@@juannumbaone9142 😂 Nah, lol, Just thought you might be talking about this dude on YT. No Link, so just dial it in , then view the comments. "BMW E39 5 Series Airbag Light Reset" ...An early one of around 9,000 uploads!!
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I own a 981 cayman s manual and it is something else. Everytime I drive it, it's like the first time I ever drove it. Always puts a huge smile on my face.
Hey mate, any advice, tossing up between around a 2015 model of either Cayman 981 S, Jag F Type R, or the Lexus LC 500, all similar priced with around 40,000 miles on it, the Cayman sounds like the answer, except the other two seem to have an amazing v8 roar and luxury inside? Will be test driving then soon, just started looking
@user-xi2gb1fb6i can't really speak for the other two but I will tell you the cayman will corner better than both. I'll also say that since mine has the sports exhaust the sound is almost worth the price alone. Back when I was in the market, I was picking between this and a c7 corvette and although I love the v8 roar as well, I don't regret my decision one bit when it comes to sound. Plus insurance was cheaper on the porsche.
Thanks for your response, looks like the standard Cayman S doesn't come with a PSE? So I guess I'll try and find a used one with a PSE fitted already, I'm in Australia so I think it will be costly getting one installed here as these cars are pretty rare here. I currently have an Audi A7, was going for a used Audi RS7 again it's a V8 but now leaning toward this porsche after all the positive reviews and the value for $$ to own a high end car. Audi and BMW can get expensive with oil leaks and various electronic malfunctions which I have had to pay for for my A7, how is the Cayman 981 from a fault side of things?
@@Mrhappy33664 I personally like the exterior look to the GTS over the S. At the time of purchase there wasn't too many 981S that were too well specced up available. PSE sounds incredible on the GTS. Some say it is slightly different to older cayman S cars. I still have the car :)
I had a 2015 Cayman. I loved it and I miss it. I might get another one soon. It feels like exactly my kind of car. It’s not too showy, it’s daily drivable and it’s a lot of fun. I think it’s one of the most beautiful car designs ever and the 718 was a step in the wrong direction not just for sound but also for style.
@@udhisilva738 Just got a 981 Cayman S as part of my later-life (low-60's), accelerated plan to have cool cars - up to one different one per year. One month into ownership, and I dread the idea of ever letting go of this beautiful masterpiece of a sports car.
I own a 981S but i think the 718 has the more modern and better design (i especially like the rear part with the leds and the placement of the porsche letters, and the steering wheel design plus the LED headlights)
Great honest review as ever. I have a 981 (GTS) and it’s the most wonderful balanced drive. Less visceral and slower than a later model 911 but smaller and much more placeable and I’d argue on typical tight Southern UK roads. Scotland would be a different matter. Image continues to hold it back , perpetuated I think by folks who have never driven one. But the Porsche DNA is evident everywhere. Not so much a poor mans 911 as a thinking mans Porsche.
Amen. I drive back roads in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills (Virginia, USA), and cannot think of a better automobile at any price that would be better - with one caveat. I'm in a 981 Cayman S, and kinda wish I had gotten the GTS. Next Spring will be a new year when I always get the itch ;)
@@BobC59 hehe ended up getting an N55 435i, test drove a 981 S and I don’t regret my decision. Figured I’d rather save up for a 911 4s or sell the 435 and get an RS4 and a Cayman GT4 for the weekend. (Currently undecided but will tell you which route I go down, probs about 6 months from pulling the trigger)
Just got a 2013 Boxster S. Having transitioned from a 987.1 Cayman S to this car, I can confidently say that the 981 series is truly one of the best driving experiences I’ve ever had, a high water mark for Porsche. I love it!
I am just thinking about the same change that you made. I have a 2007 cayman S with just 22k miles, looking at cayman s or Boxster s models (981) - can I ask what you found the main benefits are?
@@gbart2679 Main benefits of the 981 over the 987 are: updated interior, more responsive and overall better engine (seem to be bullet proof and no IMS worry), better brakes, great suspension (I have X73), better ride overall. The one thing the 987 does have over the 981 is the hydraulic steering, but the steering in the 981 is still very good.
You lucky bastard. I bought one brand new for over 100 :( it's still holding around 80k ish for my spec but obviously dealers will give you some ridiculous low pricing and market value really doesn't reflect onto the real owners unfortunately
I bought my 987.2 Cayman S PDK 9 months ago and I love it. I was really wanting the 981 but I picked up my car for about 15K (US) less than I would have had to spend on the 981. I prefer the looks of the 981, but my car seems magical at times. Sport Chrono is the real deal, especially on the track!
I can't decide which looks better, the 987.2 really has more character, looks more retro, and I think I prefer the less cluttered interior, but you can argue it either way.
Best car I ever drove was a manual 2007, Cayman 987 S. An Incredible handling and well balanced ride; with the perfect amount of power. If you find a clean one in good condition buy it!!!👍🏻😊
After a LOT of research got myself a 987.2 Boxster S pretty recently and I have to say, it may well be the best sports car I've ever owned. And I've had a few.... I was also quite shocked how easy basic maintenance is, and by the quite reasonable insurance costs. Really, none of the used Boxster or Caymans can be beat right now for what you can get for pretty reasonable money.
Cayman always looked and felt more evisceral than the 911 as most people would agree Mid engine is superior to Rear engine if you only need a 2 seat sports car
I owned a 987.2 S in 2018 and all I wanted was a 981 due to the shape. Yet, after selling the 987, I bought another 987.2 2.9 this year and I wouldn't change it for anything else. The shape in the last couple of years has become (to me at least) a modern classic. It's funny how over time the shape of a car can go from 'a bit last season' to 'wow, it's sooo nice.'
@@danparry834 much better than most people believe. I get 350 miles on a full tank (give or take depending on how I drive it) and it sails through MOT/services. I've had much cheaper cars that cost me a lot more money. Also, if I was to sell my Cayman today, it's worth at least 5K more than when I bought it.
@@wongkey2 good question. Honestly, it's a tough comparison because my 987.2 2.9 now is such a better example (25,000 miles, immaculate) and I love the PDK + useable power. My Cayman S was a manual and I used to hate the super heavy clutch, I also lived in London so would constantly be using it. I'm sure it's all personal preference, all I would say is drive both and see which works for you.
