Great video 🤓!!! Last February 2023, I acquired my new 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 which has the 4L NA flat six cylinder engine (same unit as a GT4) and a PDK gearbox. Power output (394 bhp) and torque (317 lb-ft) are a nice match to this car's sensible curb weight (~3200 lbs). The color is Gentian Blue metallic with a black/chalk all-leather interior and silver wheel rims. It's definitely an entertaining driver's car! So far, I've only done 452 miles but hopefully a lot more this coming Summer! The PDK is also a lot of fun (it's definitely quick) 🤓 All the best and thanks again from Colorado! "Porsche...There is No Substitute!!!"
Great review , I just got my 23’ Cayman 718 GTS 4.0 in December. Sadly it went right into storage as it’s a very salty winter here in New York. I got the manual transmission, GTS package, and turbo rims. Metallic Black. This car isn’t going anywhere. To be able to get this incredible Flat 6 4 liter in a mid- engine package, with a manual 6 speed for around 105 K is just a dream. Future classic to be sure. Once we are surrounded by EV,s we’ll be able to look back at the 718 GTS 4.0 and smile.
Great review Brian. I have a manual GTS 4.0 which I drive here in the UK. My advice is don't go mad on the options just those that you REALLY want..... colours are always a subjective subject ;-) ..... this 4.0 flat 6 is probably the last of its kind plus you get all of the mechanical upgrades to cover pretty much all road conditions. At this price point it makes perfect sense as a regular / trips road car..... if you want drama or are seriously thinking of tracking it I'd go GT4 for the aero, suspension and engine upgrades plus sticky rubber.
@@MW-gi1tr thank you.. I'm debating trading in my c8 Vette as part of the deal or holding on to the Vette. The vette is awesome, but it doesn't move me. There is nothing visceral. I've only driven the base and s of the 718 and they are such a different car. I don't enjoy the 992 much except for the T model. Stripped down. Thanks for giving me some confidence in my decision.
The gears a really long. I have a manual m2, but my gts4.0 is coming in a pdk. If you are revving it out it is really a 2spd car on the street. I do understand why someone would want the manual. I test drove a gts4.0 boxster in a manual and it was delightful for the two pulls you get out of it (I think 2nd tops out at 80+mph in the manual)
@@jacebeleren429 Unfortunately, you only save around 5-7 mph with PDK, so you are still breaking most street laws in 2nd gear regardless of transmission. Might as well enjoy rowing the gears and having that added driver engagement, which is the essence of this car, and most people are not maxing revs on all the gears.
@@randomhawks3232 Nah I still have my M2 for that. Having a pdk allows my wife to drive it as well. Again, I understand why a manual is a great option.
the 2021 GTS/4.0 may become a collector's car. the reviews are spot on and I chose the the midnight blue metallic paint with PDK and I use the paddle shifters in sport plus mode often- amazing.
What a great review! There’s another guy, Joe Hutchinson, who reviewed the 2021 Boxster 718 GTS which was also enthusiastic and engaging. Will keep watching!
I'm picking mine up in June in Manual, Guards Red as well. I agonised over the choice between Carmine and Guards Red and concluded that Carmine looks better in sunshine and Guards looks better in overcast conditions. In England I thought that we get more overcast so Guards won out for me (plus its £1600 cheaper).
Great review! One minor correction: you can only get Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) on the 718 GT4 and Spyder models now. PCCB brakes were an option on the 2020 and early 2021 718s, but Porsche did away with the option just before the middle of the 2021 model year (October 2020 production). Unlike the 718 Spyder and GT4, the rest of the 718 lineup used a smaller, older-generation PCCB system which exceeded the legal limit for copper content post 2020.
@@pcsullog Not true - at least in the USA. I ordered my car in 2021, and it wasn't an option then, nor in 2022 which is what I actually received due to ordering delays. Google it, the info is out there. No PCCB on any Caymans except the GT4 and Spyder.
Brian can you please let me know the roads you were on in California? It looks to me like you were driving on a road called Ortega Highway near Lake Elsinore California. It looks familiar as I have a vacation property in that city. I'm planning on ordering a 2025 718 Cayman GTS this week, maybe the last year with a naturally aspirated ice engine without hybridization or full electric. 😰🤮 Going to substitute leather seats and steering wheel instead of the Race-Tex fabric as leather wears better and is much easier to clean and take care of. Going with classic GT Silver metallic with gold wheels and of course a proper manual transmission.
The first 356 prototype ("Porsche No. 1") was actually a 2 seat roadster with a mid-mounted flat-4 producing 40hp but only weighing 1,290lbs. The later versions only had the engine moved behind the rear axle to reduce costs and add two seats. Ferry Porsche even said ""I saw that if you had enough power in a small car, it is nicer to drive than if you have a big car which is also overpowered. And it is more fun." The 718 is the true Porsche in the line-up now.
Personally I still prefer the 981 cleaner lines. The Cayman is such a beautiful car from all angles including inside. Pictures and video don't really do it justice. It's a design that really grows on you if you're lucky enough to have one on your driveway. It's not initially striking like a Lambo or Ferrari but is so well proportioned it takes a little while to appreciate its subtle beauty.
@@BrianMakse Lol enabler you are :-) So the 981 fits our lifestyle well currently, but we only plan to keep it short term (riding the market up at the moment). It's not a DD and we use it for date nights/HPDE/autocross. Here's my thought process: 981 GTS prices are high and not worth the jump from what I have. 981 GT4 is awesome but maybe a little harsh/less exploitable on the street (where most of the driving is done). 718 GTS 4.0 sounds like an awesome dual purpose street/track car. Evora's are on our radar. Not as many options in the $60-80k price point as I'd like as so many car's have risen in value. We have four kids so family car is an Odyssey. Oh, and an E46 M3 we're about to sell.
