to say the CS is as good as a 996 Carrera? Maybe even better do to it's mid-engine layout?

fmarshall · #2 08-11-2008, 02:15 PM

It's safe to say that the Cayman S is newer, faster, better handling, and more beautiful than a 996. Okay, so the beauty call is biased. The rest are all fact.

NNH · #3 08-11-2008, 02:33 PM

I've switched from a 996 to a C 2.7, and I'm happy with the swap: the improvement in handling is great.

gmsracing · #4 08-11-2008, 02:35 PM

Porsche purposefully choked the engine so the output is less than the 997/996. But that being said, it is a better sports car. Spend a couple grand on engine breathing mods and it surpases a base 996 or 997. They are just a much easier car to drive. Kind of like the 911/944 arguement of the '80's. Slap an ECU upgrade in a 944 turbo and no stock 911 could keep up with one on the street or the track. They were just faster and handled better. Same argument for the Cayman 3.4.

Jim Michaels · #5 08-11-2008, 03:27 PM

Cicio: It's pretty safe to say that here; see what you get when you post that on the 996 board at rennlist.com

Cayman S · #6 08-11-2008, 04:35 PM

The 987 is leagues ahead of the 996, IMO. I was considering a 996 C4S before buying my car.

I found it to be too big, sloppy, uninspiring, of inferior build quality, etc. Just drive them back to back - you'll see what I mean.

**Chupacabra** · #7 08-11-2008, 06:24 PM

I have to agree...I'm in and out of cars constantly, and as a result I'm pretty neutral and realistic with my comparisons, even though I love the CS. My truly unbiased opinion is that the CS is definitely well ahead of a 996 C2 in terms of performance, looks, and layout. It's a small thing, but I never could get used to those amoeba-looking headlights on the 6 series cars. Ditto for the interior.

NNH · #8 08-11-2008, 07:57 PM

Originally Posted by Jim Michaels

Cicio: It's pretty safe to say that here; see what you get when you post that on the 996 board at rennlist.com

Not fair: my friends on the 996 Rennlist board were interested and supportive of my move to the 987

petrolheadsg · #9 08-11-2008, 09:34 PM

Originally Posted by NNH

Not fair: my friends on the 996 Rennlist board were interested and supportive of my move to the 987

I moved from a 996C4 to a 987 S and while I loved my 996 as its my first porker...I personally feel that the 987 S is an easier car to drive aggressively/sporty with.

I dont miss

the rear engine layout (although Porsche purists would likely lynch me for this)

I do miss

The availability of 2 extra seats in the rear for my kids

then again...I now have more opportunity to drive on my own :-)

bk12 · #10 09-17-2008, 09:02 AM

Originally Posted by Cayman S

The 987 is leagues ahead of the 996, IMO. I was considering a 996 C4S before buying my car.

I found it to be too big, sloppy, uninspiring, of inferior build quality, etc. Just drive them back to back - you'll see what I mean.

I am not trying to be a troll here...I am a 996 C2 owner, and have spent a weekend putting 1000 mlles on a Cayman a few months ago. I guess I can understand (although I don't agree) the uninspiring comment...maybe the big comment (I thought the Cayman felt claustrophobic), but the build quality? I guess I didn't really get that impression at all. I undertand from a friend in the industry that the Caymans and Boxters are made by a different company under contract for Porsche, but I assumed their quality didn't surpass Porsche (I would expect it to be similar or equal).

Anyway, I have spent some time lurking on this site, because I think it would be great to add a Cayman S at some point in the future for something different (the future will be sooner than later if they put 911-like power into the Cayman), but I am a bit shocked at the 911 bashing in general.