Jayemm,...Great review here, you make a refreshing change from the gurning overblown child-like presentation styles of JC, RH, JM, VBH, JP and TN. I drive a Manual 08 model 987.1 S and it's the best car I've ever owned. It's covered 91K miles and coming up to 12yrs old but it looks and drives like a 3yr old 30K miler. I sometimes hanker for the kudos of owning a 911 but I know it won't give me any more pleasure and fun than my Cayman. Keep up the good work,...I've subscribed.😎
I have a 2014 981S, MT, PSE, PASM, Sport+, PTV, PDLS and I love driving the thing for any reason. Considered a 718S and I liked the increased torque but am sticking with the 981S for now.
@@Jay-xr3sb funny you should mention it, but I got a 718 GTS (4L motor). I pick her up in a few days. I had a 718 base and S loaner in the past. I like the torque but the motor sounds like a WRX and the shift points on a manual are very different due to the lower red-line. If I had to choose, I'd stay in the 981S.
@@dp2901 congrats on the gts 4.0, I took that for a test drive and it's fantastic, but well out of my budget. The Porsche rep was trying to sell me a build that someone had rejected, about £82k in brown! Used with low miles they are £65k, but I've found a 981S for £33k, 2014 car with all options! I collect in a week. I never got around to driving the 718 turbos, I don't think I will bother until I've had my fun with the 981
I own a pretty identical spec'd Cayman S, with PDK, Sports Exhaust etc and LOVE it!!! The sound is insane, this vid doesn't do the sound quite the justice it needs. Loved the video still
@@sniperBOBAH its not sound thats issue, its his price tag. it just doesn't make sense on the market, since its already in 911 price range. Nobody will buy them. Mark my words. I know I wouldn't if I could afford even base 991.2.
I have a 2015 981 Cayman S and it is a car I'd like to keep a lot longer. I've owned a 2017 991 and I honestly like my Cayman S a little better. It has always bothered me a bit when I hear the term "poor man's Porsche". My 981 in 2015 cost $86k (hardly a poor man's car). I definitely prefer my 981 to the 718 and I've driven both the 718 Cayman and Boxster. They are quicker but I have a set of aftermarket headers paired with my Porsche Sport Exhaust and it is glorious not all farty like a 718. A GT3 does not sound much better. BTW, I am also a former Lotus owner. I once owned an 89 Esprit SE, then a 95 Esprit S4S and also a 1970 Europa S2. The Europa was modified with what was known as the Gordini engine and a couple of side draught Webers. Out of all of them the S4S was kinda like a starship for the day but I kept the Europa the longest because it was just so fun to drive on and off the track. I kept it until 2006 and wish I still owned it.
Hey mate, any advice, tossing up between around a 2015 model of either Cayman 981 S, Jag F Type R, or the Lexus LC 500, all similar priced with around 40,000 miles on it, the Cayman sounds like the answer, except the other two seem to have an amazing v8 roar and luxury inside? Will be test driving then soon, just started looking
Excellent review on an excellent car! Just wish it could carry a spare! (actually the wheel you take off when you put a space saver spare on!) Keep it up - when’s your Top Gear interview?
Got myself a ‘14 S. Sport Seats, Sport Exhaust, Sport Suspension (non adaptive), with the 6 speed. It’s brilliant, it’s fast enough to have fun, handles exceptionally well, and is big enough to hold a passenger and things. I even got 32mpg on a 200 mile highway stint! Every drive is an occasion, and I’ve actually grown to appreciate the gearing, it really gives some satisfaction to getting to redline. Though, were it my choice, I’d definitely shorten it. 6th I actually find to be a bit short given 2nd maxes out at 81 mph
Personally, I drive a 987 Cayman S quite often with a manual box, I feel like the base model might just give you a bit more fun on the road. On the track sure, but with the S you never really get to use most of what it has to offer. Torque is great, but I'd really like to wring it out a bit and the gear ratios really inhibit that as well - you're hitting over any sensible national limit at the top of 2nd gear which is a bit ridiculous
thats bs, with such weak NA engine you want all the power you can get and then mod intake and exhaust + tune to get everything out of it. Second part I agree fully.
I was lucky enough to own a 981 Cayman GTS for a couple of years, but the sensations (steering, acceleration and worst of all, suspension) were so woolly compared to my 987.2 Boxster S that I sold it and got a Cayman 987.2 S Black Edition. It's exactly what I was looking for!
Had a 987 Cayman S. Sold if after three months. couldn't get on with the bone jarring ride (19's) driver seat back rest touched the bulkhead and squeaked all the time. Clutch bite point was very high and the brakes feel wooden. Now in a M240i and love it.
I’ve had two 981 Cayman S cars and while they were incredibly great handling cars, I felt they were quite underpowered. I have ordered the new GTS 4.0 Cayman so am hoping the extra horsepower and increased torque will really make it the perfect drivers’ car!
I have a 911 and a 981 Boxster S (same engine as the Cayman) and the Boxster isnt as quick as the 911. It's quick enough, but the 911 is still king for me.
@@MrElnuno I agree, the 911 is king, its been my dream car since childhood. I just think that day to day regular driving I probably wouldn't notice much difference, giving it the beans then I definitely don't doubt I would.....oh would I notice!!
@@MrElnuno I have 2014 981 Cayman S. PDK, Sports Chrono, after market sports exhaust... Tweaked ecu to 364hp, 420Nm. 0-100km/h 3.89sec.. Awesome drive, 911 performance in a mid-engined marvel. Won't sell this baby!
Not having driven one I have to go by the judgment of others, but the manual is apparently even longer geared than the PDK, and whilst it’s a slick box, you could probably drive a b-road and never really leave 2nd.
Very true. I found exactly that in a test drive back in the day, comparing brand new 981s to each other. I liked the X73 much better than the PASM or regular non-PASM suspension. Its the difference between loving the car and not wanting the car.
My PDK 981s was a great all-rounder. The problem for me was that the combination of the gearing (even with PDK) the torque curve and the chassis means the car only really comes alive at license losing speeds. The manual has significantly higher gearing than PDK - 84vs70 in 2nd 115vs100 in third. It's an excellent manual box - but most of the gears are redundant too much of the time
I'm in the market for a 981 at the moment and have to agree. I was looking at manuals because I love to row through the gears and heel n toe as it's a sports car but the gear ratios have steered me towards the Pdk (which is still very long geared!) It hasn't detracted from the search too much mind, they're superb cars, hard to fault!