@@nlxsteve Good stuff. So, I think that on track (and perhaps autocross of which I'm not much of a fan SHHH!), the GTS is a bit more approachable while the Evora is a little less forgiving for most drivers. The Evora is much more interesting because it's brimming with character, warts and all, and is significantly more rare. You can't go wrong either way. The Porsche has refinement and greater usable performance while the Lotus is intriguing.
Great review!! And there ain't nuttin wrong with old school! I recently sold my c6z06 thinking I was done with sports cars at 67. wrong.....that bug is gunna be with me till I'm dead I'm afraid and it's getting hard to find a car with a stick any more. This or the GT4 has me hot to go to my Porsche dealer next year and make yet one more foolish investment in a car...thanks for a terrific review...:)
Great review Brian. On the fence between GT4 and GTS 4.0. Its a replacement for my F80 M3, and will be filling duties of 3 days/week commute to office, weekend canyons, 3-4 track days/year. What is you opinion on GT4 vs GTS? I have driven both in manual, the NVH in the GT4 is considerably more than the GTS. I guess my question is how much of a GT4 the GTS is on the road?
Happy to help, Ian. In terms of lap times, that's primarily determined by the tire, not the rest of the bits. My guess is that car for car, they're maybe a second apart on a typical track on the same tire. However, you're not racing and chasing tenths of seconds, plus I'm not a fan of race cars on the road, so as formidable as the GT4, you probably don't want to go down that road, given how you're going to use it. The GTS 4.0 will still be thrilling on the track and significantly more enjoyable on the road.
@@BrianMakse Thanks Brian. So perhaps Cup2's in a 245/285 combo on the GTS could be a good idea? From the countless reviews I have seen, it seems that it is the front end feel that is what differs the most on the GT4, however as you indicate, this may only be apparent on a track, not the road? Given the GTS would likely be more settled on the road, it may even be quicker or more satisfying?
@@ianf2012 If you live in climate that's good for Cup2s, that would be pretty awesome, as long as you don't mind replacing them frequently. You're right, the steering is a little quicker in the GT4, which can make it more nervous for some people on the road (personally I prefer quick steering, but I'm an outlier). Coverning distance on open roads would be more enjoyable in the GTS IMO. Quicker depends on talent and courage!
If this GTS were available when I ordered my 718 Spyder I would have ordered it. I despise my manual roof and prefer the auto roof on this GTS convertible.
Excelent review Brian! My DD is a 2010 Cayman S PDK that I ordered in 2/2010. It has covered 126k happy miles so far. Incoming car is the GTS 4.0, I got the allocation yesterday!!! Shark blue/espresso, though Carmine red would be nice, too. BTW, PCCB is not available for the GTS 4.0.
GTS 4.0 - black, red or white (free), silver wheels (free), 6 speed manual (free, fun, resale value), natural brown leather package, standard PASM (free, raise 10mm for extra comfort), PCCB and PDLS+ lights (future proofing, seems no reliability issues nor weight gain issues) - maximum GT feel without adding cost, reliability issue/dated electronics (i.e. sound and infotainment system) or tacky stuff (carbon trim, colored seatbelts) GT4 - black, red or white (free), silver wheels (free), 6 speed manual (free, fun, resale value), full bucket seats (car becomes more valuable down the line, but can skip for aftermarket Recaro Podium), PCCB and PDLS+ lights
Thanks Brian. One of the complaints I heard on this (otherwise perfect) car is the steering is direct but numb. Is this your observation? The Evora GT has a ton of feedback (I've driven that but no the GTS/GT4). It's pretty clear you enjoyed driving this car a lot. Agreed on the color, this blue is a snooze fest for me personally.
Glad you enjoyed. I think the best way to characterize these things is to say that Cayman has perhaps slightly less steering feedback, but makes up for it in overall chassis feel.
@@BrianMakse love it. Goes to the top of my buy list thanks to you along with the upcoming IS500F, new GT86 and AWD Corolla GR, that they are going to bring over soon. I'll narrow down based on your reviews once you get em. Price no issue and I don't care what others think of prestige and cross shopping these. I want ultimate drivers car. If this is the same as the Boxster GTS from a feedback and feel I might lean that way.
That's simply not true. It will have less feedback than an Evora, sure, but it's not numb. Numb would be something like a BMW M2. The Caymans are perhaps in between a truly numb BMW and a high feedback rack like in the Evora.
great car,, bit goofy the gas pedal is attached from the bottom thou ,, that went out in the 80 s lol,, i dont even know how someone can drive with that set up
I’ve been watching 2021 GTS 4.0 videos for a while now. Wish I could find a GTS vs video… I think their was a GTS BMW something video… The chalk color is pretty cool..😎😎😎😎 Oh and all steering wheels should be suede
It is NOT a dry sumped motor. Nor is the GT4. Only the GT4RS has a true dry sump derived from racing. The other caymans have an "integrated dry sump" which is essentially a wetsump. There is no external oil reservoir, hence no dry sump.
As pointed out, the manual gearing isn't conducive to street driving. Second is good for 80mph and you're not maxing torque until you're at 5500 rpm. The PDK makes more sense.
I agree Brian. I drove a 718 Cayman with manual transmission, it was a 2 litre version. The manual was so,ooooo good. It had been a while since I drove one, with everything being DCT today. As you said , much more engaging and if you are wanting that weekend fun drivers car its gotta be the manual. Got my GTS 4.0 arriving in a few weeks. Its a manual of course in Black and with the Turbo wheels. Sold my Lambo LP560 to move to the GTS 4.0. Reasons, wife needed more luggage space and the lambo was just to hard riding for any serious road trip.
