Entry-level luxury sports car (mid-engine, rear-wheel drive)
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Lotus Evora, BMW Z4, Audi TT, Nissan 370Z Roadster
Key Features
Vehicle Philosophy:
The Cayman is Porsche's interpretation of a more accessible, yet still highly capable, mid-engine sports car, focusing on driving dynamics and balanced performance.
Manual Value Proposition
Value:
Provides official, licensed factory data for DIY repairs, saving significant costs compared to dealership service.
๐ Manual Details
Coverage Areas
Primary Coverage:
Comprehensive service and repair for the 2011 Porsche Cayman
Secondary Coverage:
Maintenance, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and repair procedures
Page Count
Estimated Pages:
Extensive (Software-based, dynamic content; not a fixed page count)
Manual Type
Type:
Official Licensed Service and Repair Manual Software
Not directly rated as a niche sports car, but generally reflects Porsche's high safety standards.
Active Features
Braking System:
Four-piston aluminum monobloc fixed-caliper brakes, internally ventilated and cross-drilled discs
Electronic Stability Control:
Porsche Stability Management (PSM) with ABS, ASR, ABD, MSR
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags, head airbags (curtain type)
Body Structure:
High-strength steel integrated safety cage
๐ก Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
PCM (Porsche Communication Management) system, often with navigation, CD/DVD player, and optional Bluetooth/USB interface.
Driver Assistance
Traction Control:
Porsche Stability Management (PSM) is standard, with Sport mode options.
Parking Assistance:
Optional ParkAssist (rear parking sensors).
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free phone interface.
๐ง Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first (flexible depending on driving style and oil type, consult manual).
Major Service Interval:
Refer to manual for detailed service plan, often around 20,000-40,000 miles for spark plugs, brake fluid flush, etc.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Spec:
Porsche A40 approved synthetic oil, typically 0W-40 or 5W-40 (e.g., Mobil 1 0W-40)
Coolant Spec:
Porsche Coolant Additive (G48) or equivalent G12/G13 coolant, typically 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Plus or DOT 5.1
Known Issues
Common Problems:
IMS bearing (less prevalent on later models with larger engines, but still a consideration), oil leaks (e.g., rear main seal, valve cover gaskets), PDK transmission mechatronics issues, brake pad wear due to spirited driving.
Common Procedures
Filter Part Numbers:
Oil filter: 997.107.225.02 (check for exact fitment), Air filter: 997.110.130.00 (check for exact fitment)
๐ Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Legacy:
Porsche has a storied history in motorsport and sports car development, emphasizing performance, engineering excellence, and driver engagement.
Model Evolution
Cayman Genesis:
Introduced in 2005 as the first Porsche to feature a mid-engine configuration from the outset, distinct from the Boxster.
987 Generation:
The 987 generation (2005-2012) saw continuous refinement, with the 987 II (facelift from 2009) receiving updated styling, direct injection engines, and the PDK transmission.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Finland (Valmet Automotive) under contract for Porsche
๐ Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
General Accolades:
The Cayman (987 generation) consistently received praise from automotive publications for its exceptional handling, steering feedback, and chassis balance.
General Accolades
Handling Reputation:
Considered one of the best-handling cars in its class, offering a pure sports car driving experience.