981OEM sports exhausts don’t always shout &scream, nor do they all pop and crackle very well on the overrun. Mine certainly didn’t live up to expectations and i felt it was a total waste of money. Rest of the car was great.
JayEmm on Cars I’m not certain. The sports exhaust has a button with an exhaust symbol on. And with the standard exhaust you shouldn’t have the button. To me that sounds very muffled compared to the pse.
Porsche Cayman is the best option the Ur - Cayman 987 the last analog Porsche base engine or the 981 that are Porsche’s real sports cars not the 911 anymore it is small best design mid engine price reasonable and these cars will be future classics not the 911’s sorry but that’s how it is😉
where were you driving this time? Looked pretty nice. Caymans & Boxsters continue to get better, except for the engine note. The Taycan looks like it's most likely to be the new favourite Porsche, except for that price!!!
Hi James, I was speaking to a Porsche Representative here in Australia a few months ago, and he basically assured me that the next generation of Boxster/Cayman would be reverting to a 6 cylinder. I assume turbo-charged.
What do you think of the steering feel on the 981 given its change to electric PAS - compared to the 987? I think the steering is possibly the only compelling reason (on paper that is) to consider the 987? Cheers.
@@JayEmmOnCars Thanks and yeah that was why I was thinking a 987.2 over the 981 - as the 991.1 didn't exactly get praised for it's steering and I assumed they'd be the same in that regard. Cheers
This is a great review thanks, of a car that anyone looking for a practical and pretty high performing sports car should look at. You mention the 987 several times and there is only a fairly small price gap now between a late model (2010-2012) low milage (35K-45K) 987.2 S and a slightly higher milage 2013/14 981 S. Would be great to see a follow-up review of a 987.2 and then an honest comparison between them. Styling will always be subjective and I agree with you that the 987.2 has a very cool shape, especially with spyder wheels and a good colour (white, dark grey esp.) But how about other more measurable differences; steering, chassis, performance, PDK changes between models etc. If you ever have time for this it would be a very interesting comparison. Thanks for all the great content you managed to keep pumping out during lockdown.
It all boils down to money , in the idea world if I could afford it my 2 cars around the 30k mark would be a 3.4 981 boxster or cayman or a 997.2 , but for under half the price you can get a 987.2 3.4 boxster , the boxster are a few grand cheaper than the 987.2 cayman but you still get that lovely 3.4 9a1 dfi engine as used in the cayman 981 3.4 ... on a bit of a budget and want a reliable bargain Porsche ? Get the 987.2 3.4 for what you get they really great you can’t go wrong bang for buck as a great toy to have in the garage ...
I think the Cayman is an outstanding car; my complaint is why Porsche share's the same interior between it and and the 911? I understand economy of scale for profit, but these are different platforms and think there should be boundaries. That would create a stronger brand for each platform since each would maintain their own identity...my 02.
Got a manual 987 Boxster here in California, and been tempted to switch to a 981 since I'm 6'5 and have to drive with my shoes off for the extra legroom (the 981 has a little more space!) - but the electric steering is a big downgrade from the hydraulic rack in the 987 in terms of feel. I think the 981 is the better daily, and the interior is far better, but the 987 is a more raw and involving weekend car. Didn't you promise a review of a 981 Boxster GTS at some point?
@@aguynamedben none - just check you're comfortable driving it (remove shoes for more legroom!). I found it cramped for the first 5 minutes each time, then had too much fun to notice. Now in an R53 Mini JCW which fits better but doesn't flow down a road the same way. The Boxster flat 6 engine noise is intoxicating too.
6:50 Doesn't Porsche still make a 6 cylinder Cayman or Boxster? Isn't it called the Cayman GT4.. I should have fact checked before I started writing.. damn..
Yes there is a Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spider, although the last one was very hard to get a hold of. There is currently no "regular" six cylinder Cayman/Boxster. They are talking about bringing one back however
I'd like to point out that the car sounds much much better in real life. For whatever reason the mic here doesn't seem to be capturing as much of the pitch climb. The engine and exhaust note does climb to a 3rd pitch which is a pretty high pitch, and sounds like a baby Ferrari 458
Believe me it was not as dramatic a maneouvre as it may seem. I'm very wary of other road users, but it's a greater danger to dawdle past than move swiftly
Imo 981 is a better car than 997. Sounds better, used less, looks notably more modern, much much better interior and steering wheel (but with less feedback) Unless you really really care about hydraulic steering and rear engine weight, then 981 beats out 997 by far. But of course. If you want more feedback on steering (albeit on a worse steering wheel but that could be changed) and rear weight fun, then 997 is the go to. I'd argue 991 and onwards had lost a huge chunk of its rear weight characteristics although still blatantly obvious when u first get into the car I suppose.
I have heard of people saying the cayman is the best porsche you can get due to its size and handling. You can pick up a 2014 cayman from around £30k which I think is a bargain. People will think your rich 😂
Hey mate, any advice, tossing up between around a 2015 model of either Cayman 981 S, Jag F Type R, or the Lexus LC 500, all similar priced with around 40,000 miles on it, the Cayman sounds like the answer, except the other two seem to have an amazing v8 roar and luxury inside? Will be test driving then soon, just started looking
I have hard time liking this review: failed to mention that it's first really modern cayman failed to mention that it's last/newest 'affordable' 6cyl cayman interior is huuge step up from very ugly obsolete and cheap first gen its generally just way more modern car, with modern tech its waaaaaaaay more reliable and therefore cheaper to own that first gen its also more fuel efficient
the only sensible reason to get 987 is just if you couldn't get such high car credit to get 981, as theyre very expensive. But even with bigger monthly payments ownership cost will be similar since 981 won't break, where 987 will cost some a lot in maintenance and repairs. And its not from heard or read opinions, i did some homework about it since i plan to buy 981s
I love the 981, but for today’s standards they’re overwhelmingly underpowered. The 987’s had good power for their time. These fell behind quickly. Still an amazing drivers car if you have a nice tight winding road
@@johnauld0 considering I currently own a 987.1 cayman S with over 5k track miles, being almost decade older than the 981’s, and after test driving a 981S, they’re not worth the extra price.