@@rossgodkin now you're talking! Manual LP560? I loved my test car, it was my first Lamborghini tester. I can appreciate that the Cayman has a little more luggage space and is definitely more comfortable. Congrats on the four litre!
I'm pretty sure every car generation thought new technological advancements like launch control were circus tricks. "Is that an automatic transmission? Humbug, that's a circus trick! I prefer to shift myself!" lmao.
Well, my racecars have automated gearboxes, so for road cars, I’ll take a manual. And PDK with launch control is a circus trick. Any circus monkey can do a perfect launch, which a lot of unskilled drivers are pleased with I’m sure.
@@BrianMakse Interesting pick Brian. If GT4, I might agree 981...but given this is the 1st time the Spyder is mechanically identical to the GT4 (ie. GT3 front end goodies) and you can uncork the engine with an exhaust...along with a 4L...and all the improvements...718 Spyder for me. Btw..great video/review!
@@randomhawks3232 the question is as a keeper. No doubt the 718 is a more advanced car. More powerful and better suspension and chassis. But those things will always be improved in every new generation. I guess The 981 has a more reliable engine (the 718 gt4 clubsport has the 3.8 engine not the new one)and its the same engine as the last 911 n/a engine. Including best sound. Besides the 981 was a more limited production than the new one. I guess that as a keeper the 981 will be better but no deny that the 718 spyder as maybe last n/a engine and gt parts will help in future as keeping prices high.
So sad their offering the GT4 with PDK now… I’ve heard the bottom end of that 4.0 is seriously stout and can take the rpms all day long. Awesome review! Really wanted to make a smart ass remark that you were sitting to close to the wheel 🤣🤣🤣
Ha ha! We’re working on a seating position episode, kinda like the heel and toe we did last year. If people don’t believe a 2X USA national champ and 20+ year driver coach on how to sit, maybe they’ll believe some other experts! The GT4 with PDK is a proper track weapon. To me, that’s where it makes sense.
Yeah, if you're going to ignore the massive 13 inches in length the car has ballooned to. It's currently the size of a 2012 Honda Civic sedan for heaven's sake. It's no longer a european sportscar now it ranks with the grotesque Dodges and Chevys of the world. Thank God for the Cayman, Audi TTRS, and Lotus.
“Base is ace”… with Miata, but not in the Cayman I guess? What if you don’t want to spend $100k, how do you feel about buying a base cayman or Boxster with a couple of options for maybe $70k not GTS for so much. Is the GTS with the six worth $30 more than the base?
If you want unnecessary tech, go for the P car....if you just get in and love driving, go for the Evora. Also, if you enjoy wrenching, go for the Lotus. It’s super user friendly to work on. Cars are very equally matched, it’s the owners that are different.
That's the first time I've seen a Gentian Blue with Platinum wheels and I'm blown away by the combination. That would be my spec for the Boxster version. Regarding transmission, I had a Boxster 4.0 for a day and the most disappointing aspect of the whole experience was the manual transmission. The clutch was too light, the gearchange imprecise and because of being placed so high up on the console, it was uncomfortable to insert the gearlever into the lower gears. I'm 5ft 11 , so the seat was pushed right back. I became so frustrated that I left the car in 3rd gear and the torque did the rest. What a pleasure it was to get back into my manual 2003 Carrera C4S and experience a great gear change. I guess that I'll have to wait for the PDK version to see if this car is enjoyable or not.
FYI, another U-tuber mentioned that her information was to shift at engine RPM~1600 for best results. My experience with a VW GTI (self-taught) was similar, doesn't take long to adapt to that.
I don’t know what how you drive a stick, but I’ve had a manual 996, 997S, 981S and now a 718 GTS 4.0. In my opinion, each version is a. improvement over the previous in terms of the quality of the manual transmission feel and performance. The 996 is a long throw and hardly ideally positioned for intensive track driving. The GTS 4.0, GT4 and 991.2 GT3 are as close to perfect as you can get….and that’s the consensus of my local PCA enthusiasts. Maybe you need to take a few HPDC classes?
@@kerunbindra4053 the porsche gts of course, its a sportscar where the m3/m4 is a sporty family car. The older m3s are more like trackcars but if you want a modern sportscar you'll need to get the Porsche...
@@BrianMakse No its a personal thing. Just didn't want a turbo unless it was in a diesel. And tunes, if I need faster, I'd buy a faster car that is reliable. I know people that have these "tunes" and they blew up. Not fun when it is your daily driver.
I don't think the manual is a good option in this car, not unless it is going to spend 90% of it's time on a track, the gearing is far too tall to have any fun on public roads, redline it in 2nd and you are well over legal speed limits. Pdk 4 me.
If you’re not an old fart and you slightly enjoy music, then for God’s sake order the Burmester. The Bose is shite- I have it in my Cayman S and it’s just naff.
Get it in a manual and carbon brakes? This isn't a GT4 and the manual has questionable gearing. Sounds like a review by a racer, for wanna-be racers stuck in traffic.
Brian, how engaging can the manual be? 85mph at the top of second gear, so you get 1 shift. Wow, so rewarding. Driving in the city you have a car with a 7k torque peak, so at 70 kph you'd be lugging the motor around 2k rpms. This is not rewarding, it's frustrating. Buy the base, it has lower more attainable limits for the streets, and is therefore more useable, and fun.
It all depends why and what you are buying the car for and how you are going to use it. If it is city driving I can agree it should definitely be the PDK. However if it more for road trips on B or secondly roads and a weekend car , which you may track now and then, Then the manual is the way to go. It would be more enjoyable for a driver's driver.
Thats an ridiculous comment from someone I bet has never driven the GTS 4.0 with a manual. You don’t need to hit redline in every gear to enjoy the precise engagement and visceral feel.. And in case you haven’t compared, the gearing of the automatic PDK is nominally different than the manual. It redlines at nearly the same speeds in 1,2,3 gears.
