This is how YT videos should be made. I can tell you care about being concise! No fluff and great editing! As a fellow YT presenter I really appreciate the effort in editing.
Excellent analysis! Liked and subscribed. I live in Canada (Calgary, Alberta) and bought a certified preowned 2007 Cayman base model 3 years ago. I am the second owner; the first owner had truly babied it and it was never winter driven (up here, you can get lots of salt and gravel on the roads - not to mention needing snow tires - in the winter). It only had 38,000 km on it and I paid $33,000 Canadian (about 23,600 miles and US$30,000 (at the time) for the benefit of you US readers). I have never winter driven it either, and it currently has about 55,000 km on it (a little over 34,000 miles). I'm not looking to sell it, but my mechanic (a German automobile specialist) tells me that I should be able to sell it for what I paid three years ago.
Really appreciate the info and straight forward presentation. Especially like that you don't have hokey music in the background like some youtube videos. Keep up the good work!
+John Haha "hockey music." That's funny! Some of my videos do have music, but I try to keep these data analysis ones simple and to the point. I'm glad you liked it!
Very nice and informative video. To those of you out there deciding whether to pull the trigger and buy, I have a 2014 S and LOVE! No issues, quick, exceptional handles and reliable. Buy 2014 as video recommended!
Thank you for a concise well documented comparison presentation of the Porsche Cayman. This answered many questions. Excellent edit job that kept it moving.
Great video, thanks much for posting. I have been scouring CPO listings for a 981 Cayman S for over a year and the data you present mirrors what I have seen personally. You hint at precisely my goal - I want to build a 'poor-man's GTS' by sourcing a CPO Cayman S with the GTS standard items I covet the most but not pay the premium I have seen the GTS command on the used market.
Thank you! You've got a great plan! The GTS may be a little more "special" in that it's a rarer car, but in the end, does that really matter if you can get the same experience for cheaper??
One thing to remember is that the 2009 and newer models don't have the IMS engine time bomb issue. That goes for the naturally aspirated 911, Cayman and Boxster models. If you buy a 2008 or newer model, budget another $2500 to get the bearing work done. Nice video, thanks for putting the data together.
Thanks for watching JC, we appreciate you taking time and leaving some commentary. We try to make the sometimes overwhelming process of buying a car just a little easier with our videos.
I own a 2014 Cayman base model that I bought in 2016. It currently has 22,000 miles and I have been offered more for what I bought it for. Best sports car on the market for the price! My only maintenance has been 2 oil changes and a new set of tires! Love the car.
I think you missed a few critical factors when it comes to discussing Porsche Caymans. For one, the earlier motors made from 2006 to 2008 are prone to some engine failures that the 2009 and later cars are not prone to. This all by itself makes those cars more valuable than the earlier versions. In addition, The 2009 to 2012 cars were significantly stronger then their earlier counterparts. Their interiors are also arguably nicer, and they included some exterior refinements as well. The Cayman R, the GTS and the GT4 we're all specialty models that command a higher value than the regular versions. The Porsche community holds the Cayman R and the GT4 in especially high regard because of their prowess on the racetrack, we are many Caymans find a second home. Many Porsche enthusiasts enjoy driving their cars in Porsche club of America drivers education track days. These three models are not merely option packages as you suggest, but the character of these cars is altogether different from the regular Cayman S. The GT4 and Cayman R especially will likely continue to appreciate over time, and are not easy cars to come by. This does not make them a bad value, however. Porsches historically have not depreciated as much as other cars, and as the 1970 to 1990 cars are demonstrating now, they are appreciating quite significantly. However, this is largely a component of number of cars made. In the case of the Boxster and 996 Carrera, they probably made way too many of these cars for them to ever see the kind of values that we are seeing with earlier cars. The Cayman in its base and S forms will likely also be impacted by the number of them made, although not as badly as the Boxster or 996. Still, those three special models that you mentioned will significantly outperform their standard versions in both performance and value over time. If you were to buy one of those three versions at a decent price now, you could more than likely drive it for 10 years and then sell it for a profit. One more big factor that you overlook is that the new Porsche Cayman's are all four-cylinder turbo models. The older Caymans were all flat six models. If you have driven the turbo car, there is no doubt that they are fast on paper, but they do not have nearly the same character as the older six-cylinder models. I also think that the standard shift cars overtime will outperform the PD K transmission cars, which are very prevalent now in the series. Many enthusiasts are buying the most recent ersions of the 997, The 991, and pre-718 Caymans because they simply do not want a turbo. Count me in among the group that does not like the new turbo technology they are putting in these cars. If I wanted a turbo, I would buy a turbo. Now the turbos are in just about everything they make whether it is badged has a turbo or not. Thankfully I have a stable of older Porsches that will outlast me on this earth.
+83911scdrew Thanks for the lengthy response. You're right about the refreshed cars being better than the old caymans with IMS issues. In hindsight, I should have mentioned that. I still don't agree with you about the Cayman R and GTS. The GT4, yes, but the other two are just not that special (especially the GTS) in my eyes. Maybe if I was a die hard Porsche guy, I'd have a different opinion on models like that. For someone looking for a good bargain on a Cayman, I don't think they are a good choice. As far as the new turbo cars, I don't think they are going to make as big of a difference on the market as most car enthusiasts think. The majority of people who buy these cars (at least the ones I've met) don't seem to know anything about them and the type of engine doesn't really matter. It's more of a fashion piece for them rather than a sports car. I do appreciate the constructive feedback! I always enjoy hearing other points of view!
83911scdrew you need to separate what you read in articles from JP's analysis. You've mostly used warmed over opinions in a list of media articles and anecdotes from Porsche enthusiasts. These aren't necessarily representative of the market and JP has used data and analysis. I'm not saying you didn't make some good points, but JP's analysis is strong.
