The first Cayman is actually presented in 1995 - internally, at Porsche. Due to the success of the Boxster, however, Porsche delays the Boxster coupé's introduction for ten years.

Launched in 2005, the mid-engined (flat-6) Cayman is offered in two states of tune: 245 and 290 horsepower (@ 6,500 rpm). Optionally available are ceramic composite brakes; active suspension management (reducing the ride height by 10 millimeters), and a Sport Chrono package to sharpen engine; tiptronic, and damper response.

At 1,385 kilograms, a base Cayman weighs 145 kilograms less than a 911 Carrera. Its weight distribution is more even, at 46/54% (versus 38/62%).

The 245-horsepower Cayman, producing 273 newton-meters of torque (@ 4,600 rpm) can accelerate to 100 km/h from rest in 6.3 seconds. Top speed? 260 km/h.