The ceramic brakes are NOT available on the GTS, the brakes are larger than the 718 S model. I've built one for myself a number of times and the brakes are steel only! Last year they were available on the 718 GTS 4-cylinder, can not understand why they deleted that option???
@@BrianMakse Agreed! I was glad to get one before they moved to the newer 911 interiors. Manual, naturally aspirated engine with a 4L...analog driver's car....give me simple dials and push buttons and keep the touch screens for the Teslas 😂
porsche content again! amazing! loved the sound clips at the beginning of the video. super high quality
What a beautiful car. This spec but with a manual would be my dream daily canyon ripper.
I wasn’t attracted to 718s, but THIS review has changed that!
Glad you enjoyed. Hope you stick around.
Yeah, no one is really attracted to a $$$$ 4-cylinder
Great video 🤓!!! Last February 2023, I acquired my new 718 Cayman GTS 4.0 which has the 4L NA flat six cylinder engine (same unit as a GT4) and a PDK gearbox. Power output (394 bhp) and torque (317 lb-ft) are a nice match to this car's sensible curb weight (~3200 lbs). The color is Gentian Blue metallic with a black/chalk all-leather interior and silver wheel rims. It's definitely an entertaining driver's car!
So far, I've only done 452 miles but hopefully a lot more this coming Summer! The PDK is also a lot of fun (it's definitely quick) 🤓
All the best and thanks again from Colorado!
"Porsche...There is No Substitute!!!"
Great car! Congrats! And you've got some great roads to enjoy out there!
Great review , I just got my 23’ Cayman 718 GTS 4.0 in December. Sadly it went right into storage as it’s a very salty winter here in New York. I got the manual transmission, GTS package, and turbo rims. Metallic Black. This car isn’t going anywhere. To be able to get this incredible Flat 6 4 liter in a mid- engine package, with a manual 6 speed for around 105 K is just a dream. Future classic to be sure. Once we are surrounded by EV,s we’ll be able to look back at the 718 GTS 4.0 and smile.
Great choice!
Great review Brian. I have a manual GTS 4.0 which I drive here in the UK. My advice is don't go mad on the options just those that you REALLY want..... colours are always a subjective subject ;-) ..... this 4.0 flat 6 is probably the last of its kind plus you get all of the mechanical upgrades to cover pretty much all road conditions. At this price point it makes perfect sense as a regular / trips road car..... if you want drama or are seriously thinking of tracking it I'd go GT4 for the aero, suspension and engine upgrades plus sticky rubber.
I was in UK a month ago. So many speed traps and so overcrowded roads. I did not get the point to own sport car there!
Can’t believe I haven’t seen your content until now. Excellent stuff.
Welcome aboard! Hope you stick around and tell your friend!
Thanks!
Thanks, Chris!
Ordered mine with a manual as well as Gentian Blue!!!! Interior is Black/Bordeaux red. Gold wheels. Take delivery in Nov 23
That's an awesome spec! I go back and fourth building it with gold & black wheels online!
How do you like it? I'm locking in my order tomorrow
i absolutely love it. really feels special. we also have a 992 C2S. something about the 4.0 with a manual transmission. seriously a special car.
@@MW-gi1tr thank you.. I'm debating trading in my c8 Vette as part of the deal or holding on to the Vette. The vette is awesome, but it doesn't move me. There is nothing visceral. I've only driven the base and s of the 718 and they are such a different car. I don't enjoy the 992 much except for the T model. Stripped down. Thanks for giving me some confidence in my decision.
Terrific! Reasonable people can differ……I’d do that blue. Totally agree on the manual vs the pdk. Great review!
"...is screaming for the manual" - says it all.
Another great review!
The gears a really long. I have a manual m2, but my gts4.0 is coming in a pdk. If you are revving it out it is really a 2spd car on the street. I do understand why someone would want the manual. I test drove a gts4.0 boxster in a manual and it was delightful for the two pulls you get out of it (I think 2nd tops out at 80+mph in the manual)
@@jacebeleren429 Unfortunately, you only save around 5-7 mph with PDK, so you are still breaking most street laws in 2nd gear regardless of transmission. Might as well enjoy rowing the gears and having that added driver engagement, which is the essence of this car, and most people are not maxing revs on all the gears.
@@randomhawks3232 Nah I still have my M2 for that. Having a pdk allows my wife to drive it as well. Again, I understand why a manual is a great option.
Great vid Brain - super informative - glad I found your channel - cheers from Oz
Thanks, Zig! I'm also a contributor to MOTOR and whichcar.com.au down there!
the 2021 GTS/4.0 may become a collector's car. the reviews are spot on and I chose the the midnight blue metallic paint with PDK and I use the paddle shifters in sport plus mode often- amazing.
What a great review! There’s another guy, Joe Hutchinson, who reviewed the 2021 Boxster 718 GTS which was also enthusiastic and engaging. Will keep watching!
This is a delightful car!
Carmine Red and a Manual are a must I agree, currently number 2 on the list here in Pa….nice review.
Right on!
Excellent review. Picking mine up in the South East of England this week after a long wait. Manual, Guards Red (not Carmine 😁)
Guards is a bold, retro choice! Enjoy!
I'm picking mine up in June in Manual, Guards Red as well. I agonised over the choice between Carmine and Guards Red and concluded that Carmine looks better in sunshine and Guards looks better in overcast conditions. In England I thought that we get more overcast so Guards won out for me (plus its £1600 cheaper).