Anna West Hi Anna, my comments do not come from reading articles. I have a lot of experience with these cars. I own five Porsches myself. I have an SCCA National Solo 2 Trophy driving a 2007 Cayman. I also in a nationally certified PCA instructor, and a chief instructor in our region which is one of the five largest regions in the country. I am also the past president of that region, and I have driven literally dozens of these cars both on the street and on the track. Therefore, my comments come from actually driving them and not from reading about them. JP's video is nicely done, but I might argue that your comments about gathering data from reading about cars is more applicable to his video then to my comment.
83911scdrew much respect for your credentials, which are impressive. I've (my name is Steve, btw... I'm just set up with my daughters TH-cam at the moment) only owned two Porsches, so my frame of reference is clearly more limited. But I must have missed the part of your comments where you described your credentials in financial analysis and tracking trends in the broader Porsche market, which extends substantially beyond the relatively focussed enthusiast market, in which you're clearly well established. JP's analysis is fact based, not anecdotal or opinion-based. That's the point I was making.
With all that said, I do appreciate your comments about the value of the flat six models relative to the newer turbo four. My 2014 is of course the flat six with a manual transmission. I chose it intentionally because I prefer the traditional set up, but also because it appears to be increasingly rare (if AutoTRADER is any indication) and will certainly have a traditionalist following as 6MT and flat six models become increasingly rare.
Great video. I did a lot of research, shopped across the country and ended up picking up my '16 Cayman S with SPE, PDK and PASM for $64k with 6k miles. I think I got a fair deal.
Great video and information! I know your channel specializes in Porsche's, but if you made a video like this on depreciation for other sports cars, you'd have a hit channel. A video like this on Honda s2000's, GTR's, Ferrari's, BMW M's, or just on must have iconic sports cars would bring you a lot of viewers.
Excellent analysis. I live in South Africa and get the sense that the 718 has not been that enthusiastically received here; most Porsche buyers seem to want the 6 cylinder motor. So maybe 981 models will hold value well in the future. Over here a low mileage, pre-owned GT4 sells at a premium of about 40% above sticker.
Thanks Garrick! It'll be real interesting to see how the 981 prices do with the 718s out there now. I don't think it's going to make that much of a difference. The majority of Porsche owners don't seem to care much about things like that. It's only the enthusiasts that it matters.
Curious about the market now. I have a C43 AMG. Took a base Cayman with SC, MT, and Sports Exhaust for a test drive. Have to say I was very impressed! It was used with 7k miles. Was a little more than I wanted to spend though. That's what brought me to this video.
I really appreciate your videos - great editing and a objective look at the data. Unfortunately, KBB data is very out of touch with real world Porsche values. This can cause some challenges when trying to finance a used car. For example, KBB says a no-option 2008 Cayman S is worth $25k but the average price on today on Autotrader is $33k with some as high as $40k. A no-option 2009 Cayman S on KBB is $28 but the average on Autotrader is $44K. That is a big delta!
Thank you for a very nice review. Everyone would love to get the best deal possible of course. I read these comments and so many are so concerned about depreciation that I wonder how they can enjoy the car. I have an '07 Cayman S purchased at Brumos used in Jacksonville, Florida. Brumos no longer exists and has been purchased by the Field's dealership group out of Lakeland. I bought the car with about 44,000 on it. It was not CPO as it hada history of an accident with repairs to CPO but since it had 3 panels to be painted, it could not be CPO'ed. No problem... I saved $10 K at purchase. Best car I ever had... Loaded... GT Silver with Terracota interior, Carbon Fiber and of course the 6 speed. Why anyone would buy the PDK unless you're going to actually race the car... or you are incapable of or not interested in learning how to use a manual gearbox is beyond me. The beauty in executing a great shift down or up... Heel/Toe... is what this car is about. I am unsure of my engine #, however said original engine in this car since coupled to GT 3 Intake Plenum/Throttle Body with Fabspeed race headers to balance of factory exhaust with Flashed chip by Reeves Motorsports in Tampa... Also beautiful machined short throw race shifter... Does 0-60 in no more than 4.0 seconds flat... Still gets 24-25 MPG on the Hwy... Use 100% synthetic w/ oil filter chg about every 6 weeks... easiest oil chg ever... This car currently has 278 THOUSAND miles on the original engine... The car has been exceedingly durable... Only common issues are fuel/oil separator a $1500 repair about every 100,000 and the shift cable... For those who own any one of these cars... get it out of the garage and drive it! My car is quicker than a LOT of 911's per Jeff Holcomb Service Mgr at Porsche of Tampa. These cars have just a little more "raw" in them compared to newer 911's and are becoming increasingly rare as most are eventually turned into race cars. Have a deposit on 2nd gen GT 4 which will be total weekend car with this as daily driver. Yep... Maybe worth 10K to a wannabe racer... but it looks great and is... ALL OF THAT when you want it to get up and SCAT! As Professor Porsche so famously said... "Porsches are meant to be driven.. not just looked at.." John Russell, Dade City, Fl.
John Russell thanks. Came to ask about this. Ballpark $25k for a clean Cayman S. Speed mods as you mentioned are not bad at all $50/hp. Light wheels, coilovers, etc easily under $10k total in mods and you have a much better Cayman than newer ones double the money. Even better buy one that's already got the mods you want--it may not cost more than a stock one. Amazing that you have so many miles on high performance car!
I have a 2007 Porsche 987 Cayman S with currently 407,000 mile on the odo...Purchased from Brumos with 42k on the odo. Original engine, NO IMS issues... Headers, GT3 Manifold, Flashed the chip 365BHP... Bilstein R 9 shocks, Machined short throw shifter, light weight flywheel... This car is ALL of THAT! The magic of changing the oil and filter with Mobil ONE or other Full Synthetic every 5-6,000 miles is the ticket... It's a "sleeper" for the street... 0-60 about 4 flat... So do not hesitate to buy a pre-owned 987 even with 100k on it... Really so long as the records are good... You'll have minimal issues... Fuel oil separator, coolant flush annually... New sport clutch at 350k. GREAT CAR! Kind of rare as most are turned into race cars...