NNH · #11 09-17-2008, 09:14 AM

Originally Posted by bk12

I am not trying to be a troll here...I am a 996 C2 owner, and have spent a weekend putting 1000 mlles on a Cayman a few months ago. I guess I can understand (although I don't agree) the uninspiring comment...maybe the big comment (I thought the Cayman felt claustrophobic), but the build quality? I guess I didn't really get that impression at all. I undertand from a friend in the industry that the Caymans and Boxters are made by a different company under contract for Porsche, but I assumed their quality didn't surpass Porsche (I would expect it to be similar or equal).

Anyway, I have spent some time lurking on this site, because I think it would be great to add a Cayman S at some point in the future for something different (the future will be sooner than later if they put 911-like power into the Cayman), but I am a bit shocked at the 911 bashing in general.

I agree that I can't see much difference in build quality, and that was after taking my 996 to 100k, including 40k on M030 suspension. I personally enjoy the Cayman handling more than the 996 because I find it more intuitive, but I do miss the torque of the 3.6 engine, and the extra inch of legroom.

**Chupacabra** · #12 09-17-2008, 10:19 AM

Originally Posted by bk12

I am not trying to be a troll here...I am a 996 C2 owner, and have spent a weekend putting 1000 mlles on a Cayman a few months ago. I guess I can understand (although I don't agree) the uninspiring comment...maybe the big comment (I thought the Cayman felt claustrophobic), but the build quality? I guess I didn't really get that impression at all. I undertand from a friend in the industry that the Caymans and Boxters are made by a different company under contract for Porsche, but I assumed their quality didn't surpass Porsche (I would expect it to be similar or equal).

Anyway, I have spent some time lurking on this site, because I think it would be great to add a Cayman S at some point in the future for something different (the future will be sooner than later if they put 911-like power into the Cayman), but I am a bit shocked at the 911 bashing in general.

I think for most "bashers" here, the 911 criticism is purely reactionary. No one can deny that the 911 is an icon among performance vehicles, and when pressed, I doubt they will even try. So, the car definitely has our respect...but a lot of people here have received negative comments about their Caymans from 911 owners. "That's not a REAL Porsche." "The engine is in the rear on a REAL Porsche." That leads to some sour tastes and maybe a little bit of animosity...but that's most likely too strong a word.

People also smell fear, and that's typically when you strike. What reason would a 911 owner have for not returning a friendly wave or completely engaging in a conversation with a fellow Porschephile? Could it be sibling rivalry, especially considering the fact that Mom had to hold little brother down a little?

You hit on another point in your post -- the power. One would have to be a dullard not to realize the incredible performance potential that is inherent in the CS design and how well that potential would be highlighted and showcased if the car had power like that of a 911. So, it might be more expensive...I think most of us here wouldn't mind paying a little extra. The choice between 911/CS really doesn't come down to $$ for most -- it's about the difference in feel and dynamics between the two automobiles. You can mod a CS for the amount of a C2 and have a hell of a car!

Personally, I LOVE 911s...all of them. They all have a unique look, good performance, tons of history on and off track, and are reliable, beautiful, and well built machines. Some of them may develop maintenance issues, but show me a truly special car that won't. I don't love the 996 headlights, but I would still consider buying a 996 GT3 or Turbo, and I would recommend to anyone looking for a great car at a decent price to look into a properly sorted 996, 993, etc.

I think most people here are very realistic about the whole thing and will never tell you that a 911 is a POS. So, definitely stick around, learn a little, and pick up a Cayman to augment and contrast your other great car!

**check 6** · #13 09-17-2008, 04:36 PM

I have read several posts that quote "the engine is in the rear of a real Porsche" Well since I have owned and still own a 911( 1983 Euro spec SC track car) in addition to my Cayman S I would have to ask if the quote above is true then the 550 Spyder, the 904 GTS, the 906, 908, 910 and 917 are not real Porsches as they are mid engine vehicles and thus must give back all the championships they won. No folks they are all real Porsche automobiles and each designed with the specific purpose of winning. The later 911 vehicles are a little wide in the hips but so are most of us over 60. The Cayman S just a real fun, well balanced vehicle that effortlessly performs well. Mine is a 2008 and I will trade for the next model with its direct fuel injection (more power) limited slip differential (all Porsches need this) and hopefully they will change the instrument cluster and remove the silly analog speedometer and in its place put a oil temp and oil pressure gauge then WOW. My .02 cents worth.