Great review! One minor correction: you can only get Porsche Ceramic Composite Brakes (PCCB) on the 718 GT4 and Spyder models now. PCCB brakes were an option on the 2020 and early 2021 718s, but Porsche did away with the option just before the middle of the 2021 model year (October 2020 production). Unlike the 718 Spyder and GT4, the rest of the 718 lineup used a smaller, older-generation PCCB system which exceeded the legal limit for copper content post 2020.
Glad you enjoyed. This is a level of nerd knowledge that has escaped even me!
@@pcsullog Not true - at least in the USA. I ordered my car in 2021, and it wasn't an option then, nor in 2022 which is what I actually received due to ordering delays. Google it, the info is out there. No PCCB on any Caymans except the GT4 and Spyder.
you can get it on the gts in sweden in 2024 as an option. @@stevelilley8408
Brian can you please let me know the roads you were on in California?
It looks to me like you were driving on a road called Ortega Highway near Lake Elsinore California.
It looks familiar as I have a vacation property in that city.
I'm planning on ordering a 2025 718 Cayman GTS this week, maybe the last year with a naturally aspirated ice engine without hybridization or full electric. 😰🤮
Going to substitute leather seats and steering wheel instead of the Race-Tex fabric as leather wears better and is much easier to clean and take care of.
Going with classic GT Silver metallic with gold wheels and of course a proper manual transmission.
The 718 is my favorite Porsche design right now. It just hits me in a different way from the 911.
It’s tidy!
The first 356 prototype ("Porsche No. 1") was actually a 2 seat roadster with a mid-mounted flat-4 producing 40hp but only weighing 1,290lbs. The later versions only had the engine moved behind the rear axle to reduce costs and add two seats. Ferry Porsche even said ""I saw that if you had enough power in a small car, it is nicer to drive than if you have a big car which is also overpowered. And it is more fun." The 718 is the true Porsche in the line-up now.
Personally I still prefer the 981 cleaner lines. The Cayman is such a beautiful car from all angles including inside. Pictures and video don't really do it justice. It's a design that really grows on you if you're lucky enough to have one on your driveway. It's not initially striking like a Lambo or Ferrari but is so well proportioned it takes a little while to appreciate its subtle beauty.
I ordered my GTS4.0 in python green with a manual transmission ;)
Bold choice! I love it!
Shark Blue is where it's at for me 🤫
@@garyw1971 that's also bold! So much better than silver, white, black...
“Inimitable” - Great word today!
Great car! Great video!
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!
Nice review earned a subscriber!!!
Thanks, Ricardo! Glad you enjoy our work!
Can you see the difference between a 981 gts and this new model or is the 6 flat nearly the same?
I have a c8 vette in trading in for the caymen gts... I just love visceral feel is the Porsche... The vette feels so big to me..
Tested this and the C8 on exactly the same roads.
Great review
Great review! 718 GTS 4.0 vs Evora GT. Which do you go for?
If it's either/or, it's this. If it depends on what else is in my garage, then I could go either way.
You’re not helping! I have a 981 Cayman S/6spd. Love the 3.4 and would love a 718 4.0. But the Evora GT is super intriguing.
@@nlxsteve I'm definitely here to help...or to be a terrible enabler. How are you going to use it? What else is in your garage?
@@BrianMakse Lol enabler you are :-) So the 981 fits our lifestyle well currently, but we only plan to keep it short term (riding the market up at the moment). It's not a DD and we use it for date nights/HPDE/autocross. Here's my thought process: 981 GTS prices are high and not worth the jump from what I have. 981 GT4 is awesome but maybe a little harsh/less exploitable on the street (where most of the driving is done). 718 GTS 4.0 sounds like an awesome dual purpose street/track car. Evora's are on our radar. Not as many options in the $60-80k price point as I'd like as so many car's have risen in value. We have four kids so family car is an Odyssey. Oh, and an E46 M3 we're about to sell.
@@nlxsteve Good stuff. So, I think that on track (and perhaps autocross of which I'm not much of a fan SHHH!), the GTS is a bit more approachable while the Evora is a little less forgiving for most drivers. The Evora is much more interesting because it's brimming with character, warts and all, and is significantly more rare. You can't go wrong either way. The Porsche has refinement and greater usable performance while the Lotus is intriguing.
Great video, thanks! Would love to get one of these someday!
Thanks for watching!
Hi Brian. Is the Cayman comfortable for a tall person (1.92m) as well as a daily driver?
Should be. Give one a try!
Great review!! And there ain't nuttin wrong with old school! I recently sold my c6z06 thinking I was done with sports cars at 67. wrong.....that bug is gunna be with me till I'm dead I'm afraid and it's getting hard to find a car with a stick any more. This or the GT4 has me hot to go to my Porsche dealer next year and make yet one more foolish investment in a car...thanks for a terrific review...:)
Glad you enjoyed that, Steve. And carry on, keep driving!
Gorgeous machine, OUTSTANDING presentation!
Mine's on order. Hopefully I actually get it.
Excellent review , Brian. Beautiful car.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great review Brian. On the fence between GT4 and GTS 4.0. Its a replacement for my F80 M3, and will be filling duties of 3 days/week commute to office, weekend canyons, 3-4 track days/year. What is you opinion on GT4 vs GTS? I have driven both in manual, the NVH in the GT4 is considerably more than the GTS. I guess my question is how much of a GT4 the GTS is on the road?
Happy to help, Ian. In terms of lap times, that's primarily determined by the tire, not the rest of the bits. My guess is that car for car, they're maybe a second apart on a typical track on the same tire. However, you're not racing and chasing tenths of seconds, plus I'm not a fan of race cars on the road, so as formidable as the GT4, you probably don't want to go down that road, given how you're going to use it. The GTS 4.0 will still be thrilling on the track and significantly more enjoyable on the road.