I own the 2011 Cayman base and LOVE IT! I paid $1800 for Ceramic Pro+ with Paint Correction and she looks fantastic. I may drop a $15,000 TPC Turbo Kit in her next. I am still researching this to identify any negative effects including economy.
JP & Co. I'd love to hear a total combined cost of ownership, eg if you could track maintenance costs and see the inflection points, might make it clearer when to buy and when to sell :)
Thanks for your thorough analysis. Validates the low-mileage 2014 Cayman I just bought. Question 1: do you think going from 981 to 718 will have a significant impact on 981 values, given it's the last year with the flat 6-cyl engine? Question 2: It appears there are fewer 6MTs on the market for 981 and far more PDK transmissions. Are you able to determine whether the transmission choice will affect value, particularly if 6MT becomes less and less common on the resale market? Thanks for any thoughts on these questions.
The Cayman is better looking than the 911 and a much better value. Are you planning on doing the Macan? Also, it would be cool to see a video of when you predict the first $100k Huracan and 458 will sell on Ebay given that both of their predecessors are around that price now.
Out of interest can I ask which Cayman is your best looking Cayman? I'm always watching Cayman videos on YT and have just compared the 981 vs 987.2 in this video - th-cam.com/video/WYDXeuteJIw/w-d-xo.html
Really nice analysis. I wonder if the increased depreciation you're noting when compared against the 911 in the 2006-2008 years is basically for the fact that those are the first year models of the Cayman, and as such don't command much value when compared against the first remodel. The 911 doesn't have that issue as its genesis was many years before.
Very good and unique video on pricing. What I have seen is that the GT4 is VERY unique in that in its second year, its second USED year, it actually sold higher than sticker. That is rare for any car. The 2016 Cayman GT4 will remain a very collectible car down the road. There is no GT4 under $95,000 with low mileage. They were not marked up, the demand was there. The GT4 is not depreciating as I see it, it is actually climbing as the most limited, manual only, GT3 front end, Carrera S engined, Cayman ever made. Options DO HOLD VALUE (Carbon Fiber Seats, Ceramics, Synchro) all matter on resale. The GT4 is not going down my friend, it is only going up. With 2500 or less, many crashed or totaled on tracks, there are maybe 2000 with under 10,000 miles and maybe 1000 with under 5,000 miles.
Black on Black. Plan on adding gold Porsche wheel caps to the existing Carrera S wheels - to add a nice classic look. Do I need a special tool to remove the existing caps? I saw this advertised on a website and I do not want to scratch the wheels in the removal process. Thanks again for your help.
I've read that you can use a wire clothes hanger to pop off the center caps, but I've never done myself. I'd probably look on rennlist to see if those guys know more about it.
Great analysis of the Cayman. How do you think a 981 Boxster GTS with a manual transmission hold it's value in the future? I bought it new and only drive it about 2000 miles a year. They really are holding their initial value very well!
Very informative video -- thanks a ton for posting it. One thing I'm going to be interested to see is if the 981s hold value any better because of their 6-cylinder NA engines vs. the turbocharged 4s on the 718s.
Awesome analysis. I would like to make another point on this and that, the second box on your last graph shows that the 2009 and 2010; cayman and cayman s are 15000 to 20000$ less with no IMS, RMS issues and much better value for someone who wants to buy and hold. Just bought mine 2009 S for under 35000$ under 30000 miles.
I suspect you'll find that the big drop in price from 09 to 08 for Cayman is also shared by the Boxster and is due to the IMS issue. I believe the 09 cars were the first model year to get the new engine design that does away with the IMS.
Great job with plotting the cayman. Could you possible do a comparison between the 4 Generations of Volkswagen’s R series. MK4 R32, MKV R32, MKVI Golf R and MKVII Golf R!!
I like the video, very factual. One constructive criticism, don't use bounced light only as your main light in your room. It makes your eyes look dead. You need a softbox or something in front of you to add a catchlight. Also, if you can color balance your lights to daylight the windows behind you wouldn't be so blue.
Excellent video. A little over a year ago I was looking for my first Porsche, and was thinking Cayman S over the 911. I found a fully loaded 2014 Cayman S with only 7500 miles, but with a $55k ask it was out of my price range, plus there were other cars I wanted to look at. I ended up buying a very nice two-owner 2009 997.2 6MT Carrera coupe with only 35k miles and am very happy with it. Still like the look and features of the 981 Cayman S though.
Thanks for this. Two questions, how different are the maintenance/repair costs between the 911 and this? And are you planning to do a similar guide for the Boxster (esp. since that one has the IMS issue) and can be found rather cheaply?
I've never owned a cayman, so I can't be for sure, but I'd imagine maintenance is pretty similar to the 911. The majority of costs come from labor and that's going to be the same at the dealership regardless of the car. I could make on for the Boxster. It would be interesting to see how it compares to the Cayman!
I believe 2009 and later model years did away with the IMS bearing, but before that it was a known and documented issue. Still, you can get a 2009+ Cayman in good shape for $30k, what a bargain!
Indeed, the older Boxsters however can be found for around $20k in pretty good condition. The major caveat when buying one is to make sure the IMS has been replaced or expect to replace it.
For all of us concerned about the Porsche IMS Bearing issue - I found a very informative article from Autohaus Hamilton in Australia about the IMS. The article also lists all the models and engines (with engine numbers) that are affected. To read the article just type in “Autohaus Hamilton IMS” into google. 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
I haven't seen either any documented cases of ims failure on the 987 cayman or boxster. The 2006s were a bit more prone to problems, but nowhere near the level of the 986s
Looking at used Caymans is frustrating since it's hard to tell what suspension it has just from the photos... Could be the base suspension, PASM, or PASM Sport and they all look the same. That's one reason to get the GTS...you're guaranteed it will have the most desirable options!