@@willsull22 you were talking about “overwhelmingly underpowered” so my comment was based on that statement…I wasn’t talking about 987.1 and 981 comparisons
@@willsull22 so my point is this, Porsche being Porsche and the resources they have and obviously the endless amount of data regarding all the other sports cars around in the same year as the 981 S came out..why didn’t they just strap some turbos to it and make the power out put substantially more to compete with the rivals??…that’s the question you need to be asking…the car isn’t about the outright power..that’s not the point of the car So ‘underwhelming underpowered’ doesn’t really come on to it does it 🤷♂️
There's an article from Autohaus Hamilton in Australia about the IMS. google “Autohaus Hamilton Porsche IMS” The article lists all the models and engines (with engine numbers) that are affected. "The Porsche models that are prone to IMS failure and should be replaced are: All 986 Boxster models. - 987 Cayman & Boxster models up to engine number 61504715 - All 996 models (not including: GT and Turbo models) - 997 3.6ltr with M96/05 up to engine number 6950745" Before 2000 Porsche used a double row IMS Bearing which had a low failure rate, then they switched to a single row until 2005 - 2006 and this single row has had the most problems. After 2005 - 2006 Porsche stayed with the single row but increased it's size and strength and this bearing has had the least problems of all three types of bearings used from 1997 to 2008. The upgraded bearing in the 997 and 987 is unserviceable, meaning you can't reach it unless you strip the entire engine down. Some of the early production 2005 - 2006 987 and 997 might have the pre-upgraded bearing fitted, that's why the engine numbers in the Autohaus article might be helpful in determining which type of IMS bearing is installed.
The 981 is now synonymous with an infamous youtuber 😏
Tell us more?
@@paulzstrong2450 you the Feds?
@@juannumbaone9142 😂 Nah, lol, Just thought you might be talking about this dude on YT. No Link, so just dial it in , then view the comments. "BMW E39 5 Series Airbag Light Reset" ...An early one of around 9,000 uploads!!
Some interesting reading on just a few of the car forums.
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Warning Foxwell Scanner, Sports Maserati Forum
Beware iCarsoft, Mercedes Benz Owners Forum
iCarsoft Scanning Tool, Jaguar XE Forum
This dude perhaps!! lol
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I own a 981 cayman s manual and it is something else. Everytime I drive it, it's like the first time I ever drove it. Always puts a huge smile on my face.
Thats totally how I feel. I will wash it and, swear to god, just walka round at and look at it and marvel at how gorgeous it is for 1/2 hour.
how about the boxster 2015 year manual? does yours have rev matching?
Hey mate, any advice, tossing up between around a 2015 model of either Cayman 981 S, Jag F Type R, or the Lexus LC 500, all similar priced with around 40,000 miles on it, the Cayman sounds like the answer, except the other two seem to have an amazing v8 roar and luxury inside? Will be test driving then soon, just started looking
@user-xi2gb1fb6i can't really speak for the other two but I will tell you the cayman will corner better than both. I'll also say that since mine has the sports exhaust the sound is almost worth the price alone. Back when I was in the market, I was picking between this and a c7 corvette and although I love the v8 roar as well, I don't regret my decision one bit when it comes to sound. Plus insurance was cheaper on the porsche.
Thanks for your response, looks like the standard Cayman S doesn't come with a PSE? So I guess I'll try and find a used one with a PSE fitted already, I'm in Australia so I think it will be costly getting one installed here as these cars are pretty rare here. I currently have an Audi A7, was going for a used Audi RS7 again it's a V8 but now leaning toward this porsche after all the positive reviews and the value for $$ to own a high end car. Audi and BMW can get expensive with oil leaks and various electronic malfunctions which I have had to pay for for my A7, how is the Cayman 981 from a fault side of things?
718 spyder and gt4 are 6 cylinder. The 981 has to be one of the best cars ever. They will hold their value and be worth something in years to come.
Purchased a lovely 981 cayman GTS last month. Incredible car, and feel very lucky every time I drive it.
Sounds like we joined the GTS club at the same time. I adore mine. The sound is incredible.
is it worth the 10k over the s with the same engine?
@@Mrhappy33664 I personally like the exterior look to the GTS over the S. At the time of purchase there wasn't too many 981S that were too well specced up available. PSE sounds incredible on the GTS. Some say it is slightly different to older cayman S cars. I still have the car :)
@@Boogersncome yeah your right I’m gonna keep my eyes out for a gts too. I plan on keeping the car forever anyway
I had a 2015 Cayman. I loved it and I miss it. I might get another one soon. It feels like exactly my kind of car. It’s not too showy, it’s daily drivable and it’s a lot of fun. I think it’s one of the most beautiful car designs ever and the 718 was a step in the wrong direction not just for sound but also for style.
Likewise! I owned one for a year (5 years ago) 3 kids later I’m tempted to get another! Did you get yours???
@@udhisilva738 Just got a 981 Cayman S as part of my later-life (low-60's), accelerated plan to have cool cars - up to one different one per year. One month into ownership, and I dread the idea of ever letting go of this beautiful masterpiece of a sports car.
I own a 981S but i think the 718 has the more modern and better design (i especially like the rear part with the leds and the placement of the porsche letters, and the steering wheel design plus the LED headlights)
Great honest review as ever. I have a 981 (GTS) and it’s the most wonderful balanced drive. Less visceral and slower than a later model 911 but smaller and much more placeable and I’d argue on typical tight Southern UK roads. Scotland would be a different matter. Image continues to hold it back , perpetuated I think by folks who have never driven one. But the Porsche DNA is evident everywhere. Not so much a poor mans 911 as a thinking mans Porsche.
Nick Taylor I also have a 981 GTS... what’s not to love! The car is simply awesome.
I’m about to buy a 2014 Cayman S, is the upgrade worth it?
Amen. I drive back roads in the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills (Virginia, USA), and cannot think of a better automobile at any price that would be better - with one caveat. I'm in a 981 Cayman S, and kinda wish I had gotten the GTS. Next Spring will be a new year when I always get the itch ;)
@@SaintPablo. Did you do it? I just got the 2014 S and wondering if I should upgrade to the GTS. Hope you read this and respond -- I GOTTA KNOW!! ;)
@@BobC59 hehe ended up getting an N55 435i, test drove a 981 S and I don’t regret my decision. Figured I’d rather save up for a 911 4s or sell the 435 and get an RS4 and a Cayman GT4 for the weekend. (Currently undecided but will tell you which route I go down, probs about 6 months from pulling the trigger)
Just got a 2013 Boxster S. Having transitioned from a 987.1 Cayman S to this car, I can confidently say that the 981 series is truly one of the best driving experiences I’ve ever had, a high water mark for Porsche. I love it!