@@BrianMakse Thanks Brian. So perhaps Cup2's in a 245/285 combo on the GTS could be a good idea? From the countless reviews I have seen, it seems that it is the front end feel that is what differs the most on the GT4, however as you indicate, this may only be apparent on a track, not the road? Given the GTS would likely be more settled on the road, it may even be quicker or more satisfying?
@@ianf2012 If you live in climate that's good for Cup2s, that would be pretty awesome, as long as you don't mind replacing them frequently. You're right, the steering is a little quicker in the GT4, which can make it more nervous for some people on the road (personally I prefer quick steering, but I'm an outlier). Coverning distance on open roads would be more enjoyable in the GTS IMO. Quicker depends on talent and courage!
Was waiting for this one. Love it - bring on the manual! Great review!
Glad you liked it!
If this GTS were available when I ordered my 718 Spyder I would have ordered it. I despise my manual roof and prefer the auto roof on this GTS convertible.
Agreed, love the Spyder, but if you're moving the roof a lot, power is easier.
@@BrianMakse I had an 07 Boxster S which had a powered roof. It was a great, great car. My new one is good however the roof sucks badly. Cheers Brian.
Circus tricks will make you world famous
Great video!!!! Awesome car!!!
Did you measure the 0-60 mph time ?
I don’t believe the time on the porsche website.
If I don’t care about launch control, do you think I care about 0-60?
The numbers on their site are accurate, if a bit pessimistic.
Should be around 3.8 with pdk and launch control. But the GT4 has done it in around 3.5 tested so could be less than 3.8.
What's the difference between the 2020 and the 2021 cayman GTS 4.0
One year?
@@BrianMakse I guess I mean as far specs are they exactly the same
Excelent review Brian! My DD is a 2010 Cayman S PDK that I ordered in 2/2010. It has covered 126k happy miles so far. Incoming car is the GTS 4.0, I got the allocation yesterday!!! Shark blue/espresso, though Carmine red would be nice, too. BTW, PCCB is not available for the GTS 4.0.
PCCB is available for the GTS 4.0 in the UK. Would also assume elsewhere.
@@brianthegiant1 PCCB is not available in the US for the 718s. It is available in the UK like you said.
@@tamasszabo8824 we drive faster in the UK, so need the extra stopping power 😜
@@brianthegiant1 Well played :)
Random question, and not why I would buy this car, but is the Apple Carplay wireless?
Then, no. Now, probably.
I might be in the minority but I’m digging that blue lol
GTS 4.0 - black, red or white (free), silver wheels (free), 6 speed manual (free, fun, resale value), natural brown leather package, standard PASM (free, raise 10mm for extra comfort), PCCB and PDLS+ lights (future proofing, seems no reliability issues nor weight gain issues) - maximum GT feel without adding cost, reliability issue/dated electronics (i.e. sound and infotainment system) or tacky stuff (carbon trim, colored seatbelts)
GT4 - black, red or white (free), silver wheels (free), 6 speed manual (free, fun, resale value), full bucket seats (car becomes more valuable down the line, but can skip for aftermarket Recaro Podium), PCCB and PDLS+ lights
You should definitely do my next Porsche spec segment!
Thanks Brian. One of the complaints I heard on this (otherwise perfect) car is the steering is direct but numb. Is this your observation? The Evora GT has a ton of feedback (I've driven that but no the GTS/GT4). It's pretty clear you enjoyed driving this car a lot. Agreed on the color, this blue is a snooze fest for me personally.
Glad you enjoyed. I think the best way to characterize these things is to say that Cayman has perhaps slightly less steering feedback, but makes up for it in overall chassis feel.
@@BrianMakse love it. Goes to the top of my buy list thanks to you along with the upcoming IS500F, new GT86 and AWD Corolla GR, that they are going to bring over soon. I'll narrow down based on your reviews once you get em. Price no issue and I don't care what others think of prestige and cross shopping these. I want ultimate drivers car.
If this is the same as the Boxster GTS from a feedback and feel I might lean that way.
That's simply not true. It will have less feedback than an Evora, sure, but it's not numb. Numb would be something like a BMW M2. The Caymans are perhaps in between a truly numb BMW and a high feedback rack like in the Evora.
Agree on PCCB, but doubt about the manual trans, living in a mega city like Moscow one would want an automatic.
Yep, same deal where I live. Lots of traffic.
great car,, bit goofy the gas pedal is attached from the bottom thou ,, that went out in the 80 s lol,, i dont even know how someone can drive with that set up
If you don’t like how this throttle pedal is mounted, wait until you see a proper racing car!
@@BrianMakse ya i only like the pedals mounted from the top,,, too goofy from the bottom
I’ve been watching 2021 GTS 4.0 videos for a while now. Wish I could find a GTS vs video…
I think their was a GTS BMW something video…
The chalk color is pretty cool..😎😎😎😎
Oh and all steering wheels should be suede
Vs episodes aren't profitable for us.
It is NOT a dry sumped motor. Nor is the GT4. Only the GT4RS has a true dry sump derived from racing. The other caymans have an "integrated dry sump" which is essentially a wetsump. There is no external oil reservoir, hence no dry sump.
As pointed out, the manual gearing isn't conducive to street driving. Second is good for 80mph and you're not maxing torque until you're at 5500 rpm. The PDK makes more sense.
Nah.
I agree Brian. I drove a 718 Cayman with manual transmission, it was a 2 litre version. The manual was so,ooooo good. It had been a while since I drove one, with everything being DCT today. As you said , much more engaging and if you are wanting that weekend fun drivers car its gotta be the manual. Got my GTS 4.0 arriving in a few weeks. Its a manual of course in Black and with the Turbo wheels. Sold my Lambo LP560 to move to the GTS 4.0. Reasons, wife needed more luggage space and the lambo was just to hard riding for any serious road trip.