He briefly mentioned how the options can effect price and as a buyer you should be aware that Cayman’s, like most Porsches, come in three basic flavors. 1. I want one but can’t afford it, what can I get with the least amount of options, “The Stripper”. 2. I want to blow my friends away at Starbucks, what can we load the car up with, “The Poser”. 3. OMG, this drives really well, what does the factory offer to enhance that, “The Driver”. To avoid getting a Cayman that really doesn’t fit your style or to max out your buying dollar, use a VIN decoder that shows what options were installed at the factory. As an example, 1st gen (2006-2008) Cayman S were about $60K with no options. You can find fully optioned Caymans above $90K, though most well equipped cars will come in between the high $60K to the high $70K. Remember these prices are for the car when it was new. And now the bad news, no matter what a Cayman cost new, $60K or $90k, on the used market they all seemed to be priced the same. So now you know why some Caymans seem so much sweeter than others.
Thanks for this, very helpful. I've done something similar but with Canadian data so it's a lot less inputs. I concluded the same as you did. A 2014 or 2015 Cayman S, manual with a few of the basic options is the best one to go for. Now I just have to find mine in red :)
Today, nearly 3 years later, a 2015 GTS can be found around 50k. I believe its the best for the money today. What do you think? It must be manual in my opinion, however.
+Albert M I hear ya! I'm obsessed with the 991.2 GT3 with the manual. It just may be the replacement for our Carrera. I'll work on one for GT3s. I've already got data for all of the GT cars. I just need an analyze it and record.
That would be great I have a 2018 Cayman S on order with a build date of 30 June and the GT3 came available at my dealership with 3800 miles in pristine condition waiting on the PPI. Though, I love the 718 Cayman S.....it was amazing to drive. Preferred it to the 2017 911 Carrera........
This is how YT videos should be made. I can tell you care about being concise! No fluff and great editing! As a fellow YT presenter I really appreciate the effort in editing.
Thanks man! Are you in Raleigh?! I watched a few of your videos and recognized the London Bridge Pub!
JP & Co. Yea I'm downtown. I love to shoot all around Raleigh.
+Public Piper Very cool! I'm less than ten minutes from DT. I'll have to keep and eye out for you when I'm out!
JP & Co. H
JP, can you do an updated video for porsche's? Its been almost 2 years since this video was posted.
4 now :/
This is to the point with clear analysis and no BS.Loved it .Keep it Up!
Excellent analysis! Liked and subscribed. I live in Canada (Calgary, Alberta) and bought a certified preowned 2007 Cayman base model 3 years ago. I am the second owner; the first owner had truly babied it and it was never winter driven (up here, you can get lots of salt and gravel on the roads - not to mention needing snow tires - in the winter). It only had 38,000 km on it and I paid $33,000 Canadian (about 23,600 miles and US$30,000 (at the time) for the benefit of you US readers). I have never winter driven it either, and it currently has about 55,000 km on it (a little over 34,000 miles). I'm not looking to sell it, but my mechanic (a German automobile specialist) tells me that I should be able to sell it for what I paid three years ago.
+MrDJS444 that's the beauty of these cars! Once they take the initial hit, their values stay relatively stable!
dude this video and your others have so much quality and structure that its crazy. great job. getting a 2015 cayman s soon, thanks for the suggestion
Well done. Thank you. I just bought a base 981 Cayman; I had to have six cylinders of Porsche heaven.
Congrats and enjoy!
Really appreciate the info and straight forward presentation. Especially like that you don't have hokey music in the background like some youtube videos. Keep up the good work!
+John Haha "hockey music." That's funny! Some of my videos do have music, but I try to keep these data analysis ones simple and to the point. I'm glad you liked it!
Thank you for all of your hard work, fantastic and informative video!
Thanks!
JP & Co. zzz m,,on
Found your channel last night which was fantastic. I purchased a 15' Cayman S today. Your video helped a lot with my decision. Thank you.
Thanks man! Contrast on the Cayman S! It's a great car!
Very nice and informative video. To those of you out there deciding whether to pull the trigger and buy, I have a 2014 S and LOVE! No issues, quick, exceptional handles and reliable. Buy 2014 as video recommended!
Thanks! Did you get the PDK or manual with your S?
PDK . . . it's sweet!.
Thank you for a concise well documented comparison presentation of the Porsche Cayman. This answered many questions.
Excellent edit job that kept it moving.
+FHCavanaugh Thank you!
I hope you can update this every couple years (now its 2019). Great video straight-forward and informative.
Very well done, you’ve single handily taken the guess work out for people looking for deals. Nice work man. 🤝
+Joseph Coram Thanks for watching, commenting, and subscribing!
Great video, thanks much for posting. I have been scouring CPO listings for a 981 Cayman S for over a year and the data you present mirrors what I have seen personally. You hint at precisely my goal - I want to build a 'poor-man's GTS' by sourcing a CPO Cayman S with the GTS standard items I covet the most but not pay the premium I have seen the GTS command on the used market.
Thank you! You've got a great plan! The GTS may be a little more "special" in that it's a rarer car, but in the end, does that really matter if you can get the same experience for cheaper??
One thing to remember is that the 2009 and newer models don't have the IMS engine time bomb issue. That goes for the naturally aspirated 911, Cayman and Boxster models. If you buy a 2008 or newer model, budget another $2500 to get the bearing work done.
Nice video, thanks for putting the data together.
+DarkClosetOfTheMind Thanks! You're absolutely right about the IMS!
Excellent analysis!!!! Loved it. Very well spoken and great explanation of statistics.
Thanks for watching JC, we appreciate you taking time and leaving some commentary. We try to make the sometimes overwhelming process of buying a car just a little easier with our videos.
I own a 2014 Cayman base model that I bought in 2016. It currently has 22,000 miles and I have been offered more for what I bought it for. Best sports car on the market for the price! My only maintenance has been 2 oil changes and a new set of tires! Love the car.
The best video I've seen on buying a used cayman. Thanks for all your hard work, I'm subscribing.
+Steve Evans Thanks Steve. Glad you found it useful!
I think you missed a few critical factors when it comes to discussing Porsche Caymans.
