Anyone who lamented the engine switch when Porsche introduced the 718 Cayman in 2016 will be happy to know that the 2020 model 718 Cayman will have a flat six-cylinder engine running the show, instead of the turbocharged four. The newly developed four-liter boxer in Porsche’s new mid-engine sports car based on the current 911 Carrera engine and puts out 414 horsepower and 309 foot-pounds of torque — with a redline of 8,000 RPMs. In further good news, for those who prefer a manual transmission at least, the Cayman will only come with a six-speed manual option.
In addition to the new engine, Porsche has put considerable effort into improved aerodynamics, particularly with the Cayman’s 50 percent improvement in downforce. A redesign of the exhaust created more space for a diffuser under the rear, accounting for 30 percent of the downforce gain, while the fixed rear wing redesign lends an extra 20 percent.
The powerful engine, plus the aerodynamic improvements, result in a 718 that can go from a standstill to 60 miles an hour in 4.2 seconds, topping out at 188 miles an hour. These are speeds that may make you want to take advantage of the Clubsport package, which includes a steel roll cage, fire extinguisher and a six-point seat belt.