@@rossgodkin now you're talking! Manual LP560? I loved my test car, it was my first Lamborghini tester. I can appreciate that the Cayman has a little more luggage space and is definitely more comfortable. Congrats on the four litre!
I'm pretty sure every car generation thought new technological advancements like launch control were circus tricks. "Is that an automatic transmission? Humbug, that's a circus trick! I prefer to shift myself!" lmao.
Well, my racecars have automated gearboxes, so for road cars, I’ll take a manual.
And PDK with launch control is a circus trick. Any circus monkey can do a perfect launch, which a lot of unskilled drivers are pleased with I’m sure.
@@BrianMakse lmao
Whats your pick?. 718 spyder vs 981 spyder as a keeper I mean. Great review thanks for sharing your passion
Keeper? Oooooh...981 Spyder. Thanks for watching!
@@BrianMakse Interesting pick Brian. If GT4, I might agree 981...but given this is the 1st time the Spyder is mechanically identical to the GT4 (ie. GT3 front end goodies) and you can uncork the engine with an exhaust...along with a 4L...and all the improvements...718 Spyder for me. Btw..great video/review!
981 spyder more visceral and raw with $30k left over to get a Tesla commuter
@@randomhawks3232 the question is as a keeper.
No doubt the 718 is a more advanced car. More powerful and better suspension and chassis.
But those things will always be improved in every new generation. I guess The 981 has a more reliable engine (the 718 gt4 clubsport has the 3.8 engine not the new one)and its the same engine as the last 911 n/a engine. Including best sound. Besides the 981 was a more limited production than the new one. I guess that as a keeper the 981 will be better but no deny that the 718 spyder as maybe last n/a engine and gt parts will help in future as keeping prices high.
The blue is beautiful, better than red any day!
Noooooooooo!
So sad their offering the GT4 with PDK now… I’ve heard the bottom end of that 4.0 is seriously stout and can take the rpms all day long. Awesome review! Really wanted to make a smart ass remark that you were sitting to close to the wheel 🤣🤣🤣
Ha ha! We’re working on a seating position episode, kinda like the heel and toe we did last year. If people don’t believe a 2X USA national champ and 20+ year driver coach on how to sit, maybe they’ll believe some other experts!
The GT4 with PDK is a proper track weapon. To me, that’s where it makes sense.
So, you'd rather take the GTS 4.0 or the GT4?
Yes
Cayman GTS/GT4 or Evora GT?
765LT
I like that colour :-)
Oh, please-I love blue, darker, the better.
Sounds great and the size is perfect unlike today's 911 school buses.
I didn't mind the 992 at all.
Yeah, if you're going to ignore the massive 13 inches in length the car has ballooned to. It's currently the size of a 2012 Honda Civic sedan for heaven's sake. It's no longer a european sportscar now it ranks with the grotesque Dodges and Chevys of the world. Thank God for the Cayman, Audi TTRS, and Lotus.
Need PDK for daily driving
No.
@@BrianMakse try driving in Washington DC traffic all day Mr. Rogaine for men.
“Base is ace”… with Miata, but not in the Cayman I guess? What if you don’t want to spend $100k, how do you feel about buying a base cayman or Boxster with a couple of options for maybe $70k not GTS for so much. Is the GTS with the six worth $30 more than the base?
MX-5 vs Cayman? That’s apples vs margaritas, man.
@@BrianMakse - my question was about base Cayman v. GTS Cayman. Both are Porsche Caymans not Miatas. Is the GTS worth more than the Base Cayman? 😀
@@BrianMakse $30k more for GTS than a Base for $70? $30k more for the flat six???
@@BrianMakse -Merry Christmas and thanks for reply.
PCCB are not available on any GTS models in the US. Only in row or Canada can you get PCCBs.
Hi from 🇨🇦!
@@BrianMakse I realized as I watched more you were up North. Cheers! ✌️ Lucky you guys for the PCCBs!
I suppose I should say “eh” and “sorry” more often! Hope you enjoyed the episode.
@@BrianMakse Nah you're good sir! I will say that I prefer the Gentian and Satin Platinum like you've got here....but no complaints on Carmine!
@@Alpha718-4.0 Rock on!
Cayman or Evora?
If it's either/or, it's this. If it depends on what else is in my garage, then I could go either way.
If you want unnecessary tech, go for the P car....if you just get in and love driving, go for the Evora. Also, if you enjoy wrenching, go for the Lotus. It’s super user friendly to work on. Cars are very equally matched, it’s the owners that are different.
Yea oddly I'm trying to decide gt4 VS evora gt.. A few track days per year.. Have a daily driver c43Amg and golf R dct
That's the first time I've seen a Gentian Blue with Platinum wheels and I'm blown away by the combination. That would be my spec for the Boxster version. Regarding transmission, I had a Boxster 4.0 for a day and the most disappointing aspect of the whole experience was the manual transmission. The clutch was too light, the gearchange imprecise and because of being placed so high up on the console, it was uncomfortable to insert the gearlever into the lower gears. I'm 5ft 11 , so the seat was pushed right back. I became so frustrated that I left the car in 3rd gear and the torque did the rest. What a pleasure it was to get back into my manual 2003 Carrera C4S and experience a great gear change. I guess that I'll have to wait for the PDK version to see if this car is enjoyable or not.
FYI, another U-tuber mentioned that her information was to shift at engine RPM~1600 for best results. My experience with a VW GTI (self-taught) was similar, doesn't take long to adapt to that.
I don’t know what how you drive a stick, but I’ve had a manual 996, 997S, 981S and now a 718 GTS 4.0. In my opinion, each version is a. improvement over the previous in terms of the quality of the manual transmission feel and performance. The 996 is a long throw and hardly ideally positioned for intensive track driving. The GTS 4.0, GT4 and 991.2 GT3 are as close to perfect as you can get….and that’s the consensus of my local PCA enthusiasts. Maybe you need to take a few HPDC classes?
this vs 2021 M4?!!