For one, the earlier motors made from 2006 to 2008 are prone to some engine failures that the 2009 and later cars are not prone to. This all by itself makes those cars more valuable than the earlier versions. In addition, The 2009 to 2012 cars were significantly stronger then their earlier counterparts. Their interiors are also arguably nicer, and they included some exterior refinements as well.
The Cayman R, the GTS and the GT4 we're all specialty models that command a higher value than the regular versions. The Porsche community holds the Cayman R and the GT4 in especially high regard because of their prowess on the racetrack, we are many Caymans find a second home. Many Porsche enthusiasts enjoy driving their cars in Porsche club of America drivers education track days. These three models are not merely option packages as you suggest, but the character of these cars is altogether different from the regular Cayman S. The GT4 and Cayman R especially will likely continue to appreciate over time, and are not easy cars to come by. This does not make them a bad value, however.
Porsches historically have not depreciated as much as other cars, and as the 1970 to 1990 cars are demonstrating now, they are appreciating quite significantly. However, this is largely a component of number of cars made. In the case of the Boxster and 996 Carrera, they probably made way too many of these cars for them to ever see the kind of values that we are seeing with earlier cars. The Cayman in its base and S forms will likely also be impacted by the number of them made, although not as badly as the Boxster or 996. Still, those three special models that you mentioned will significantly outperform their standard versions in both performance and value over time. If you were to buy one of those three versions at a decent price now, you could more than likely drive it for 10 years and then sell it for a profit.
One more big factor that you overlook is that the new Porsche Cayman's are all four-cylinder turbo models. The older Caymans were all flat six models. If you have driven the turbo car, there is no doubt that they are fast on paper, but they do not have nearly the same character as the older six-cylinder models. I also think that the standard shift cars overtime will outperform the PD K transmission cars, which are very prevalent now in the series. Many enthusiasts are buying the most recent ersions of the 997, The 991, and pre-718 Caymans because they simply do not want a turbo. Count me in among the group that does not like the new turbo technology they are putting in these cars. If I wanted a turbo, I would buy a turbo. Now the turbos are in just about everything they make whether it is badged has a turbo or not. Thankfully I have a stable of older Porsches that will outlast me on this earth.
+83911scdrew Thanks for the lengthy response.
You're right about the refreshed cars being better than the old caymans with IMS issues. In hindsight, I should have mentioned that.
I still don't agree with you about the Cayman R and GTS. The GT4, yes, but the other two are just not that special (especially the GTS) in my eyes. Maybe if I was a die hard Porsche guy, I'd have a different opinion on models like that. For someone looking for a good bargain on a Cayman, I don't think they are a good choice.
As far as the new turbo cars, I don't think they are going to make as big of a difference on the market as most car enthusiasts think. The majority of people who buy these cars (at least the ones I've met) don't seem to know anything about them and the type of engine doesn't really matter. It's more of a fashion piece for them rather than a sports car.
I do appreciate the constructive feedback! I always enjoy hearing other points of view!
83911scdrew you need to separate what you read in articles from JP's analysis. You've mostly used warmed over opinions in a list of media articles and anecdotes from Porsche enthusiasts. These aren't necessarily representative of the market and JP has used data and analysis. I'm not saying you didn't make some good points, but JP's analysis is strong.
Anna West Hi Anna, my comments do not come from reading articles. I have a lot of experience with these cars. I own five Porsches myself. I have an SCCA National Solo 2 Trophy driving a 2007 Cayman. I also in a nationally certified PCA instructor, and a chief instructor in our region which is one of the five largest regions in the country. I am also the past president of that region, and I have driven literally dozens of these cars both on the street and on the track. Therefore, my comments come from actually driving them and not from reading about them. JP's video is nicely done, but I might argue that your comments about gathering data from reading about cars is more applicable to his video then to my comment.
83911scdrew much respect for your credentials, which are impressive. I've (my name is Steve, btw... I'm just set up with my daughters TH-cam at the moment) only owned two Porsches, so my frame of reference is clearly more limited.
But I must have missed the part of your comments where you described your credentials in financial analysis and tracking trends in the broader Porsche market, which extends substantially beyond the relatively focussed enthusiast market, in which you're clearly well established.
JP's analysis is fact based, not anecdotal or opinion-based. That's the point I was making.
With all that said, I do appreciate your comments about the value of the flat six models relative to the newer turbo four. My 2014 is of course the flat six with a manual transmission. I chose it intentionally because I prefer the traditional set up, but also because it appears to be increasingly rare (if AutoTRADER is any indication) and will certainly have a traditionalist following as 6MT and flat six models become increasingly rare.
Great video. I did a lot of research, shopped across the country and ended up picking up my '16 Cayman S with SPE, PDK and PASM for $64k with 6k miles. I think I got a fair deal.
+JoeyandLindsay I think you did too. I'd be very happy with that! -Adam
Great video and information! I know your channel specializes in Porsche's, but if you made a video like this on depreciation for other sports cars, you'd have a hit channel. A video like this on Honda s2000's, GTR's, Ferrari's, BMW M's, or just on must have iconic sports cars would bring you a lot of viewers.
+Soren Lausen Thanks Soren! We do other cars too! Did the GTR a few weeks ago.
JP & Co. suscribed!
Excellent analysis. I live in South Africa and get the sense that the 718 has not been that enthusiastically received here; most Porsche buyers seem to want the 6 cylinder motor. So maybe 981 models will hold value well in the future. Over here a low mileage, pre-owned GT4 sells at a premium of about 40% above sticker.
Thanks Garrick! It'll be real interesting to see how the 981 prices do with the 718s out there now. I don't think it's going to make that much of a difference. The majority of Porsche owners don't seem to care much about things like that. It's only the enthusiasts that it matters.
Curious about the market now. I have a C43 AMG. Took a base Cayman with SC, MT, and Sports Exhaust for a test drive. Have to say I was very impressed! It was used with 7k miles. Was a little more than I wanted to spend though. That's what brought me to this video.