I am just thinking about the same change that you made. I have a 2007 cayman S with just 22k miles, looking at cayman s or Boxster s models (981) - can I ask what you found the main benefits are?
@@gbart2679 Main benefits of the 981 over the 987 are: updated interior, more responsive and overall better engine (seem to be bullet proof and no IMS worry), better brakes, great suspension (I have X73), better ride overall. The one thing the 987 does have over the 981 is the hydraulic steering, but the steering in the 981 is still very good.
I absolutely loved my 981 and miss it very much. However, my current 911 has the backseats and my kids love riding with daddy.
I’m a former 981 owner but I have 3 kids. Part of me wants a 981 again but you’ve just made me feel guilty lol!
The 981 holds its value really well
BSM I bought a 981 GTS a year ago for 67k ... can’t find one under 10k miles for under 75k her in the US
You lucky bastard. I bought one brand new for over 100 :( it's still holding around 80k ish for my spec but obviously dealers will give you some ridiculous low pricing and market value really doesn't reflect onto the real owners unfortunately
ZDY if you trade to a dealer you will get killed especially if it’s a t4 718
@@kylemartin6448 its a 981 GTS. they will still shred you and offer 60k even if u have below 10 to 15k miles in my area. THey just dont care.
ZDY 60 is not bad from a dealer considering they will sell it for approx 70
My 981 Boxster S has the X73 (sport) suspension and it’s FANTASTIC. Highly recommended if you are thinking about one of these wonderful machines!
My 981 Spyder has the X73 too, it’s much more comfortable than my 987S with Bilsteins.
I have the 981 Boxster S with pdk, sport chrono, padm, pasm and pse. Sounds amazing. Brilliant car.
thats what I have too. i LOVE it so much. mine is guards red, with 20" satin black carrera wheels. totally unique
I bought my 987.2 Cayman S PDK 9 months ago and I love it. I was really wanting the 981 but I picked up my car for about 15K (US) less than I would have had to spend on the 981. I prefer the looks of the 981, but my car seems magical at times. Sport Chrono is the real deal, especially on the track!
I can't decide which looks better, the 987.2 really has more character, looks more retro, and I think I prefer the less cluttered interior, but you can argue it either way.
How much you got your 987.2 pdk for? At what miles?
@@vincentv1790 I got it from a private individual for 32K @ 40,000 miles. That was a year and a half ago. I've put 15K miles since.
Best car I ever drove was a manual 2007, Cayman 987 S. An Incredible handling and well balanced ride; with the perfect amount of power. If you find a clean one in good condition buy it!!!👍🏻😊
After a LOT of research got myself a 987.2 Boxster S pretty recently and I have to say, it may well be the best sports car I've ever owned. And I've had a few.... I was also quite shocked how easy basic maintenance is, and by the quite reasonable insurance costs. Really, none of the used Boxster or Caymans can be beat right now for what you can get for pretty reasonable money.
Cayman always looked and felt more evisceral than the 911 as most people would agree Mid engine is superior to Rear engine if you only need a 2 seat sports car
981 GTS is simply an amazing car.. no need to compare it to a 911...It stands alone.
I love everything about my 2014 Boxster 981 S. Absolutely delightful in every way
Had a Cayman S
Grown up Exige S! Wonderful car
I owned a 987.2 S in 2018 and all I wanted was a 981 due to the shape. Yet, after selling the 987, I bought another 987.2 2.9 this year and I wouldn't change it for anything else. The shape in the last couple of years has become (to me at least) a modern classic. It's funny how over time the shape of a car can go from 'a bit last season' to 'wow, it's sooo nice.'
How are the running costs?
@@danparry834 much better than most people believe. I get 350 miles on a full tank (give or take depending on how I drive it) and it sails through MOT/services. I've had much cheaper cars that cost me a lot more money. Also, if I was to sell my Cayman today, it's worth at least 5K more than when I bought it.
@@petescott thank you for answering, sounds very reasonable!
Do you miss the power from the 987.2s? Also, does the 3.4 engine sound better and/or drastically different than the 2.9?
@@wongkey2 good question. Honestly, it's a tough comparison because my 987.2 2.9 now is such a better example (25,000 miles, immaculate) and I love the PDK + useable power. My Cayman S was a manual and I used to hate the super heavy clutch, I also lived in London so would constantly be using it. I'm sure it's all personal preference, all I would say is drive both and see which works for you.
Jayemm,...Great review here, you make a refreshing change from the gurning overblown child-like presentation styles of JC, RH, JM, VBH, JP and TN. I drive a Manual 08 model 987.1 S and it's the best car I've ever owned. It's covered 91K miles and coming up to 12yrs old but it looks and drives like a 3yr old 30K miler. I sometimes hanker for the kudos of owning a 911 but I know it won't give me any more pleasure and fun than my Cayman. Keep up the good work,...I've subscribed.😎
Thanks James. I always loved the 987.1
I have a 2014 981S, MT, PSE, PASM, Sport+, PTV, PDLS and I love driving the thing for any reason. Considered a 718S and I liked the increased torque but am sticking with the 981S for now.
Did u buy the 718 S? How does it compare?
@@Jay-xr3sb funny you should mention it, but I got a 718 GTS (4L motor). I pick her up in a few days. I had a 718 base and S loaner in the past. I like the torque but the motor sounds like a WRX and the shift points on a manual are very different due to the lower red-line. If I had to choose, I'd stay in the 981S.
@@dp2901 congrats on the gts 4.0, I took that for a test drive and it's fantastic, but well out of my budget. The Porsche rep was trying to sell me a build that someone had rejected, about £82k in brown!
Used with low miles they are £65k, but I've found a 981S for £33k, 2014 car with all options! I collect in a week.
I never got around to driving the 718 turbos, I don't think I will bother until I've had my fun with the 981
I own a pretty identical spec'd Cayman S, with PDK, Sports Exhaust etc and LOVE it!!! The sound is insane, this vid doesn't do the sound quite the justice it needs. Loved the video still
I have the 981 Boxster S with the same spec. Imagine the sound in a convertible. Pure Music
@@arrek6773 Bet it's lovely!!! I have the windows down most of the time! UK weather for me means a Cayman is more suitable :)
981 was the last great Cayman, F6 FTW
@Bruno Desrosiers sounds not as good with opf
@@sniperBOBAH its not sound thats issue, its his price tag. it just doesn't make sense on the market, since its already in 911 price range. Nobody will buy them. Mark my words. I know I wouldn't if I could afford even base 991.2.
