Skip advert
Advertisement

Used Porsche Cayman vs New Audi TTS

Sports cars: Thrilling Porsche Cayman and Audi TTS coupes go head-to-head

The latest Audi TT is the best version yet. Combining cutting-edge styling with genuine thrills and one of the best cabins around, this classy coupe is crammed full of ‘must have’ appeal. This is particularly true of the flagship TTS, which boasts a powerful 296bhp 2.0-litre turbo that’s hooked up to the brand’s quattro all-wheel-drive transmission. But is it a better bet than the sublime Cayman S?

Advertisement - Article continues below

Best sports cars on the market

With its howling, naturally aspirated, flat-six motor, perfectly balanced mid-engined layout and immersive driving experience, the Porsche still sets the sports car standard. A new Cayman S will set you back at least £50,000, but delve into the classifieds and you’ll find plenty of lightly used two-year-old models for around £40,000, which is almost exactly the same amount of cash as a new TTS.

When it comes to visual impact, first blood goes to the Audi. This third-generation TT is arguably the most distinctive and dynamic yet, thanks in no small part to its eye-catching blend of soft curves and sharp creases. TTS models add head-turning LED lights, 19-inch alloys and purposeful quad-exit exhausts.

By comparison, the Porsche looks a little low-key. The car in our pictures is an entry-level Cayman, but apart from the single centre-exit exhaust it’s visually identical to the S. With its low-slung stance, air vents cut into the back wings and retractable rear spoiler, the Porsche isn’t short of sporty design cues; it just doesn’t have the drama of the bold TT.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

CR-V

2023 Honda

CR-V

40,439 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £23,795
View CR-V
CR-V

2023 Honda

CR-V

28,316 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £20,995
View CR-V
CX-5

2023 Mazda

CX-5

37,361 milesAutomaticDiesel2.2L

Cash £22,799
View CX-5
T-Cross

2023 Volkswagen

T-Cross

31,851 milesManualPetrol1.0L

Cash £14,249
View T-Cross

A similar theme continues inside, where the Cayman lacks the Audi’s ‘wow factor’. The Porsche’s low-set driving position and five-dial layout put the driver at the centre of the action, while the build quality and materials are both first-rate. Yet it all feels a little sombre compared to the daringly styled TT’s interior.

Advertisement - Article continues below

As with the Porsche, the Audi’s fit and finish are straight out of the top drawer, but this feeling of solidity is matched to some real design flair. One highlight is the clever Virtual Cockpit set-up. This replaces the traditional dials with a 12.3-inch TFT screen, allowing you to fully customise your display.

Of course, these attention-grabbing coupes need the substance to match their style – and it’s here the Porsche turns the tables on the TT. From the moment the Cayman’s flat-six bursts noisily into life, you know you’re in for a treat. Search out a car with a sports exhaust and you’ll be treated to a spine-tingling howl as the 3.4-litre unit races towards the red line. The low-rev performance isn’t as strong as the Audi’s, but once the engine climbs past 4,000rpm the car really flies.

• Best sports coupes to buy now

Yet it’s the Porsche’s performance in corners that really stands out. The steering isn’t as fast as the Audi’s, but its deliciously spot-on and dripping with feedback. There’s also limpet-like grip, excellent body control and sublime balance – you can subtly alter the car’s line using the throttle alone. Other highlights include the precise, short-throw gearchange and powerful, progressive brakes. Optional adaptive dampers give a comfortable ride, too.

Advertisement - Article continues below
Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

The Audi gets configurable suspension settings as standard, but it’s not enough to give it the edge here when it comes to driver satisfaction. That said, the current TTS is one of the most entertaining Audis of recent years. Underpinned by the brand’s light and strong MQB platform, the coupe feels remarkably light on its feet. Quick steering, a positive turn-in and strong composure inspire confidence, while the combination of four-wheel-drive traction and turbocharged torque allows the car to fire out of corners with a ferocity the Cayman can’t match.

And while the Audi’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit can’t match the Porsche’s for noise and drama, it’s a brutally effective performer, launching the TTS from 0-62mph in only 4.9 seconds (4.6 for cars with the S tronic twin-clutch box). Not only is the TT a stronger performer, it’s a little more practical, too. There’s a decent 305-litre load bay under the rear hatch, while the back seats are perfect for small children, or adults on short journeys. The Porsche, meanwhile, is a strict two-seater. It benefits from a 275-litre boot at the rear and a further 150 litres of space in the nose.

Neither car can be run on a shoestring, but the Audi boasts lower CO2 emissions and stronger economy, plus parts and servicing will be cheaper. It also gets more standard kit. Yet in the final reckoning the Porsche’s poise, noise and involving driving dynamics are worth the extra outlay. The TT is stylish, fast and composed, but it simply doesn’t feel as special and engaging as the bewitching Cayman.

• Best new car deals

Specifications

Model:Porsche Cayman S
Price:from £40,000
Engine:3.4-litre flat-six petrol, 320bhp 
0-62mph:5.0 seconds 
Economy/CO2:31.4mpg/211g/km 
Road tax:£290 
   
Model:Audi TTS 
Price:from £39,245
Engine:2.0-litre 4cyl petrol, 296bhp 
0-62mph:4.9 seconds 
Economy/CO2:39.7mpg/168g/km 
Road tax:£205 

Used vs new

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,655 off RRP*Used from £15,700
Omoda 5

Omoda 5

RRP £23,990Avg. savings £2,192 off RRP*Used from £20,921
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,763 off RRP*Used from £11,895
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £37,230Avg. savings £3,710 off RRP*Used from £14,650
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Car Deal of the Day: 10k miles a year in Cupra’s Terramar for under £300 a month
Cupra Terramar - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: 10k miles a year in Cupra’s Terramar for under £300 a month

The Cupra Terramar is an appealing family SUV that looks stylish but offers plenty of practicality. It’s our Deal of the Day for July 5
News
5 Jul 2025
New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life
Volvo XC60 facelift - front tracking

New Volvo XC60 2025 facelift review: big-selling SUV gets a new lease of life

This refreshed Swedish SUV focuses on familiar areas of strength to take on BMW and Audi
Road tests
4 Jul 2025
Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month
MG ZS - front cornering

Car Deal of the Day: MG ZS gives a big SUV feel for a miniscule £194 a month

The MG ZS is an easy car to like and live with. It’s our Deal of the Day for 3 July
News
3 Jul 2025