I really appreciate your videos - great editing and a objective look at the data. Unfortunately, KBB data is very out of touch with real world Porsche values. This can cause some challenges when trying to finance a used car. For example, KBB says a no-option 2008 Cayman S is worth $25k but the average price on today on Autotrader is $33k with some as high as $40k. A no-option 2009 Cayman S on KBB is $28 but the average on Autotrader is $44K. That is a big delta!
Excellent video! Just picked up a 14 Cayman CPO with 24k miles. Had it detailed for about 700 and it looks like new! Look forward to more videos
This fantastic video could use a refresher - I'd be interested to see how list changes...
Nice data-based presentation. Like!
+Robert M thanks Robert! -Adam
great video with exactly the info I've been looking for! Thanks for putting it together!
Thanks! We hope you can put some of this info to work for you!
Want to upgrade to Cayman 2018. I bought Cayman in 2007 when 1st release. After 10 years, still loving it.
fucking love the data driven approach to this video.
+Joe Walsh Thanks Joe. Glad you enjoyed it! -Adam
Subscribed! I've watched a few of your videos but this one is SO timely! I've really been thinking about Cayman's ;)
They really are great cars.
+1.. Many thanks! Cayman model Porsche's Rule ! signed, a MY98 911 (993) C2S coupe owner ...
+1. .. Very nice explanation of Cayman depreciation.. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for a very nice review. Everyone would love to get the best deal possible of course. I read these comments and so many are so concerned about depreciation that I wonder how they can enjoy the car. I have an '07 Cayman S purchased at Brumos used in Jacksonville, Florida. Brumos no longer exists and has been purchased by the Field's dealership group out of Lakeland. I bought the car with about 44,000 on it. It was not CPO as it hada history of an accident with repairs to CPO but since it had 3 panels to be painted, it could not be CPO'ed. No problem... I saved $10 K at purchase. Best car I ever had... Loaded... GT Silver with Terracota interior, Carbon Fiber and of course the 6 speed. Why anyone would buy the PDK unless you're going to actually race the car... or you are incapable of or not interested in learning how to use a manual gearbox is beyond me. The beauty in executing a great shift down or up... Heel/Toe... is what this car is about. I am unsure of my engine #, however said original engine in this car since coupled to GT 3 Intake Plenum/Throttle Body with Fabspeed race headers to balance of factory exhaust with Flashed chip by Reeves Motorsports in Tampa... Also beautiful machined short throw race shifter... Does 0-60 in no more than 4.0 seconds flat... Still gets 24-25 MPG on the Hwy... Use 100% synthetic w/ oil filter chg about every 6 weeks... easiest oil chg ever... This car currently has 278 THOUSAND miles on the original engine... The car has been exceedingly durable... Only common issues are fuel/oil separator a $1500 repair about every 100,000 and the shift cable... For those who own any one of these cars... get it out of the garage and drive it! My car is quicker than a LOT of 911's per Jeff Holcomb Service Mgr at Porsche of Tampa. These cars have just a little more "raw" in them compared to newer 911's and are becoming increasingly rare as most are eventually turned into race cars. Have a deposit on 2nd gen GT 4 which will be total weekend car with this as daily driver. Yep... Maybe worth 10K to a wannabe racer... but it looks great and is... ALL OF THAT when you want it to get up and SCAT! As Professor Porsche so famously said... "Porsches are meant to be driven.. not just looked at.." John Russell, Dade City, Fl.
About 365 HP with GT3 Plenum, Fabspeed race headers and flashed chip... Total cost to go from 295 HP to 365 HP was about $4K!
+John Russell You have a Cayman S with 278,000 miles on it?! That's got to be a record!
John Russell thanks. Came to ask about this. Ballpark $25k for a clean Cayman S. Speed mods as you mentioned are not bad at all $50/hp. Light wheels, coilovers, etc easily under $10k total in mods and you have a much better Cayman than newer ones double the money. Even better buy one that's already got the mods you want--it may not cost more than a stock one.
Amazing that you have so many miles on high performance car!
I absolutely love this video. Brilliant to be completely led by the data. Thank you.
This is tight and pithy. Thank you for consolidating this info and the astute observations!
Thanks for watching our vids!
This is really one of the best and most informative videos. Keep it up and keep it coming!
Thanks, man! Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for the excellent buyers' guide. You've spelled it out quite nicely.
+longbowdt thanks man!
great video, charts, content/info, and editing.
+Marcelo Palacios thanks!
Great work! I love guys speaking with stats in their hands!
+JIAWEI Zhao thanks buddy! Glad you enjoyed it!
I have been price shopping 14's and 15's and appreciate your input. I am leaning toward the 15's due to the warranty and definitely a CPO. Thanks
Thanks for this excellent price review. I bought a 2014 Cayman S just now and felt like a got the sweet spot in the price.
You're welcome! I hope you enjoy your car. I'm sure you will!
I have a 2007 Porsche 987 Cayman S with currently 407,000 mile on the
odo...Purchased from Brumos with 42k on the odo. Original engine, NO
IMS issues... Headers, GT3 Manifold, Flashed the chip 365BHP... Bilstein
R 9 shocks, Machined short throw shifter, light weight flywheel... This
car is ALL of THAT! The magic of changing the oil and filter with
Mobil ONE or other Full Synthetic every 5-6,000 miles is the ticket...
It's a "sleeper" for the street... 0-60 about 4 flat... So do not
hesitate to buy a pre-owned 987 even with 100k on it... Really so long
as the records are good... You'll have minimal issues... Fuel oil
separator, coolant flush annually... New sport clutch at 350k. GREAT
CAR! Kind of rare as most are turned into race cars...
I own the 2011 Cayman base and LOVE IT! I paid $1800 for Ceramic Pro+ with Paint Correction and she looks fantastic. I may drop a $15,000 TPC Turbo Kit in her next. I am still researching this to identify any negative effects including economy.
Wow
This is the best video and informative that I have seen in a long time.
Thanks for the positive feedback and support! We released videos every Saturday at 8am EST, so stay tuned for more great Porsche content.
