Search Car Reviews



See all makes



Porsche Cayman R vs 904

We see if the extreme new Porsche Cayman R can live up to the reputation of its legendary, track-inspired forebear: the 904...

Porsche Cayman R vs 904 header

Photos: Otis Clay/ Dave Smith May 2011

How do you improve 
on perfection? That was 
the question facing bosses at Porsche when they were looking to tweak the stunning Cayman. 

The coupé is more affordable than the 911, and less glitzy than the Boxster, and is widely regarded as the purists’ choice. It’s for those who value driving thrills above everything else. 

In fact, with its eye-catching looks, beautifully balanced 
mid-engined handling and 
howling flat-six powerplant, 
the two-seater is one of the 
most complete sports 
cars in the business. 
Despite this, the brand’s 
team of engineers remained undaunted  – and the result is the Cayman R. Faster and lighter than any other variant in the coupé line-up, the stripped-
out model promises to deliver even more hardcore, race car-inspired driving thrills than 
the standard machine. 

However, this isn’t the 
first time that Porsche has 
built a lightweight, motorsport-themed mid-engined coupé. In 1964, it unveiled the 904, which provided serious involvement and supercar performance. Unlike the Cayman R, the sleek Sixties model also had huge 
success on the race track, which helped to cement the company’s reputation for producing first-class performance cars.

To celebrate the arrival of 
the Cayman R, we’ve pitted it against this classic. Will it be able to live up to the legend of its race-winning grandparent?

For an alternative review of the latest Porsche Cayman visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk

What Next

For more breaking car news and reviews, subscribe to Auto Express magazine. We'll give you 6 issues for £1 and a free gift!

< Previous   Next >

Sponsored Results

1 Comment

Relevance?

As interesting as this is, comparing a new car with a 50 year old one, it would probably be more relevant to compare it with the car it really replaces which was the 968 Clubsport with optional sports chassis?

By JakeBtn on 12 May, 2011, 10:23am

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.



Sponsored Results

Social Bookmarks

Full Car Reviews

Porsche 904 tracking

Porsche 904

Agile handling and sharp steering made lightweight legend a track star
Porsche Cayman R front track

Porsche Cayman R

Faster, lighter version of sensational coupé promises maximum driving thrills
- Advertisement -

Sponsored Results

Facts and Figures

Verdict

In terms of numbers produced, the 904 is only a small part of Porsche’s history. Yet it notched up countless wins on the track, and inspired many of the company’s racers, such as the 917.
Today, the mid-engined, stripped-out closed coupé concept lives on in the Cayman R. With its sharpened chassis, the newcomer delivers unrivalled driving fun. Performance gains over the S are minor, but it’s more agile, has better traction and delivers a stream of feedback through its perfectly weighted controls. For some, the firm ride and price premium will make the existing S the better everyday choice. But for the enthusiast, the Cayman R takes one of the most beautifully balanced driver’s cars to the next level. Engaging motoring doesn’t get better than this. Unless, of course, you are one of the fortunate few who can afford to own an original 904!
 
Find Used Cars

Find your Porsche Cayman with our used car search.

Find Used Cars
- Advertisement -