@@Angry-Lynx I would if it would sound at least like 981 S 😉
Had a 981 Boxster S and it was a fantastic car. Nice review!
I have a 2015 981 Cayman S and it is a car I'd like to keep a lot longer. I've owned a 2017 991 and I honestly like my Cayman S a little better. It has always bothered me a bit when I hear the term "poor man's Porsche". My 981 in 2015 cost $86k (hardly a poor man's car). I definitely prefer my 981 to the 718 and I've driven both the 718 Cayman and Boxster. They are quicker but I have a set of aftermarket headers paired with my Porsche Sport Exhaust and it is glorious not all farty like a 718. A GT3 does not sound much better.
BTW, I am also a former Lotus owner. I once owned an 89 Esprit SE, then a 95 Esprit S4S and also a 1970 Europa S2. The Europa was modified with what was known as the Gordini engine and a couple of side draught Webers. Out of all of them the S4S was kinda like a starship for the day but I kept the Europa the longest because it was just so fun to drive on and off the track. I kept it until 2006 and wish I still owned it.
'17 991? Thats like double price of 981 😁 Different galaxy market
@@Angry-Lynx Actually, not. My 981 Cayman S was $87k.
Hey mate, any advice, tossing up between around a 2015 model of either Cayman 981 S, Jag F Type R, or the Lexus LC 500, all similar priced with around 40,000 miles on it, the Cayman sounds like the answer, except the other two seem to have an amazing v8 roar and luxury inside? Will be test driving then soon, just started looking
Lookswise I would take this over the older Cayman - tauter shape especially at rear.
I love this guy's reviews...
Excellent review on an excellent car!
Just wish it could carry a spare! (actually the wheel you take off when you put a space saver spare on!)
Keep it up - when’s your Top Gear interview?
Got myself a ‘14 S. Sport Seats, Sport Exhaust, Sport Suspension (non adaptive), with the 6 speed. It’s brilliant, it’s fast enough to have fun, handles exceptionally well, and is big enough to hold a passenger and things. I even got 32mpg on a 200 mile highway stint! Every drive is an occasion, and I’ve actually grown to appreciate the gearing, it really gives some satisfaction to getting to redline. Though, were it my choice, I’d definitely shorten it. 6th I actually find to be a bit short given 2nd maxes out at 81 mph
Love and not selling my 981 GT4
Personally, I drive a 987 Cayman S quite often with a manual box, I feel like the base model might just give you a bit more fun on the road. On the track sure, but with the S you never really get to use most of what it has to offer. Torque is great, but I'd really like to wring it out a bit and the gear ratios really inhibit that as well - you're hitting over any sensible national limit at the top of 2nd gear which is a bit ridiculous
thats bs, with such weak NA engine you want all the power you can get and then mod intake and exhaust + tune to get everything out of it. Second part I agree fully.
I was lucky enough to own a 981 Cayman GTS for a couple of years, but the sensations (steering, acceleration and worst of all, suspension) were so woolly compared to my 987.2 Boxster S that I sold it and got a Cayman 987.2 S Black Edition. It's exactly what I was looking for!
Hydraulic steering wheel vs Electric
@@blademanx Yes, but also shorter gear ratios, predictable (passive) suspension and better ergonomics.
So hard to find a 987.2 nowadays. Price also fluctuates a lot due to scarcity...
I'd go for a manual facelift 987 to keep the hydraulic steering
Had a 987 Cayman S. Sold if after three months. couldn't get on with the bone jarring ride (19's) driver seat back rest touched the bulkhead and squeaked all the time. Clutch bite point was very high and the brakes feel wooden. Now in a M240i and love it.
you can get Porsche's x-73 suspension kit!
I’ve had two 981 Cayman S cars and while they were incredibly great handling cars, I felt they were quite underpowered. I have ordered the new GTS 4.0 Cayman so am hoping the extra horsepower and increased torque will really make it the perfect drivers’ car!
4 pot?
I come from a 911. I love my 981 S more. Sorry 😏
me too!
The Cayman is a very tempting proposition, more practical and just as quick as a 911 and cheaper which always helps lol
I have a 911 and a 981 Boxster S (same engine as the Cayman) and the Boxster isnt as quick as the 911. It's quick enough, but the 911 is still king for me.
@@MrElnuno I agree, the 911 is king, its been my dream car since childhood. I just think that day to day regular driving I probably wouldn't notice much difference, giving it the beans then I definitely don't doubt I would.....oh would I notice!!
@@MrElnuno I have 2014 981 Cayman S. PDK, Sports Chrono, after market sports exhaust... Tweaked ecu to 364hp, 420Nm. 0-100km/h 3.89sec.. Awesome drive, 911 performance in a mid-engined marvel. Won't sell this baby!
Never mind the flaws with the 981 cayman what a lovely shoot location shame you didn't do any drone footage
I hate drones
@@JayEmmOnCars Me too. You go for a quiet walk in the countryside, up a hill or something and someone's ruining the peace with their drone.
What flaws?
Not having driven one I have to go by the judgment of others, but the manual is apparently even longer geared than the PDK, and whilst it’s a slick box, you could probably drive a b-road and never really leave 2nd.
These cars drive very differently depending on spec, an X73 car is very different to the base suspension set up.
Very true. I found exactly that in a test drive back in the day, comparing brand new 981s to each other. I liked the X73 much better than the PASM or regular non-PASM suspension. Its the difference between loving the car and not wanting the car.
My PDK 981s was a great all-rounder. The problem for me was that the combination of the gearing (even with PDK) the torque curve and the chassis means the car only really comes alive at license losing speeds. The manual has significantly higher gearing than PDK - 84vs70 in 2nd 115vs100 in third. It's an excellent manual box - but most of the gears are redundant too much of the time
I'm in the market for a 981 at the moment and have to agree. I was looking at manuals because I love to row through the gears and heel n toe as it's a sports car but the gear ratios have steered me towards the Pdk (which is still very long geared!)
It hasn't detracted from the search too much mind, they're superb cars, hard to fault!
im thinking about buying a used 2015 gated boxster.... or 2013 if i can find a similar manual. thoughts?