JP & Co. I'd love to hear a total combined cost of ownership, eg if you could track maintenance costs and see the inflection points, might make it clearer when to buy and when to sell :)
Thanks for your thorough analysis. Validates the low-mileage 2014 Cayman I just bought.
Question 1: do you think going from 981 to 718 will have a significant impact on 981 values, given it's the last year with the flat 6-cyl engine?
Question 2: It appears there are fewer 6MTs on the market for 981 and far more PDK transmissions. Are you able to determine whether the transmission choice will affect value, particularly if 6MT becomes less and less common on the resale market?
Thanks for any thoughts on these questions.
Extremely logical analysis.
Thanks!
Fantastic analysis method and very well presented. Thank you!
Thank you!
I wish you success with your TH-cam project.
Subscribed!
Thanks for subscribing, we have lots more content coming so stay tuned!
JP & Co. I will. But the Cayman is the only car I am after. It will be my first car - I am a 38 year old motorbike-driver.
Excellent analysis, thanks for doing this.
+dredgeboater Thank you!
The Cayman is better looking than the 911 and a much better value. Are you planning on doing the Macan? Also, it would be cool to see a video of when you predict the first $100k Huracan and 458 will sell on Ebay given that both of their predecessors are around that price now.
+ryanakron thanks for the ideas! I've actually collected data on the 458 already. I just need to analyze it!
Out of interest can I ask which Cayman is your best looking Cayman? I'm always watching Cayman videos on YT and have just compared the 981 vs 987.2 in this video - th-cam.com/video/WYDXeuteJIw/w-d-xo.html
Love the analysis!! Thank-you very much...do you have something similar for Boxster?
+Mayuresh Hegde Thank you! I've had a bunch of people request the Boxster analysis. I'm working on it. Should be out soon!
Really nice analysis. I wonder if the increased depreciation you're noting when compared against the 911 in the 2006-2008 years is basically for the fact that those are the first year models of the Cayman, and as such don't command much value when compared against the first remodel. The 911 doesn't have that issue as its genesis was many years before.
+Russell Tarver That's a good point Russell! You may be on to something.
Great vid, thanks for the pointers.
+Anarkist2k8 Thank you!
Very good and unique video on pricing. What I have seen is that the GT4 is VERY unique in that in its second year, its second USED year, it actually sold higher than sticker. That is rare for any car. The 2016 Cayman GT4 will remain a very collectible car down the road. There is no GT4 under $95,000 with low mileage. They were not marked up, the demand was there. The GT4 is not depreciating as I see it, it is actually climbing as the most limited, manual only, GT3 front end, Carrera S engined, Cayman ever made. Options DO HOLD VALUE (Carbon Fiber Seats, Ceramics, Synchro) all matter on resale. The GT4 is not going down my friend, it is only going up. With 2500 or less, many crashed or totaled on tracks, there are maybe 2000 with under 10,000 miles and maybe 1000 with under 5,000 miles.
Although the information is based on the US market and not so relevant to me, I would still like to say it is great and helpful work.
I'm impressed...very analytical.
+Diek Krid thank you!
This data aligns spot on with my 💭 on which Porsche to purchase. In your opinion, which Cayman is the better buy for 2017, the base or S? Thanks!
Thanks for your great overview on these cars. I'd like the GT4 but I'm not prepared to sell my house to get one.
haha. I wonder if they'll make a GT4 RS model. I've heard rumors about it.
Not sure why anyone would dislike this
Thank you for such an educated video. Greatly appreciated.
very informative and well presented
+I o k Lilj Thank you!
Black on Black. Plan on adding gold Porsche wheel caps to the existing Carrera S wheels - to add a nice classic look.
Do I need a special tool to remove the existing caps? I saw this advertised on a website and I do not want to scratch the wheels in the removal process. Thanks again for your help.
I've read that you can use a wire clothes hanger to pop off the center caps, but I've never done myself. I'd probably look on rennlist to see if those guys know more about it.
Well done ! Thanks for cutting to the chase.
Very good video. Thank you for your hard work.
Thanks for watching and commenting!
+Green Green Thanks for watching!
Nicely done. Gonna pull the trigger soon on an S in the $45k range....
Great news, congrats!
I bought a 2014 wtih my research. I got super lucky and found a really good deal I had to take.
Josh Luthman how much
It's been nearly a year so what I paid isn't going to be relevant.
Josh Luthman i just wanted to know bcuz u said u got a good deal
Josh Luthman tell us
Such a great informative and professional video.
Great video guy. And the 2014 is definitely the best bang as of time of writing.
Great analysis of depreciation, extremely helpful info!
Great analysis of the Cayman. How do you think a 981 Boxster GTS with a manual transmission hold it's value in the future? I bought it new and only drive it about 2000 miles a year. They really are holding their initial value very well!
+Jeff Poirier Jeff, I'm actually collecting data on all the Boxsters as we speak! I suspect the GTS will behave similarly to the coupe tho.
Very informative video -- thanks a ton for posting it. One thing I'm going to be interested to see is if the 981s hold value any better because of their 6-cylinder NA engines vs. the turbocharged 4s on the 718s.
+Craig Liess Thanks Craig! I personally don't think the 981 will hold its value better because of the 718. Maybe a little, but nothing drastic.
I just bought a 2007 Porsche Cayman for 12.5k. Should give you some ideas. 85k miles, but it's been well taken care of. I got solid deal.
Amazing stats. I pray you make a vid like this around 2020, because I will be spending a #@$$ Ton of money on my 50th birthday gift. Thx.
+Carlos Dorantes haha thanks Carlos. I'm sure this video will be due for an update by then.
correct me if I am wrong: 2017 prices don't include sales tax while the pre-owned prices are all you pay, right?
+Jarpen Emeletele Hi Jarpen. Sales tax was not included with any car in this analysis. -Adam
Awesome analysis. I would like to make another point on this and that, the second box on your last graph shows that the 2009 and 2010; cayman and cayman s are 15000 to 20000$ less with no IMS, RMS issues and much better value for someone who wants to buy and hold. Just bought mine 2009 S for under 35000$ under 30000 miles.