DFI

Direct Fuel Injection (DFI), is a new technology that Porsche states can cut fuel consumption by up to 15 percent, while increasing power by up to 13 percent. DFI cuts emissions by warming up the catalytic converter more quickly, and ensures a sharper throttle response. Better for your right foot - and the planet, then.

DFI allows much more precise measurement of fuel supply and injection at pressures up to 120 bar; it has numerous combustion modes, with different cycles for cold-starting, low-speed driving and performance driving.

As the name suggests, DFI injects fuel directly into the individual combustion chambers, instead of the intake manifold. The injector valves have an electromagnetic mechanism that controls each injection with astonishing precision, while a high-pressure pump provides the necessary pressure—up to 1,740 psi—to accompany the rapid fire of the fuel injection.

Precise geometry of the injector’s position and its spray pattern is a key factor in helping to improve power, torque and emissions of the engines. The specific placement of the fuel as it enters each chamber creates a swirl that improves the air/fuel mixture, and therefore the overall combustion process.

At engine speeds up to 3500 rpm, a double-injection process is used. In this mode, the required fuel volume is delivered in two successive injections per working stroke. The resulting benefits include faster catalyst warm-up and increased torque in the upper load range.

By forming the air/fuel mix directly in the combustion chamber, DFI contributes to engine cooling. As a result, it is possible to increase the compression ratio and with it the power and efficiency of the engine.

The direct injection process is continuously adjusted. The engine management system reads changes to throttle inputs and performance requirements and, as you drive, the air/fuel mix is monitored and adapted as required. Oxygen sensor circuits within the exhaust system provide accurate emissions control.

**Chupacabra** · #14 09-17-2008, 10:05 PM

Originally Posted by check 6

I have read several posts that quote "the engine is in the rear of a real Porsche" Well since I have owned and still own a 911( 1983 Euro spec SC track car) in addition to my Cayman S I would have to ask if the quote above is true then the 550 Spyder, the 904 GTS, the 906, 908, 910 and 917 are not real Porsches as they are mid engine vehicles and thus must give back all the championships they won. No folks they are all real Porsche automobiles and each designed with the specific purpose of winning. The later 911 vehicles are a little wide in the hips but so are most of us over 60. The Cayman S just a real fun, well balanced vehicle that effortlessly performs well. Mine is a 2008 and I will trade for the next model with its direct fuel injection (more power) limited slip differential (all Porsches need this) and hopefully they will change the instrument cluster and remove the silly analog speedometer and in its place put a oil temp and oil pressure gauge then WOW. My .02 cents worth.

Exactly...yet another thing that gives some 911 owner a bad image -- no idea of the history behind the cars!

Dunebasher · #15 09-18-2008, 12:08 AM

For me based on numerous reviews etc. I would say if you are comparing 996 with the CS then yes the CS is on most points the winner, but I'm guessing it is slightly different when comparing with a 997.

Not having driven a 911 I am guessing that the CS is much easier to drive at its limit in terms of the chassis compared to the 911 with all its rear end weight......but I think that is very appealing as it might just take that little more effort to tame the beast!

I love the feeling inside the cayman of being enclosed and almost at one with the car, and as at the moment I don't need 4 seats and prefer to drive by myself if I'm honest the CS is the right car for me.

People keep talking about Porsche chocking the power on the CS to save 911 sales, but that is cr@p as far as I can see. The CS (like the boxster) is meant to be the entry level Porsche and the use of the 3.4 engine is simply a matter of costs.

Although the 911 is a classic shape that is timeless the looks of the Cayman steals it for me, the roof line is perfect and the rear humps and butt are the icing!