Correction now in 2020 the 4.0L flat six cylinders is back in the 718.
Great video 👍🏻 Thanks for sharing
It is nice and it drives like a dream 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Nice review! That doesn’t sound like the sports exhaust though. It’s much louder and screams. Sounds like the standard exhaust.
Is the standard switchable?
981OEM sports exhausts don’t always shout &scream, nor do they all pop and crackle very well on the overrun. Mine certainly didn’t live up to expectations and i felt it was a total waste of money. Rest of the car was great.
JayEmm on Cars I’m not certain. The sports exhaust has a button with an exhaust symbol on. And with the standard exhaust you shouldn’t have the button. To me that sounds very muffled compared to the pse.
This is a Porsche sports exhaust
th-cam.com/video/SnHBg-AIiEc/w-d-xo.html
@@Jonnym96 the owner was not driving hard on the drive bys
I feel bad but..........I just wanted to see how Jay fits into the 981👍
Easily. Watch also my video on "fat guy gets into Elise" or Caterham 420R to be similarly amazed
@@JayEmmOnCars
You did well,Iam 6 ft 5" and 17 stone,and I wasn't able to get comfy in one.☹️
Porsche Cayman is the best option the Ur - Cayman 987 the last analog Porsche base engine or the 981 that are Porsche’s real sports cars not the 911 anymore it is small best design mid engine price reasonable and these cars will be future classics not the 911’s sorry but that’s how it is😉
where were you driving this time? Looked pretty nice. Caymans & Boxsters continue to get better, except for the engine note. The Taycan looks like it's most likely to be the new favourite Porsche, except for that price!!!
North of Glasgow
Aren't you hosting Top Gear Yet :) Great Vid as usual. Thx J
Have owned five 911s before buying my 981 seven years ago......just can't bear to part with it!
Lennoxtown never looked so good 😁
better than an evora NA 2011?
Why did you say the gearbox is the "wrong way round"? (3:00)
The lever is set for push forward to change up, pull to change down
@@JayEmmOnCars Ah, the lever! Thanks for the reply. Love the content by the way. Keep it coming.
Hi James, I was speaking to a Porsche Representative here in Australia a few months ago, and he basically assured me that the next generation of Boxster/Cayman would be reverting to a 6 cylinder. I assume turbo-charged.
MrElnuno. Really? I read by 2022 the Boxster and Cayman will both have hybrid electric engines.
Electric or Hybrid
Is that 2.7 or 3.4 ?
Why is there someone driving on the left seat 💺 ??????
PDK for me. Manual meh been there done that.
Great vid.
Beautiful care
Where you got it not quite right is the Cayman is not less than 911. Money being no object, I’ll take Cayman experience every day.
Great video as always, but question: which would you buy the 987 or the 981?
I'd probably have a 987.
@@JayEmmOnCars Cheers!
@@JayEmmOnCars what draws you more to the 987?
@@garywoods204 looks nicer, steers better
What do you think of the steering feel on the 981 given its change to electric PAS - compared to the 987? I think the steering is possibly the only compelling reason (on paper that is) to consider the 987? Cheers.
It's pretty good tbh, better than the 991.1
@@JayEmmOnCars Thanks and yeah that was why I was thinking a 987.2 over the 981 - as the 991.1 didn't exactly get praised for it's steering and I assumed they'd be the same in that regard. Cheers
Still waiting for you to take my 987 cayman s out!!
This is a great review thanks, of a car that anyone looking for a practical and pretty high performing sports car should look at. You mention the 987 several times and there is only a fairly small price gap now between a late model (2010-2012) low milage (35K-45K) 987.2 S and a slightly higher milage 2013/14 981 S. Would be great to see a follow-up review of a 987.2 and then an honest comparison between them. Styling will always be subjective and I agree with you that the 987.2 has a very cool shape, especially with spyder wheels and a good colour (white, dark grey esp.) But how about other more measurable differences; steering, chassis, performance, PDK changes between models etc. If you ever have time for this it would be a very interesting comparison. Thanks for all the great content you managed to keep pumping out during lockdown.
Yes.. I agree.. That would be a useful comparison
It all boils down to money , in the idea world if I could afford it my 2 cars around the 30k mark would be a 3.4 981 boxster or cayman or a 997.2 , but for under half the price you can get a 987.2 3.4 boxster , the boxster are a few grand cheaper than the 987.2 cayman but you still get that lovely 3.4 9a1 dfi engine as used in the cayman 981 3.4 ... on a bit of a budget and want a reliable bargain Porsche ? Get the 987.2 3.4 for what you get they really great you can’t go wrong bang for buck as a great toy to have in the garage ...
The 718 is available with a 4.0 flat 6, is it ?
Yes, except no.
@@dash3dot Only the convertible ?
Two-thirds of it is a 991. They share the same parts, chassis, etc.
I think the Cayman is an outstanding car; my complaint is why Porsche share's the same interior between it and and the 911? I understand economy of scale for profit, but these are different platforms and think there should be boundaries. That would create a stronger brand for each platform since each would maintain their own identity...my 02.
Porsche make huge profit on the 911, they just don't want to give it up. The same interior is basically used in the Cayenne and Macan and Panamera too
Got a manual 987 Boxster here in California, and been tempted to switch to a 981 since I'm 6'5 and have to drive with my shoes off for the extra legroom (the 981 has a little more space!) - but the electric steering is a big downgrade from the hydraulic rack in the 987 in terms of feel. I think the 981 is the better daily, and the interior is far better, but the 987 is a more raw and involving weekend car. Didn't you promise a review of a 981 Boxster GTS at some point?
Dude I’m 6’5” and about to buy a 987. Any regrets or things you would have done differently looking back?
@@aguynamedben none - just check you're comfortable driving it (remove shoes for more legroom!). I found it cramped for the first 5 minutes each time, then had too much fun to notice. Now in an R53 Mini JCW which fits better but doesn't flow down a road the same way. The Boxster flat 6 engine noise is intoxicating too.
Sport chrono pack solves the suspension question with stiffer setting option!
Never understood the model numbers to be honest they are all over the place
There is almost no logic
6:50 Doesn't Porsche still make a 6 cylinder Cayman or Boxster? Isn't it called the Cayman GT4.. I should have fact checked before I started writing.. damn..