I suspect you'll find that the big drop in price from 09 to 08 for Cayman is also shared by the Boxster and is due to the IMS issue. I believe the 09 cars were the first model year to get the new engine design that does away with the IMS.
Great work bro ! Thanks for all of the information. :)
+Vedant Tiwari Thank you!
great relevant analysis even if its not aimed at European models, very good info piece that makes sense even over here
Thank you! very good analysis.
Thanks for the feedback and watching our channel!
Good video with good solid info
Great job with plotting the cayman.
Could you possible do a comparison between the 4 Generations of Volkswagen’s R series. MK4 R32, MKV R32, MKVI Golf R and MKVII Golf R!!
Maveric073 yea the engine change from R 32 to new R is pretty much comparing 981 to 718. I own a mk 7 R.
I like the video, very factual. One constructive criticism, don't use bounced light only as your main light in your room. It makes your eyes look dead. You need a softbox or something in front of you to add a catchlight. Also, if you can color balance your lights to daylight the windows behind you wouldn't be so blue.
Thanks for the feedback John, we'll have to work on getting that closer to perfection in our next video.
Excellent video. A little over a year ago I was looking for my first Porsche, and was thinking Cayman S over the 911. I found a fully loaded 2014 Cayman S with only 7500 miles, but with a $55k ask it was out of my price range, plus there were other cars I wanted to look at. I ended up buying a very nice two-owner 2009 997.2 6MT Carrera coupe with only 35k miles and am very happy with it. Still like the look and features of the 981 Cayman S though.
Very nice review. Thanks!
What a fantastic and informative video. Subscribed!
Thanks man! I need that check engine light shirt you've got on in your video. The light just came on in my A4 haha.
Excellent presentation. Cheers.
really well put together thx
Thanks, James!
Thanks for this. Two questions, how different are the maintenance/repair costs between the 911 and this? And are you planning to do a similar guide for the Boxster (esp. since that one has the IMS issue) and can be found rather cheaply?
I've never owned a cayman, so I can't be for sure, but I'd imagine maintenance is pretty similar to the 911. The majority of costs come from labor and that's going to be the same at the dealership regardless of the car. I could make on for the Boxster. It would be interesting to see how it compares to the Cayman!
I believe 2009 and later model years did away with the IMS bearing, but before that it was a known and documented issue. Still, you can get a 2009+ Cayman in good shape for $30k, what a bargain!
Indeed, the older Boxsters however can be found for around $20k in pretty good condition. The major caveat when buying one is to make sure the IMS has been replaced or expect to replace it.
For all of us concerned about the Porsche IMS Bearing issue - I found a very informative article from Autohaus Hamilton in Australia about the IMS. The article also lists all the models and engines (with engine numbers) that are affected. To read the article just type in “Autohaus Hamilton IMS” into google. 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
I haven't seen either any documented cases of ims failure on the 987 cayman or boxster. The 2006s were a bit more prone to problems, but nowhere near the level of the 986s
One thing to note is that they were redesigned in 2014 (which is probably why they skipped 2013) also my grandfather and I are going to buy one soon.
You're absolutely right!
Looking at used Caymans is frustrating since it's hard to tell what suspension it has just from the photos... Could be the base suspension, PASM, or PASM Sport and they all look the same. That's one reason to get the GTS...you're guaranteed it will have the most desirable options!
He briefly mentioned how the options can effect price and as a buyer you should be aware that Cayman’s, like most Porsches, come in three basic flavors.
1. I want one but can’t afford it, what can I get with the least amount of options, “The Stripper”.
2. I want to blow my friends away at Starbucks, what can we load the car up with, “The Poser”.
3. OMG, this drives really well, what does the factory offer to enhance that, “The Driver”.
To avoid getting a Cayman that really doesn’t fit your style or to max out your buying dollar, use a VIN decoder that shows what options were installed at the factory. As an example, 1st gen (2006-2008) Cayman S were about $60K with no options. You can find fully optioned Caymans above $90K, though most well equipped cars will come in between the high $60K to the high $70K. Remember these prices are for the car when it was new.
And now the bad news, no matter what a Cayman cost new, $60K or $90k, on the used market they all seemed to be priced the same. So now you know why some Caymans seem so much sweeter than others.
Thanks for this, very helpful. I've done something similar but with Canadian data so it's a lot less inputs.
I concluded the same as you did. A 2014 or 2015 Cayman S, manual with a few of the basic options is the best one to go for. Now I just have to find mine in red :)
+Money Talk Does the Porsche pre-owned search work in Canada? I've only used he US site.
Today, nearly 3 years later, a 2015 GTS can be found around 50k. I believe its the best for the money today. What do you think? It must be manual in my opinion, however.
I’ve become a bigger fan of the GTS since we made these videos. What’s really crazy is when you realize a GT4 will cost you about $40k more than a GTS
Interesting video...have you done anything similar for the 911 GT3....curious since I am on the verge of purchasing a 2016 GT3.
+Albert M I hear ya! I'm obsessed with the 991.2 GT3 with the manual. It just may be the replacement for our Carrera.
I'll work on one for GT3s. I've already got data for all of the GT cars. I just need an analyze it and record.
That would be great I have a 2018 Cayman S on order with a build date of 30 June and the GT3 came available at my dealership with 3800 miles in pristine condition waiting on the PPI. Though, I love the 718 Cayman S.....it was amazing to drive. Preferred it to the 2017 911 Carrera........
Fantastic and very knowledgeable video. Thank you.
Great video with useful info! Thanks!
Good job. Very helpful. Subscribed.
Thanks, Danny!
just bought a gt4, collecting it next weekend. I do not think the price will drop significantly any time soon.
This is going to be a loooong week! haha
Great details of information! 👍🏻👍🏻
Can you do one for Lamborghini huracan ?
Ferrari 458 and 488?
Mclaren 570s models, entry level ?
+Frank Kwok Thanks frank! I'll add those all to the to-do list!