If you check out our M4 review, you’ll have the answer!
@@BrianMakse I did... great review, too. but...which is the one you'd prefer?!!!
@@kerunbindra4053 the porsche gts of course, its a sportscar where the m3/m4 is a sporty family car. The older m3s are more like trackcars but if you want a modern sportscar you'll need to get the Porsche...
The 718 Spyder has the older gen 911 engine. It’s not the same as the 4.0 GTS
I feel for those that recently bought the 4-banger turbo GTS. Talk about taking a monetary hit.
It's not entirely a bad thing, save for retained value. Drop a little tune on the thing and you've got some big power and torque.
@@BrianMakse No its a personal thing. Just didn't want a turbo unless it was in a diesel. And tunes, if I need faster, I'd buy a faster car that is reliable. I know people that have these "tunes" and they blew up. Not fun when it is your daily driver.
the gearing ration in the manual isnt that great, 2nd gear is wayyyy too long, robs the fun. You can't hit redline because youre already doing 80mph
Agreed. Apparently Brian disagrees and probably toys a bit with the posted speed limits....maybe not
Base cayman is much better value proposition. Better for everyday life.
What base?
I don't think the manual is a good option in this car, not unless it is going to spend 90% of it's time on a track, the gearing is far too tall to have any fun on public roads, redline it in 2nd and you are well over legal speed limits. Pdk 4 me.
Couldn’t agree more
Manual please.
Heck, yeah!
No need to travel to “Mexico” for your driving footage when you are glued to the legal side of the double yellow
Mexico?
I don't know if the manual is better🤷🏻♂️
We'll find out shortly!
"closing in on"??? Its better in nearly every measurable way....except if you need a family car with back seats.
Circus trick 😂
😎
NO manual, NO GO!
Gimme!
never get carbon ceramics on a daily driver
Original 987 Porsche Cayman still looked better.
I have never used launch control on any of my cars that are/were equipped with it. I think it's LAME!
Agreed. It's like pressing the wing extension button and driving around in the city.
If you’re not an old fart and you slightly enjoy music, then for God’s sake order the Burmester. The Bose is shite- I have it in my Cayman S and it’s just naff.
I like the Burmester, but my hearing is wrecked from too many years of racing loud cars, so I can’t be an authority on the subject.
Manual gearbox gearing is way too long for the road. You'll never get out of second gear.
Haven’t driven it. What’s the rest of the gear spacing like?
Price is near GT4 without the big wings A marketing ploy to sell more GT4 ?
GT4 is a much harder car, definitely suited to a different purpose. I genuinely dig this spec for a road car. Save for the colour!
@@BrianMakse this vs 2021 F Type R for same price?!
You can't just buy a GT4.
Shame the 4 litre engine has just been recalled. Conrod issues. 👍🇬🇧
IIRC that’s limited to a certain range of build dates.
It’s about $90k (USA) and that’s with no options. That’s a lot of money for a roadster! A Miata is a better buy for about the same fun to drive.
first!
Excuse me, sir. Do you sleep?
@@BrianMakse I didn't lmao! I live for yours and motomans reviews lol.
@@BrianMakse nope😂
Jay, get your rest! MotoMan and I will be here when you wake up!
@@BrianMakse Yeah you're right lol I just can't help myself sometimes 😂
Get it in a manual and carbon brakes? This isn't a GT4 and the manual has questionable gearing. Sounds like a review by a racer, for wanna-be racers stuck in traffic.
Manuals are not ideal for the pursuit of the fastest lap times and carbons are not cost effective for track work.
Brian, how engaging can the manual be? 85mph at the top of second gear, so you get 1 shift. Wow, so rewarding. Driving in the city you have a car with a 7k torque peak, so at 70 kph you'd be lugging the motor around 2k rpms. This is not rewarding, it's frustrating. Buy the base, it has lower more attainable limits for the streets, and is therefore more useable, and fun.
It all depends why and what you are buying the car for and how you are going to use it. If it is city driving I can agree it should definitely be the PDK. However if it more for road trips on B or secondly roads and a weekend car , which you may track now and then, Then the manual is the way to go. It would be more enjoyable for a driver's driver.
Thats an ridiculous comment from someone I bet has never driven the GTS 4.0 with a manual. You don’t need to hit redline in every gear to enjoy the precise engagement and visceral feel.. And in case you haven’t compared, the gearing of the automatic PDK is nominally different than the manual. It redlines at nearly the same speeds in 1,2,3 gears.
Old people
Anonymous commenters.
Downvoted for not testing a manual
When do you plan on delivering a manual718 Cayman GTS for testing?
@@BrianMakse Sorry, I had a rough day, I understand the supply is limited, the downvote has been reversed.
Come here for the fun! We work to share the joy of the cars and provide honest driving impressions!
Sounds like crap imo
Tesla is better.
The ceramic brakes are NOT available on the GTS, the brakes are larger than the 718 S model. I've built one for myself a number of times and the brakes are steel only! Last year they were available on the 718 GTS 4-cylinder, can not understand why they deleted that option???
They certainly are available. To which country are you referring?
@@BrianMakse USA, if they are their hiding!
Hello from Canada (and the rest of the world) where they are indeed available.
I can’t get over how dated the dash is in these 718s. Lots of money for a car that looks 10years old.
Works perfectly, though.
@@BrianMakse Agreed! I was glad to get one before they moved to the newer 911 interiors. Manual, naturally aspirated engine with a 4L...analog driver's car....give me simple dials and push buttons and keep the touch screens for the Teslas 😂