Yes there is a Cayman GT4 and Boxster Spider, although the last one was very hard to get a hold of. There is currently no "regular" six cylinder Cayman/Boxster. They are talking about bringing one back however
981 is real sports car, 911 is just tourer because of RR
looks-wise i like the 2009-2012 version the best. 2013 onward was a step backward, IMO. the front, rear, side and roof. four swings.... four misses.
718 2.5T or older 3.4 cayman, please anyone who got knowledge explain why go for one or another model
Faster = 718, better sound and more exciting engine, 3.4
PASM would make it sexy-stiff. Love our 987 boxster S 6spd with PASM!
Nothing against the 911, but the 981 Cayman is the best Porsche Sports car.
Got my 987.2 Cayman S and don’t need back seats
th-cam.com/video/MTmEshD3Dc4/w-d-xo.html
So Jay, what's a better car and more fun to drive, evora or Cayman?
Better car, Cayman. More fun, Evora.
im gonna be the nob that writes first.. and now watch the video :)
And just like that Porsche stick a 4.0 6 cylinder in the new 718 GTS
I'd like to point out that the car sounds much much better in real life. For whatever reason the mic here doesn't seem to be capturing as much of the pitch climb. The engine and exhaust note does climb to a 3rd pitch which is a pretty high pitch, and sounds like a baby Ferrari 458
That will be the nature of how it is being driven in the drive bys
It is a 911. It's actually a 911 RSR.
981 Cayman GTS maybe
God I need money NOW!!!
Good video but did you really have to tear past the cyclist?
Believe me it was not as dramatic a maneouvre as it may seem. I'm very wary of other road users, but it's a greater danger to dawdle past than move swiftly
The price for a good 981 is still in 997 territory
Imo 981 is a better car than 997.
Sounds better, used less, looks notably more modern, much much better interior and steering wheel (but with less feedback) Unless you really really care about hydraulic steering and rear engine weight, then 981 beats out 997 by far. But of course. If you want more feedback on steering (albeit on a worse steering wheel but that could be changed) and rear weight fun, then 997 is the go to. I'd argue 991 and onwards had lost a huge chunk of its rear weight characteristics although still blatantly obvious when u first get into the car I suppose.
Truthfully if I ever was in the market for a Porsche. I would have a Cayman over a 911.
I know am weird 🤦♀️
Not at all. The 981 is clearly a better car.
I have heard of people saying the cayman is the best porsche you can get due to its size and handling. You can pick up a 2014 cayman from around £30k which I think is a bargain. People will think your rich 😂
Just too expensive compared to the previous generation Boxters IMO.
981 S or M2 (2014 vs 2017)
DD driver M2. Toy weekend 981S
Yep as above
Beg to differ Track use with M2, DD would be M235 or M240 with the ZF as the dual clutch could be jerky sometimes...
They’re great to drive but the looks leave me cold
Same here. Really underwhelming, especially the front end.
This or 987.2 R
I want to get a 911 but I don’t want to get rid of my 981 Cayman S.
Hey mate, any advice, tossing up between around a 2015 model of either Cayman 981 S, Jag F Type R, or the Lexus LC 500, all similar priced with around 40,000 miles on it, the Cayman sounds like the answer, except the other two seem to have an amazing v8 roar and luxury inside? Will be test driving then soon, just started looking
I have hard time liking this review:
failed to mention that it's first really modern cayman
failed to mention that it's last/newest 'affordable' 6cyl cayman
interior is huuge step up from very ugly obsolete and cheap first gen
its generally just way more modern car, with modern tech
its waaaaaaaay more reliable and therefore cheaper to own that first gen
its also more fuel efficient
the only sensible reason to get 987 is just if you couldn't get such high car credit to get 981, as theyre very expensive.
But even with bigger monthly payments ownership cost will be similar since 981 won't break, where 987 will cost some a lot in maintenance and repairs.
And its not from heard or read opinions, i did some homework about it since i plan to buy 981s
@@danielpope3579 thats fookin crazy man.
I can forget getting porsche thanks to all this prices craziness
Id never pay more than 30k for first gen cayman, its just not worth it imo. The prices are currently extremely inflated due to demand
I love the 981, but for today’s standards they’re overwhelmingly underpowered. The 987’s had good power for their time. These fell behind quickly. Still an amazing drivers car if you have a nice tight winding road
You’re missing the point if it’s engine power you’re concerned about 🙄
@@johnauld0 considering I currently own a 987.1 cayman S with over 5k track miles, being almost decade older than the 981’s, and after test driving a 981S, they’re not worth the extra price.
@@willsull22 you were talking about “overwhelmingly underpowered” so my comment was based on that statement…I wasn’t talking about 987.1 and 981 comparisons
@@johnauld0 yes for what it is, still underpowered. But like I said originally, my last sentence. Amazing drivers cars.
@@willsull22 so my point is this, Porsche being Porsche and the resources they have and obviously the endless amount of data regarding all the other sports cars around in the same year as the 981 S came out..why didn’t they just strap some turbos to it and make the power out put substantially more to compete with the rivals??…that’s the question you need to be asking…the car isn’t about the outright power..that’s not the point of the car
So ‘underwhelming underpowered’ doesn’t really come on to it does it 🤷♂️
There's an article from Autohaus Hamilton in Australia about the IMS. google “Autohaus Hamilton Porsche IMS” The article lists all the models and engines (with engine numbers) that are affected. "The Porsche models that are prone to IMS failure and should be replaced are: All 986 Boxster models. - 987 Cayman & Boxster models up to engine number 61504715 - All 996 models (not including: GT and Turbo models) - 997 3.6ltr with M96/05 up to engine number 6950745" Before 2000 Porsche used a double row IMS Bearing which had a low failure rate, then they switched to a single row until 2005 - 2006 and this single row has had the most problems. After 2005 - 2006 Porsche stayed with the single row but increased it's size and strength and this bearing has had the least problems of all three types of bearings used from 1997 to 2008. The upgraded bearing in the 997 and 987 is unserviceable, meaning you can't reach it unless you strip the entire engine down. Some of the early production 2005 - 2006 987 and 997 might have the pre-upgraded bearing fitted, that's why the engine numbers in the Autohaus article might be helpful in determining which type of IMS bearing is installed.
The base Cayman engine sounds better. Fight me.
Soft side? No such thing for road use. Especially our roads... Give it air ride for me! I don't suppose that'll happen. ;-)